LINk:MK at the Community Kiosk - Come and say Hello!
LINk:MK will be at the Community Kiosk in thecentre:mk on a number of dates this year. We will be promoting LINk:MK, talking to members of the public about our work, and collecting issues and concerns. Do come along and say hello, or let your friends and family know - it's a great opportunity to meet the Support Team and some of our volunteers, and let us know about your recent experiences of Health and Social Care in Milton Keynes. You can find us at the kiosk on:
Monday 28th May 2012
Wednesday 20th June 2012
Thursday 12th July 2012
Wednesday 12th September 2012
Wednesday 21st November 2012
Monday 3rd December 2012
Monday 28th May 2012
Wednesday 20th June 2012
Thursday 12th July 2012
Wednesday 12th September 2012
Wednesday 21st November 2012
Monday 3rd December 2012
Volunteers needed for Channel 4 series on pregnancy and parenting
12/04/2013Healthwatch Milton Keynes have been approached by Twenty Twenty Productions,one of the UK's leading production companies making innovative, BAFTA award-winning programmes including The Choir with Gareth Malone (BBC2, to find volunteers who would like to take part in new series for Channel 4 about pregnancy and parenting. They are looking to follow the stories of a diverse range of parents-to-be who may have some additional needs or face challenges when having a baby. The series will challenge misconceptions and celebrate triumphs and capabilities, as well as reflecting the day to day realities of parenting......
If you, or anyone you know, fits the criteria and would be interested in finding out more, please contact the Healthwatch Milton Keynes Support Team who can put you in touch with the production manager to discuss further.
Milton Keynes Older Persons' Forum - PUBLIC MEETING
12/04/2013Milton Keynes Older Persons Forum will be holding a Public Meeting which looks at HOW WILL CHANGES TO HEALTH SERVICES AFFECT YOU?
Guest speakers are Dr Nicola Smith, Chair of MK Clinical Commissioning Group, Alan Hastings, Chair of Management Group, HealthWatch Milton Keynes and Mick Hancock, Assistant Director Joint Commissioning, MK Health & Wellbeing Board.
The meeting is on Friday, 19th April 2013 at 2:00pm at the Guildhall at Christ the Cornerstone
Saxon Gate, Central Milton Keynes and will be chaired by Jan Lloyd, Older Persons' Champion and Chair, Milton Keynes Older Persons' Forum.
Care Quality Commission reports for services in Milton Keynes
22/03/2013The Care Quality Commission (CQC) have recently published the following reports which relate to services in Milton Keynes. As always, these are available in the Documents section of our website, or via the CQC website.
ABI Support Services at Oxley Park
ABI Support Services at Oxley Park
Freemantle Trust at Fishermead and Downs Barn
Freemantle Trust at Fishermead
Dovecote Manor Health Care
Dovecote Manor Health Care
Bletchley Dental Practice
Bletchley Dental Practice
Dentalworks by Shaz and Associates
Dental Works by Shaz and Associates
Welcome to Healthwatch Milton Keynes
14/03/2013All members should have received their newsletter over Easter introducing Healthwatch Milton Keynes,the expanded remit, and information about membership. The newsletter is also available here electronically for you to pass on to family, friends and colleagues.
Newsletter 14 LINk to Healthwatch Edition, March 2013_(1177K)
You may have noticed that the website has started to change - the new address is www.healthwatchmiltonkeynes.co.uk
Please contact the Support Team if you have any questions..
Patient Led Assessments of the Care Environment (PLACE) - patient assessors needed
22/03/2013Patient Led Assessments of the Care Environment (PLACE)take place across hospitals, hospices and independent treatment centres providing NHS care, and information from patient assessors is used to report how well the organisation is doing against national standards and other hospitals.
Healthwatch Milton Keynes have been invited to nominate up to 13 volunteers for PLACE audits across a number of organisations over the next few months.
PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE...
Dementia Care - Learning from best practice
14/03/2013This conference on March 21st is aimed at anyone working with dementia sufferers and is open to staff (paid or voluntary) working with dementia sufferers across Milton Keynes.Please contact the LINk:MK Support Team for full details including how to book.
Health Needs Assessment Questionnaire of the Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities
14/03/2013LINK:MK would like to remind you about a Health Needs Assessment Questionaire looking at the Health Needs Assessment of the Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities in Milton Keynes for the National Health Service, (NHS) Milton Keynes and Milton Keynes Council. This is a review of the health issues facing these communities, the results of which will help the NHS Milton Keynes to set priorities and plan better services.
BME HEALTH
The Stroke Patient/Carer Peer Group
14/03/2013Have you survived a Stroke or are caring for someone who has survived a Stroke within the past year.... would you be prepared to pass on your experiences, good or bad, to help others who may be unfortunate enough to suffer a Stroke?
If so the local Patient/Carer Stroke Peer Group would love to hear from you.
The group meets regularly meets every two months on a Thursday afternoon.
If you would like further information please contact the LINk:MK support office on 01908 266696 or email us directly for further information at linkmk@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk
Final Call for Endoscopy Focus Group
08/03/2013LINk:MK are hosting an Endoscopy Focus Group on March 18th. We are asking for patients / carers who have experience of the Endoscopy Services at the Milton Keynes hospital to come and share their opinions and suggestions to help improve the service for the future.Please contact the Support Team if you would like to attend or for more information on 01908 266696 oe linkmk@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk
Francis Report
08/03/2013A number of members and participants have asked us to direct them to where they could read the Francis Report. The full report and an executive summary can both be found at
Francis Report
However, there is also some slides from Robert Francis's talk at The King's Fund conference on 27 February 2013, which may be of interest. Follow the link below to see these.
