VOLUNTEERS are being called on have their "voices heard" about issues at the heart of the NHS.

The NHS Darlington Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is on the lookout to recruit new members to their Community Council, which includes roles helping to shape and deliver new servies in the area.

The Community Council is overseen by Healthwatch Darlington on behalf of the CCG and it hosts bi-monthly Tea and Tell sessions giving members of the public a chance to get involved.

The informal meetings are held in community venues across the town and gives residents an opportunity to have their say on the CCG's decision-making processes when making changes to health services.

The Darlington CCG was established in October 2011 and is made up of 11 member GP practices. It covers a total population of more than 100,000 people living in the Darlington Borough Council area.

The Council is chaired by Michelle Thompson, lay member for patient and public engagement, at Darlington CCG.

She said: “It is vital patients remain at the heart of the NHS and the Community Council is a perfect opportunity to have your voice heard.

“If you are enthusiastic and care about the NHS, we would love to hear from you.

"It is a great chance to represent the voice of others, especially those from seldom heard communities.

“We are looking for volunteers of all ages and backgrounds, so please do not hesitate to sign up.

“I very much look forward to welcoming new members."

Members of the council are also responsible for feeding back decisions made by the CCG governing body to patients, carers and the wide public in the borough of Darlington.

As well as volunteers being able to influence decision making alongside the CCG, they are involved in helping the group to raise awareness of NHS campaigns.

The role also entails the promotion of opportunities for patients to talk about their experiences and where they believe improvements can be made on the services they have used.

The Community Council meets monthly – one month at the Tea and Tell session where the public are invited to discuss their views, followed by a meeting with the CCG.

Travel expenses are covered for volunteers.

Anyone interested in volunteering with the NHS Community Council in Darlington can contact Rachel McCabe at Healthwatch Darlington on 01325-380145.

Alternatively, visit darlingtonccg.nhs.uk