VOLUNTEERS to help influence decisions on local health services are being sought by the NHS.

The NHS Darlington Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), which shapes health services in the area, wants to recruit new members to its Community Council to help bring the public in and hear their views.

The Community Council, run by Healthwatch Darlington on behalf of the CCG, hosts bi – monthly ’Tea and Tell’ sessions held in venues across Darlington.

The sessions offer a chance for members of the public to get involved in decisions,

Members are also responsible for feeding back decisions made by the CCG Governing Body to local patients, carers and the public.

Volunteers also play a key role helping the CCG raise awareness of NHS campaigns and promote opportunities for patients to get involved in engagement events to improve local services.

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."

Volunteers' travel expenses are covered.

For more information contact Rachel McCabe at Healthwatch Darlington on 01325-380145.