Francis Report Slides
Signtranslate at Urgent Care Service
01/03/2013We are delighted to let you know that Signtranslate has just been installed and is up and running at the Urgent Care Service as a result of the LINk;MK project. Signtranslate, though designed originally for use with BSL users, can also be used for translating other spoken languages. Please pass on this good news so that as many patients as possible know this service is available (and to ask for it) if they need it.
Patient Representation Opportunity – Infection Prevention and Control Committee, Milton Keynes Hospital
07/03/2013We have been asked to provide patient representative to join the Infection Prevention and Control Committee at MK Hospital. The committee is the main forum for discussions concerning changes to policy and practice relating to infection prevention and control. The patient representative opportunity is part of the ongoing engagement of the Hospital with the local community to promote a greater understanding of those actions that underpin clean, safe care in hospital and beyond.....
Milton Keynes Community Health Services
01/03/2013As we announced previously, on April 1st the management of Milton Keynes Community Health Services (MKCHS) will transfer to Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL.
Patients should not notice any change as the transfer will not affect the care or treatment provided by the staff of MKCHS, but it will allow our local community and mental health services to enjoy all the benefits of being part of a bigger organisation, while maintaining a focus on local provision.
Patients will also have a greater say in the way those services are operated. CNWL is a Foundation Trust - a type of NHS organisation that involves service users, carers, the public and staff in the way it is run.
For more information, follow the link to the MKCHS website
Linden and Oakwood House announcement
01/03/2013The residential rehabilitation services for Mental Health and Learning Disability are changing. The services affected by the changes are Oakwood House (in Wavendon Gate) and Linden (in Stony Stratford). Please see this document for full information.
Joint Strategic Needs Assessment Consultation
07/03/2013A couple of weeks ago we announced the MK Council consultation for the JSNA. An executive summary had been produced and the full draft document is now ready and included on the council website.
Milton Keynes Council and Milton Keynes Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) have a joint responsibility to produce a JSNA for the borough. The JSNA is a local assessment of current and future health and wellbeing needs for the local area.
Follow the link to find out more about this document and submit your comments.
MKC Consultation
Age UK campaigns team needs volunteers for a national project
07/03/2013The Age UK campaigns team is turning its attention to the issue of unmet need regarding social care in England. Currently 800,000 people with high needs go without any formal support. They are in need of case studies to help illustrate this issue.
Can you help?
Do you have a recent experience of discharge from hospital?
08/03/2013LINk:MK collect patient feedback, in many different ways and use this to monitor trends and identify where services need to improve. Recently, we have recieved an increased nmber of issues about discharge from hospital or transfer of care. We would like to ask members and participants whether they have had any recent experiences that they could tell us about?
Signtranslate at Urgent Care Service
01/03/2013You will be aware that as part of our project "Accessing Health and Social Care for the Deaf and Hearing Impaired", LINk:MK organised demonstrations of Signtranslate (online translating system) and recommended that Health and Social Care Providers have this at all premises, particularly those dealing with urgent appointments. We are delighted to let you know that Signtranslate has just been installed and is up and running at the Urgent Care Service as a result of this project. Signtranslate, though designed originally for use with BSL users, can also be used for translating other spoken languages. Please pass on this good news so that as many patients as possible know this service is available (and to ask for it) if they need it.
CQC Inspection Reports for Milton Keynes
21/02/2013The Care Quality Commission have recently published a number of inspection reports for services in our area. You can view all of these on their website by following this link
More patients and carers welcome on Endoscopy Project
07/02/2013Opportunities to have your say on Endoscopy Services.....
Wheelchair and Community Equipment Service - User feedback needed
06/02/2013Opportunities to have your say on Wheelchair and Community Equipment Services...
Healthwatch Milton Keynes Host Organisation Announced
01/03/2013We promised to keep you all informed about LINk:MK's transition to Healthwatch Milton Keynes and you will remember the consultation that took place last summer for views on hosting options. Today we are pleased to let you know that Age UK Milton Keynes has been chosen (via Milton Keynes Councils procurement process) to be the host organisation supporting Healthwatch Milton Keynes from April 1st.
Joint Strategic Needs Assessment - What do you think?
21/02/2013MK Council and MK Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) have a joint responsibility to produce a JSNA for the borough. The JSNA is a local assessment of current and future health and wellbeing needs for the local area; it contains both qualitative and quantitative data and is published on the MKi Observatory.
The council would like to know if the JSNA is clear and understandable or if they have missed anything.
Please visit http://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/mkcconsultation to provide feedback.
The closing date for feedback is 12 April 2013.
If you have any questions regarding the JSNA please do not hesitate to email cwcomms@milton-keynes.gov.uk.
Parkinsons Training - MKHFT need volunteers
14/02/2013LINk:MK have been asked to let you know that the Post Grad Centre at MK Hospital is looking for people with Parkinson's to volunteer to be examined by junior doctors as part of their training programme. This will take place at the Hospital Post Grad Centre on Saturday 2nd March between 10am and 4pm. Lunch will be provided. Details, including arrangements for reimbursing travel expenses, are available from Clare Jelly on 01908 243993
British Thyroid Foundation Events
14/02/2013The Milton Keynes branch of the BTF hold regular events with professional speakers for anyone who is newly diagnosed or has a long standing thyroid condition. For further information you can visit their website at www.thyroidmk.co.uk, or contact Wilma on 01908 330290.
Health Needs Assessment Questionaire
14/02/2013LINK:MK have been asked to inform you about the Health Needs Assessment Questionaire.
The Questionaire is looking at the Health Needs Assessment of the Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities in Milton Keynes for the National Health Service (NHS) Milton Keynes and Milton Keynes Council. This is a review of the health issues facing these communities, the results of which will help the NHS Milton Keynes to set priorities and plan better services.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MKBlackandMinorityEthnicCommunitiesHealthNeedsAssessment
Ophthalmology Commissioning Steering Group – Vacancy for Patient Representation
14/02/2013We have a vacancy for patient representation on the Ophthalmology Commissioning Steering Group with the objective of aiding the Ophthalmology Commissioning Programme, that aims to achieve continuing improvements in the quality of services brought in by important service changes. The steering group has been operating since late 2011.
