The NHS Constitution explains that by working together we can make the most of NHS funds to improve our health and wellbeing. It reaffirms that everyone has a role to play in the success of the NHS.
Rights and responsibilities
According to the NHS Constitution, it is part of the duty and responsibility of health and social care providers to take into account the views of those in their care. All organisations providing NHS care in England (including private and third party organisations) are required by law to consider the NHS constitution when making decisions and taking action.
Involvement in LINks can help health and social care professionals to meet their responsibilities and legal duties. LINks give them a chance to communicate with the people they care for, allowing them to make services more effective, responsive and in line with people’s wishes.
Everyone has a voice
The involvement of health and social care professionals in LINks is equally as important as the involvement of the public. Any health or social care professional can be involved in a LINk, as long as any conflicts of interest are taken into account.
It’s up to the individual health or social care professional how and when they interact with their LINk. They might have discussions with a LINk about a particular service they're involved with, or one that they're working with their LINk on. Or they could be a full member, responding to questions or recommendations from the LINk, or taking part in a community discussion.
Health and social care professionals can increase participation by telling the people that they care for about LINks. Those who manage and commission health or social care services can work with their LINk to find out what members of the public want, so that services can be developed according to community needs.
Health or social care providers can also commission their LINk to look at issues that affect their service.
