PEOPLE living in Stockton borough are being asked to help the North Tees Primary Care Trust (PCT) make decisions about how health care is provided, or to let their voice be heard about specific issues.

The PCT is using NHS Week 2002 to launch a leaflet asking members of the public either to join committees and working groups on health, or to become a network member who can be used as a sounding board on health issues by the PCT.

Richard Nicholson, PCT chairman, said: "We know that our local health service is important to everyone, and especially to those who may be patients or carers themselves, or who may already be voluntary workers in one of the many health and social care activities.

"We are keen to hear the views of those who live in Stockton, Billingham, Thornaby, Eaglescliffe and Yarm.

"We hope by joining us in this way, and perhaps giving us a different outlook on how services might be run, our local NHS will become even more pertinent to the people of North Tees."

For anyone wishing to become involved an application form is being attached to the leaflet, which is being distributed over the next few weeks.

They will be available in libraries, GP surgeries, voluntary organisations and hospital waiting areas.

Alternatively the PCT can be contacted on (01642) 352297.