Patient Participation Group LINk:MK Network Event
07/02/2013LINk:MK are hosting the PPG / LINk:MK Network Event on Thursday February 28th. The event starts at 5.15pm (with light refreshments, and the agenda running from 5.30pm)at the Peartree Centre (AGE UK).
As you may be aware, these events happen around 4 times a year and are open to all patients and public in Milton Keynes who are part of, or interested in, their Patient Participation Group, and are intended as a platform for attendees to share ideas and experiences as well as learning about local health and care in general, and any changes that may effect them.
There is no need to book, but for catering purposes it is helpful to have an idea of numbers. For more information please contact the Support Team on 01908 266696 or linkmk@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk
Dignity Champions Network Workshop
14/02/2013A Dignity Champions Network Workshop to look at
Ensuring Dignity in Care for People with Dementia is being hosted by Milton Keynes Community Health Services.
The Stroke Patient/Carer Peer Group
07/02/2013Have you survived a Stroke or are caring for someone who has survived a Stroke within the past year.... would you be prepared to pass on your experiences, good or bad, to help others who may be unfortunate enough to suffer a Stroke?
If so the local Patient/Carer Stroke Peer Group would love to hear from you.
If you would like further information please contact the LINk:MK support office
111 Non-emergency Number
07/02/2013Thank you to all members and participants who took part in the Mass Call Event we told you about last week to test the 111 Non Emergency number prior to launch.
A full briefing and Frequently Asked Questions (from the NHS Communications and Public Engagement Team) is now available on our website at
www.miltonkeyneslink.co.uk/linkmk-site/displayarticle.asp?ID=90361
Transfer of Care Focus Groups - A Huge Success
05/02/2013The Transfer of Care Focus Groups held on Monday were a great success with fourteen members giving their feedback on how services could be improved. LINk:MK look forward to bringing you details of the resulting actions in our newsletter and annual report in March.
The next meeting is planned for Tuesday 9th April, please contact us if you would like further information or would like to share your experiences in the next group.
**Diabetes UK - Annual General Meeting 2013
05/02/2013Diabetes UK, Milton Keynes Group is holding its next meeting which is also the Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 12th February 2013 from 7.45pm to 9:00 pm.
The guest speakers for the evening are Lesley Scott & Julie Petzing from MK Diabetes Care.
The meeting will be held at Peartree Centre, 1 Chadds Lane, Peartree Bridge, Milton Keynes, MK6 3EB
For further information please contact miltonkeynes.diabetesukgroup.org/
**Shelter Milton Keynes Proposed Closure
05/02/2013Following huge cuts to Legal Aid in England, Shelter reluctantly decided not to bid for new legal aid contracts as from April 2013 in eight of the current areas where it provides local advice, one of these areas being Milton Keynes. As a result it is now proposed that our Milton Keynes service will close.
CANCELLATION - PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP NETWORK
03/01/2013We are sorry we had to cancel this weeks PPG Network Event which was due to take place on Thursday January 24th. We contacted all members by email, telephone and post to notify that the meeting could not go ahead due to the weather conditions. It is important to LINk:MK that meetings are as accessible as possible for all members, and unfortunately on this occasion the weather has made the car park, and approaching area, at the Peatree Centre very unsafe and the forecast is for more ice and fog.
The event has been re-scheduled for Thursday February 28th and the agenda will be the same, so we hope you will be able to join us on that evening instead.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender? Living in Milton Keynes?
17/01/2013Make sure your opinions on Health and Social Care are heard.
You can tell us by visiting the LINk:MK stand at the LGBT General Assembly on 26th January 2013.
Endoscopy Project more patient feedback required
21/12/2012We are pleased to let you know that we have had expressions of interest from members who have come forward to get involved in this new project looking at Endoscopy Services at Milton Keynes Hospital. However, we need more patients and carers of patients who have visited the endoscopy unit at Milton Keynes Hospital in the past year to help evaluate these services in order to make improvements.
Do you want to help improve Mental Health Services in Milton Keynes ?
17/01/2013The Mental Health Transitioning programme are running a series of forums for input from patients and carers to share their experiences and help improve services.
The first forum will be held on Thursday 7th February 2013 commencing at 6pm and finishing at 8pm. This forum will be discussing Understanding the Care Planning Approach.
Can you help us with a pre-launch test?
04/02/2013Follow the link to our website to find out how to take part...and don't forget, if you're not available to take part, you can pass this information on to family, friends, colleagues, your own members or other contacts!
www.miltonkeyneslink.co.uk/linkmk-site/displayarticle.asp?ID=90656
New 111 service
04/02/2013**Are you aware there will be a new NHS 111 phone number, which is being introduced for when you need medical help fast, but it's not a 999 emergency?
You may have heard about this new service, which will be launched in Milton Keynes this year.
www.miltonkeyneslink.co.uk/linkmk-site/displayarticle.asp?ID=90656
Special notice to all LINk:MK members and partcipants.......
04/02/2013**Are you aware there will be a new NHS 111 phone number, which is being introduced for when you need medical help fast, but it's not a 999 emergency?
You may have heard about this new service, which will be launched in Milton Keynes this year.
Prior to the launch, the local NHS wants to test that calls will be routed correctly, and has announced a Mass Call Event (this Wednesday!)which they have asked LINk:MK to help with. LINk:MK is therefore asking members and participants if they would like to get involved and test the service.
Please follow this link to our website for full details of what to do!
(url "www.miltonkeyneslink.co.uk/linkmk-site/displayarticle.asp?ID=90656 ")
Care Quality Commission - Inspection Reports
31/01/2013The Care Quality Commission (CQC) this week have released the following reports as part of their scheduled planned reviews.
