PATIENT watchdogs in the region have sounded an optimistic note, despite plans for their abolition being confirmed last week.

The Government wants to reform how patients interests are represented and last week the new NHS Reform and Health Care Professions Bill was approved by the House of Lords.

Community Health Councils, which have been an integral part of the NHS since 1974, have fought tooth-and-nail to protect patients' rights and the Government has recognised their concerns by changing their proposals.

Peter Walsh, director of the Association of CHCs, said the Government had made "very substantial concessions" which means that the replacement Patient Forums - which will be based in the new Primary Care Trusts - have the potential to preserve the independence of the old CHCs.

Andrew Dewsnip, chairman of Harrogate and District CHC, said: "I am glad the uncertainty is now over and that the Government has gradually, albeit reluctantly, accepted the validity of our arguments."

Graham Girvan, chief officer of Darlington and Teesdale CHC, said: "The date of abolition has not yet been announced and is unlikely to be before April next year. So for all the individuals and groups that are in touch with us, it's business as usual."

Health week success

LAST week's first-ever Men's Health Week will definitely be repeated next year, according to Sedgefield-born therapist Richard O'Neill, pictured with junior health minister Hazel Blears MP at the London launch.

"It was a wonderful week, we had nearly 400 men's health projects up and down the country and we are hoping to do more next year," said Richard, who now lives in Bury, Lancashire.