Bletchley Community Hospital
Caretech Community Services - Normandy House
Barchester Healthcare
BMI - The Saxon Clinic
Neath Hill Care Centre
Neath Hill Dental Practice
Thames Valley Ambulance and Paramedic Services Ltd.
To view the reports in full please visit our website and these can be found www.miltonkeyneslink.co.uk/linkmk-documents/displayarticle.asp?ID=89097
FINAL REMINDER TRANSFER OF CARE FOCUS GROUPS
03/01/2013Do You Have Any Suggestions as a Patient or Carer on how Patient Experience Can be improved ?
During admission to and from discharge that could help shape the future of services at Milton Keynes Hospital?
The focus group will meet on Monday 4th February.
There are both morning and afternoon sessions available - please contact the LINk:MK Support Team for information if you would like to get involved on 01908 266696, or linkmk@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk
MKSCB Lay Members Applications - Closing Date Extended
16/01/2013Milton Keynes Safeguarding Children Board (MKSCB) has extended its closing date to select two local residents to become lay members on the Board.
The MKSCB is a multi-agency Board which agrees how services and professionals in Milton Keynes should work together to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
Care Quality Commission Reports
24/01/2013The Care Quality Commission (CQC) this week have released the following reports as part of their scheduled planned reviews.
Burlington Hall Care Home
Redspot Homecare Milton Keynes (Homecare and Supported Living)
Butterflies Dental Clinic
The Dental Surgery Stony Stratford
Disabilities Trust - 11 Twyford Lane, Browns Wood, Milton Keynes
To view the reports in full please visit: www.cqc.org.uk
Patient on top of the world with new heart device.
16/01/2013**Milton Keynes Hospital Press Release**
Milton Keynes Hospital fitted its first ever advanced heart device this week and the patient is feeling on top of the world.
Tim Percival, 74, was suffering from heart failure and was chosen as the first Milton Keynes patient to receive a bi-ventricular defibrillator. In the past, patients have needed to travel to Oxford for this surgery.
www.miltonkeyneslink.co.uk/linkmk-news/displayarticle.asp?ID=90847
Health Committee report of the Care Quality Commission
10/01/2013The Health Committee is appointed by the House of Commons to examine the policy, administration and expenditure, of the Department of Health and its associated bodies, including the CQC. It has just released a report from the second annual accountability hearing held with the regulator - you may have heard about this is tne national news, and if you are interested in the full findings, the report can be found via this link
www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmselect/cmhealth/592/59202.htm
Care Quality Commission Report of Milton Keynes Hospital
17/01/2013The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has released a report of Milton Keynes Hospital on its findings from a review conducted in August 2012 as part of their routine schedule of planned reviews.
To read the document please follow the link:
www.miltonkeyneslink.co.uk/linkmk-news/displayarticle.asp?ID=90873
Diabetes UK Launch New Campaign - 4 Ts of Type 1 diabetes
16/01/2013LINk would like to advise our members that Diabetes UK have launched a new campaign entitled
4 Ts of Type 1 diabetes.
As many as one in four children and young people are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when they are in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical attention.
miltonkeynes.diabetesukgroup.org/home/home.asp
Care Quality Commission Report of Milton Keynes Hospital
17/01/2013Care Quality Commission (CQC) has released a report of Milton Keynes Hospital on its findings from a review conducted in August 2012 as part of their routine schedule of planned reviews.
Patient “on top of the world” with new heart device - Milton Keynes Hospital Press Release
16/01/2013Milton Keynes Hospital fitted its first ever advanced heart device this week – and the patient is feeling “on top of the world”.
Tim Percival, 74, was suffering from heart failure and was chosen as the first Milton Keynes patient to receive a bi-ventricular defibrillator. In the past, patients have needed to travel to Oxford for this surgery.
Tim, who had his surgery on Monday (January 7), said: “I couldn't walk from the wheelchair to the bed. I'd be gasping for air. I couldn't lay down and had to sit in a chair to sleep. It was touch and go. At one point I'd been given a five to 20 per cent chance to live.
“I feel good now – in fact I feel on top of the world at the moment. It's a wonderful feeling.”
Milton Keynes Hospital decided to start the procedures almost a year ago, and since then staff have been busy preparing, learning to use the new equipment and training for the change. The device was installed by cardiology consultant Raj Khiani, who has previously fitted them for Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital. With the service now up-and-running, Milton Keynes Hospital expects to be giving 60 local patients bi-ventricular defibrillators each year.
Dr Khiani said: “These devices can prolong life, and also improve quality of life. We are really pleased that we'll now be able to help patients locally.
“It has been a real step up in the skills of our nursing staff – they've had more advanced training, a stronger skill mix and more experience. The team did exceptionally well. It's good for patients, it's good for the team and its good for the hospital.”
Tim was full of praise for Dr Khiani – who he called “the king pin” - and the “fantastic” staff.
He said: “They deserve a medal for all they do. I can't press home enough how fantastic they've been. This is the best hospital I've been to.
“There were so many people, but they never got in each other's way. It was so well organised. They all know what they are doing and they work so hard here.
“I wasn't worried about being the first - they'd taken me through what was going to happen at least three times. They were very thorough.
“It's been fantastic. It's been a bit like being on holiday. Even the food is pukka! Not once have I had anything to complain about. Absolutely amazing.”
He is now looking forward to getting stronger over the coming months. He explained: “I've not been able to play with the kids for the last two years – I've a three and a two-year-old. I'm hoping to be able to do that. Family comes first.”
Fact file - bi-ventricular defibrillator
Defibrillators will be a familiar sight to most people from medical dramas – where the doctor places paddles or pads on a patient's chest and give a shock to return the heart to its normal rhythm. Implanted defibrillators work in the same way, but being connected to the heart, they detect as soon as the heart beat gets dangerously fast or slow and trigger automatically.
For patients with heart failure, there is also a risk that the contractions of the right and left chambers of the heart can fall out of sync. This results in not enough blood being pumped around the body. So in the biventricular defibrillator, there is also a lead inserted into to the coronary sinus vein at the back of the heart, which makes the ventricles contract at the same time and keeps the heart pumping in sync, improving the efficiency of the heart as a pump.
MK Community Health Services News
10/01/2013You may have seen in the local press that Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) has been chosen as the preferred acquirer for Milton Keynes Community Health Services (MKCHS).
MKCHS provides services such as occupational health, podiatry, speech therapy,mental health services, health visiting, etc, in the community, and previously worked as an arm-length independent body to MK Primary Care Trust. In line with Department of Health policy to create commissioning only PCT's, MKCHS then transferred under the legal umbrella of Bedford Hospital NHS Trust as a temporary measure.
While NHS Milton Keynes has been responsible for making the decision, the process has involved stakeholders including a patient representative from LINk:MK.
www.mkchs.nhs.uk/default.asp?ContentID=7221
LINk:MK Latest Newsletter
05/12/2012Please find attached our latest newsletter, which is hot off the press.
Clinicial Commissioning Group Release Update on Healthier Together Programme
03/01/2013Continuing to bring you information on the local Healthier Together Programme across the south east midlands, you may be interested to read an update release on behalf of the five clinical commissioning groups published on our website.
Award for LINk:MK
19/10/2012
LINk:MK are delighted to have been presented with an “Award of Excellence” by Milton Keynes Equality Council and MKFM in the Diamond Jubilee Equality and Diversity Awards 2012
Diagram from DoH
10/12/2012The Department of Health has issued this diagram of the health care system from April 1st, 2013, Healthcare System Diagram - DoH
Notes can be found by following this linkDoH Notes
Care Quality Commission - Statement of Care Report
11/12/2012The Care Quality Commission have released a Statement of Care Report, please find attached a summary of the report.
Latest LINk:MK Newsletter
15/06/2012The latest LINk:MK newsletter is now available. Please contact the LINk:MK Support Team if you would like us to post one, or more, to you.
Newsletter 13 Winter 2012_(2512K)Newsletter 13 Winter 2012
New Project looking at the Wheel Chair Service and Integrated Community Equipment Service
03/01/2013Milton Keynes Council has approached LINk:MK for service user representation on a Project Board for the Wheelchair Service and Integrated Community Equipment Service. Ideally you will be either a wheelchair user or the carer of a person using a wheelchair.
Willen Hospice - Carers Newsletter Issue 3
21/12/2012Willen Hospice have released Carers Newsletter.
LINk:MK Representation Required for Milton Keynes Safeguarding Childrens Board (MKSCB)
21/12/2012We have been requested to provide two representatives on the Milton Keynes Safeguarding Childrens Board (MKSCB),to help build closer ties with the community.
We are pleased to confirm that we have a member who has come forward to represent LINk:MK on this board and are looking for the second representative to work along with them.
Transfer of Care - Focus Groups
05/12/2012Transfer of Care - Focus Groups.
LINk:MK will be hosting the next session of Focus Groups on Monday 4th February 2013.
Focus Group on Endoscopy Services
10/12/2012The Endoscopy Unit at Milton Keynes Hospital are planning to form a Focus Group in association with LINk:MK comprising of patients/service users and carers early in the New Year 2013.
Diagram from DoH
10/12/2012The Department of Health has issued this diagram of the health care system from April 1st, 2013, Healthcare System Diagram - DoH
Notes can be found by following this linkDoH Notes
Tell us Page
29/11/2012We would like to hear from you on any issues or ideas that you may have in heath and care services, your experience helps us monitor trends and improve service.
What Improvements in Healthcare would you like to see in 2013?
05/12/2012LINk:MK were at the Community Kiosk at the centre:mk this week asking people what their Christmas wish this year was for health care services?
LINk:MK Website - one year on....
19/10/2012"In October 2011, the total number of individual page views was 3257 (on this website). For the same period in 2012, this figure was 7739"
LINk:MK Receive 'Award of Excellence '
07/12/2012We are pleased to announce that LINk:MK won an Award of Excellence at the Equality Councils Diamond Jubilee Equality & Diversity Awards which were held on Thursday 6th December.
Useful LINks Page
07/12/2012We have updated our Useful LINks page please do let us know if your organisation working in health and social care would like their details to be added to this page.
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) - Patient and Public Involvement December 2012 Update
12/12/2012Please click below for the update
NICE December 2012 Update
Central South Ambulance Service - New Chief Operating Officer
29/11/2012Please follow this link for a press release.
Central South Ambulance Service Press Release
Milton Keynes Community Health Service -Survey Results
29/11/2012Please follow this link for a press release.
MKCHS Press Release
LINk 2 Health and Care Event Photos
29/11/2012We now have all the photos from this years LINk 2 Health and Care event on our website, follow the link to the photo gallery to view the photos in full.
New Executive Member for LINk:MK
29/11/2012LINk:MK are pleased to announce a new member on the Executive Committee. Amber Saunders was inspired to get involved as a result of ongoing engagement with MK Youth cabinet.
Amber has just attended her first Executive Committee Meeting in Novemeber, and will be introducing herself in the LINk:MK Newsletter, Winter edition.
LINk:MK In the Community
29/11/2012We will be at the Community Zone on Monday 3rd December from 10-2pm.
New Chief Executive for Milton Keynes Hospital
29/11/2012Please follow this link for a press release.
www.mkhospital.nhs.uk/news-and-media/news/255-new-chief-executive-for-milton-keynes-hospital
MK Centre for Integrated Living Annual General Meeting
01/11/2012MK CIL are holding their AGM on the 28th November 2012 at 2.00 pm in the Worship area of the Church of Christ the Cornerstone, Central Milton Keynes.
For more details, follow the link
www.mkweb.co.uk/MK_Disability/home.asp
LINk 2 Health and Care Event photos!
23/11/2012Nearly 400 photos, taken at the LINk 2 Health and Care Event, are now available to view on our website ! They can be found on the "Photo Gallery" page.
LINk 2 Health and Care Event 2012
CQC Inspection - Campbell Centre
22/11/2012The Care Quality Commission (CQC) have this week published a report following their inspection of the Campbell Centre. The full report can be found atCQC Campbell
For information, all CQC documents regarding services in Milton Keynes are in the CQC folder on our documents page. For all other reports and information from CQC, just follow the link from our "Useful links" page.
Healthwatch Milton Keynes
08/11/2012Milton Keynes Council have produced a flyer to spread the message that LINk:MK will become Healthwatch Milton Keynes on April 1st, 2013.
LINk:MK to Local Healthwatch flyer_(135K)
MK Equality Council AGM
16/11/2012THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF MILTON KEYNES EQUALITY COUNCIL IS ON THURSDAY 13TH DECEMBER 2012, AT 6.30 PM
Venue: Milton Keynes Equality Council, 352-390 Silbury Court West, Silbury Boulevard Central Milton Keynes, MK9 2ND
To book a place or for more information, please contact Navritaa@mkequalitycouncil.org.uk
01908 606224/606828
LINk:MK to Local Healthwatch
01/11/2012Following the results of the MK Council Consultation, we announced a couple of weeks ago that LINk:MK will become Local Healthwatch on April 1st 2013. An initial series of posters and flyers has been produced to make people aware of this. Please find an A5 document here which was given out at the LINk 2 Health and Care Event and will also go to all our offline members. LINk:MK to Local Healthwatch flyer_(135K)
Coming Soon...LINk 2 Health and Care Event 2012 photos
01/11/2012Many thanks to members and participants who have been in touch to say they enjoyed the event on October 23rd, and to enquire about photos. We have now received the photos from the day and hope to have these on our website by the start of next week! Keep an eye out for them, and don't forget we are always pleased to receive public feedback for any LINk:MK events as it helps us in planning future ones, so please get in touch if you attended the event and would like to give us your comments.
(Transfer of Care) Focus Groups - Final Call
01/11/2012As you know from recent e-alerts, LINk:MK are inviting you to take part in Focus Groups on Monday November 5th. These will look at a range of practical initiatives to improve the experience of patients during admission and / or discharge from hospital, making moving between the healthcare services and social care services as seamless as possible (Transfer of Care).
LINk:MK would still like to hear from anyone who would like to take part in the Focus Group,or has any suggestions or experiences to share about Transfer of Care.
For further information, please contact the Support Team as soon as possible on 01908 266696 or on linkmk@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk
A Warm Welcome to all our new members
25/10/2012We would like to extend a warm welcome to all our new members who have recently joined LINk:MK including those of you who visited the LINk 2 Health and Care Event.
LINk 2 Health and Care Event - What a great success....................
16/10/2012LINk:MK would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended our event on Tuesday 23rd October.
Remember, Remember the 5th of November is the Health and Social Care Focus Groups Date!!!
06/09/2012We would like to encourage members and participants to take part in the upcoming focus groups who will be meeting together to look at integrating health and social care. In particular how to achieve effective coordination between the two for patients being admitted or discharged from hospital.
Local Healthwatch Consultation Results
25/10/2012The consultation conducted by Milton Keynes Council regarding the proposed transition from LINk to Healthwatch ended last month and the results are now available.
Health and Adult Social Care Select Committee Meeting
25/10/2012LINk:MK would like to advise all members and participants that a Health and Adult Social Care Select Committee Meeting will be held on Tuesday 30th October at 7.00pm.
LINk:MK Patient Representative needed for Dementia Partnership Board
08/11/2012We need a second LINk:MK Patient Representative to work alongside an existing LINk:MK member on the Dementia Partnership Board run by Milton Keynes Community Health Services.
New Wolverton Health Centre gets go ahead
11/10/2012Patients of Wolverton Health Centre will be pleased to know a new health facility on the existing health centre site on Gloucester Road, Wolverton was approved on Friday 5 October 2012.
Healthier Together Programme - Update
11/10/2012As many of you are aware the Healthier Together Programme for change will affect our local services and currently is making our local news.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
05/10/2012LINk:MK would like to promote that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Commissioning Champions Project
27/09/2012As you know, LINk:MK have been working with representatives of local Patient Partcipation Groups and NAPP (National Association of Patient Participation) to develop a framework of learning for patients to understand more about new arrangements for providing local healthcare, allowing them to be more involved and have greater influence.
Our Commissioning Champions have been invited to trial the first level workshop very soon, but we have also decided to open this up to other patients who have an interest in commissioning, either because of their patient particpation group, or because they are patient representatives on a group or board that deals with this.
The workshop is taking place on October 8th. If you would like more details, or think you would be interested in attending, please contact the Support Office.
Care Quality Commission press releases and reports
27/09/2012Local Involvement Networks have always had a role in working with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)and this link is to be strengthened following the new Health and Social Care Act. LINk:MK receive reports and press releases from the CQC about the services in Milton Keynes that they are responsible for inspecting, for information. A link to the CQC website is included on our "Useful Links" page for anyone wanting to find out more, but we have also added a folder to our documents will be available there from now on.
Don't forget, LINk:MK also collect issues from members and particpants about their, or their families, experiences of local health and social care services. If you have any feedback you'd like us to record, you can use our "Tell Us" page, or contact the Support Team.
LINk to Healthwatch
27/09/2012The MK Council consultation regarding the proposed transition from LINk to Healthwatch has now ended - many thanks to all those members and participants who have responded. LINk:MK will bring you details of the results and what this will mean as soon as possible, and updates will be available both at the LINk 2 Health and Care Event and in our next newsletter, due in November.
Diabletes Patients Offered New Insulin Passport
19/09/2012Patients who are treated with insulin for their diabetes are to be offered a new insulin passport and patient information leaflet to help them to take a more active role in their treatment and make sure they are given the correct insulin.
Following the National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) Insulin alertlast year, all adults aged 18 or over using insulin should now be offered an insulin passport and patient information leaflet which outlines potential safety issues relating to insulin. Patients should carry their insulin passport with them at all times, to show health care professionals including pharmacists which insulin and device they are using.
Glenfield Hospital, Leicester
18/09/2012LINk:MK have been contacted by Leicester LINk to make members and participants aware of an e-petition they are currently running.
Glenfield Hospital in Leicester does amazing work in childrens heart surgery and the hospital is at risk of closing - Leicester LINk are hoping to get 100,000 signatures to ensure the proposed closure is debated in parliament.
If you would like to find out more about this, please visit:
epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/35788
Have you been inspired by the Olympics?
14/09/2012If you are looking to take up a new activity, suitable for any level of fitness, why not check out
www.reactivatebucks.org/miltonkeynes or
www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/leisure-facilities
www.reactivatebucks.org/miltonkeynes
www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/leisure-facilities
and come along to our LINk 2 Health and Care Event to find out more and try some of these for free!
FINAL REMINDER -PPG LINk:MK Network meeting
20/08/2012A reminder that the PPG LINk:MK Network meeting is on Wednesday October 10th, at the Peartree Centre (AGE UK), starting with a light buffet and refreshments at 5.15pm. All patients are welcome. More information on the LINk:MK website or from the Support Team!
Important - New Date for Health and Social Care Focus Groups
06/09/2012We are pleased to advise that a new date has now been set for the Health and Social Care Focus Groups.
The first Focus Group will take place on Monday 5th November and a morning and afternoon session will run.
We are looking for volunteers to come forward to take part in the focus groups looking at integrating health and social care, particularly how to achieve effective coordination between the two for patients being admitted or discharged from hospital.
We are looking for members and participants to take part in these groups. Please contact the Support Team to register your interest or for more details on 01908 266696 or linkmk@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk
PPG LINk:MK Network meeting
20/08/2012A reminder that the PPG LINk:MK Network meeting is on Wednesday October 10th, at the Peartree Centre (AGE UK), starting with a light buffet and refreshments at 5.15pm. All patients are welcome. More information on the LINk:MK website or from the Support Team!
Diabletes Patients Offered New Insulin Passport
19/09/2012Patients who are treated with insulin for their diabetes are to be offered a new insulin passport and patient information leaflet to help them to take a more active role in their treatment and make sure they are given the correct insulin.
Following the National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) Insulin alertlast year, all adults aged 18 or over using insulin should now be offered an insulin passport and patient information leaflet which outlines potential safety issues relating to insulin. Patients should carry their insulin passport with them at all times, to show health care professionals including pharmacists which insulin and device they are using.
Have you been inspired by the Olympics?
14/09/2012If you are looking to take up a new activity, suitable for any level of fitness, why not check out
www.reactivatebucks.org/miltonkeynes or
www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/leisure-facilities
www.reactivatebucks.org/miltonkeynes
www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/leisure-facilities
and come along to our LINk 2 Health and Care Event to find out more and try some of these for free!
Mencap Direct - A Free Helpline for those with a Learning Disability
14/09/2012LINk:MK would like to advise its members and participants that Mencap has improved the way that people can access learning disability information and advice, and find out about Mencap services in their area.
Postural Care
13/09/2012LINk:MK have been asked to advise that there are places available for professionals and families to learn alongside one another about Postural Care.
Physiofunction Hosts Neurological Open Day
11/09/2012Physiofunction will be hosting a Neurological Open Day with some of their partners on 7th November 2012 at the Holiday Inn Express just off Junction 15a of the M1.
FREE DENTAL SESSIONS FOR CHILDREN
12/09/2012Children and families are being encouraged to attend free Dental Drop-in sessions at centres across Milton Keynes.
Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Services in Milton Keynes.....what do you think?
23/08/2012LINk:MK has a patient representative on the Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Programme Board who ensures service users and carers remain central to planning. To be able to represent patients effectively, our representatives need as much of your feed back as possible, and in turn, they provide activity reports, keeping you informed.
LINk:Mk would like to hear from anyone who has comments or suggestions about mental health and/or learning disabilities services in Milton Keynes? What should be the priorities that people planning and developing these services should be focussing on? Are there any issues/concerns that you would like to raise? What has been your experience of these services?
If you have questions, issues or suggestions for our representative to take to the board, please send these via the LINk:MK Support Team on linkmk@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk or 01908 266696, or use the TELL US page on the website!
Milton Keynes Safeguarding Childrens Board Annual Conference
06/09/2012LINk:MK would like to advise all members and participants that the Milton Keynes Safeguarding Children Board Annual Conference.
MK Hospital AGM
07/09/2012Milton Keynes Hospital Council of Governors would like to invite you to their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 12th September from 6pm at The Church of Christ the Cornerstone.
The theme of the event is a Touch of Pink, celebrating the great work already underway to raise £80,000 towards a new x-ray machine to be used in the Breast Care Unit.Show your support by wearing an item of pink clothing!
NHS Milton Keynes AGM
07/09/2012You may be interested in attending the NHS Milton Keynes' Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2012 which is being held from 5-7pm on Tuesday 25 September 2012 at NHS Milton Keynes, Sherwood Place, Sherwood Drive, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK3 6RT.
Healthwatch Consultation.....last few days!!
30/08/2012The closing date for the LINk to Healthwatch Consultation is 13th September 2012, so there are just a few more days to have your say, either online by following the following link, or by contacting the LINk:MK Support Team if you would like a paper copy. We look forward to bringing you results of this consultation as soon as they are available, and thanks to everyone who has taken part!
www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/mkcconsultationdetails/?ConsultationID=202
LINk 2 Health & Care Event 2012
30/08/2012This years LINk 2 Health & Care Event is on the 23rd October.
Mental Health Partnership Board
30/08/2012The Mental Health Local Implementation Team would like to invite service users and organisations to the launch of the Milton Keynes Mental Health Partnership Board.
The aim is to establish a partnership forum with a wide membership able to ensure good mental health and wellbeing across the whole population of Milton Keynes.
The launch event will provide information on the purpose of the Board, ask what themes and areas of interest people would like to see taken forward by the Board over the coming year and enable people to let us know whether they are interested in becoming members of the new Board.
If you would like to attend, or for more information please contact Savi Ludgate on 01908 253965 or savi.ludgate@milton-keynes.gov.uk by 3rd September 2012.
Please see attached poster.
Mental Health Partnership Board Launch Poster
In Your Shoes
20/08/2012LINk:MK work closely with Milton Keynes Hospital to gather feedback and improve patient experience, so we are pleased to make our members and participants aware of a series of events the hospital is running during September and October called "In Your Shoes". If you have used any of their services within the last 12 months you can help the hospital by telling them what has been good about the care you or your loved ones received and what you feel needs improving.
At the sessions, hospital staff will listen to your experiences, talk with you about your views and learn more about what matters most to you.
Please see the attached poster for details including dates and times, and who you can contact to book a place.
In Your Shoes poster_(71K)
Calling all Willen Village Surgery Patients....
22/08/2012Willen Village Surgery is one of the few practices in Milton Keynes that doesn't have an active Patient Participation Group, and LINk:MK have been approached to help get patients of the practice involved.
PPGs have a hugely important role to play in their GP practice, making sure patients are involved and the needs of the local community are met ...and it doesn't have to take up a great deal of time!
LINk:MK at the Community Kiosk
06/09/2012Members of the LINk:MK Support Team and Volunteers will be at the Community Kiosk (thecentre:mk) on Wednesday September 12th from 10am untill lunch time - come and say hello!
Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2012-15
15/08/2012LINk:MK would like to remind our members and participants that the Health and Wellbeing Strategy Consultation closes on Thursday 23rd August.
Developing 24/7 Vascular Services
02/08/2012LINk:MK would like to advise all our members and participants about the proposed changes to Vascular treatment for residents in Milton Keynes.
Milton Keynes Safeguarding Childrens Board Annual Conference
26/07/2012LINk:MK would like advise all members and participants that the Milton Keynes Safeguarding Children Board Annual Conference will be held on
Wednesday 14 November 2012 from 9.30am to 3.30pm at
The Ridgeway Centre, Featherstone Road, Wolverton Mill South, MK12 5TH
Mental Health Service Workshop - ASTI
13/07/2012LINk:MK have been asked to inform all its members and participants that a workshop and lunch will be held on Thursday 26th July, hosted by MK Surf, MK Mind, NSUN and NHS Milton Keynes.
LINk:MK Website and Database
05/07/2012LINk:MK launched a new website and database in September 2011. As part of our overall Communications Strategy and Work Programme, improvements and developments to this website and database continue and we have added a Useful links page. This will include links to our local working partners in health and social care as well as links to national organisations like the Department of Health and the Care Quality Commission.
As you will be aware, LINk:MK have over 300 local voluntary and community groups registered with us, and we would like to include links to some of these where appropriate.
If you would like us to include a link to your website (relevant to health and social care in Milton Keynes), please do contact us make sure that we have your correct details (web address and contacts as well as a very short description of who you are and what you do!
Please also help visitors to your website find us through your links, or check that the information you already include about us is up to date!
Our website can be found at www.miltonkeyneslink.co.uk and the office email address is linkmk@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk
LINk:MK at the Community Kiosk
05/07/2012LINk:MK will be at the Community Kiosk at centre:mk on Thursday 12th July from 10.00 until 3.00pm. We will be promoting LINk:MK, talking to members of the public about our work, and collecting issues, experiences and concerns.
CARE QUALITY COMMISSION UPDATE
03/07/2012New Chief Executive appointed
Learning Disability Services National Report published.
Quarterly Market Report
Developing 24/7 Vascular Services - Reminder
05/07/2012You may remember that LINk:MK have provided patient representation for recent Cardio Vascular review panels and we would like to remind our members and participants that an engagement event in Milton Keynes will be held on Monday 16 July 2012 to look at this service.
Your help is needed with a NEW PROJECT aiming to improve patient experience when attending appointments in the community!
22/06/2012Some time ago LINk:MK received feedback from members with regard to their experiences when attending appointments in the community (by this we mean appointments like podiatry & eye clinics, physio, etc. that are held in and around Milton Keynes,usually in GP surgeries, but they are NOT hospital or GP appointments). LINk:MK have now been approached by Milton Keynes Community Health Services to take part in a new project that aims to identify, assess and then tackle these issues with a view to improving the patient experience, paying particular attention to signage / reception area, and so on.
As you know LINk:MK offers everyone the opportunity to be involved, the scope for this project is really open as we are being involved right from the very beginning, so if you were one of the members who originally gave feed back to us and would like to be involved in this project or if you attend regular appointments like this or just would like to be involved as someone who has an interest, then please get in touch with the LINk:MK Support Office on 01908 266696 or email linkmk@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk in the first instance to discuss further.
Launch of Community Health Awards People's Award
03/07/2012Service users and the public are invited to say thank you to local health care staff by nominating them for a Dignity in Care award.
Milton Keynes Community Health Services (MKCHS) is launching the fourth annual Peoples Award - Dignity in Care to recognise the outstanding contribution made by staff to the care of local people.
LINk:MK transition to Healthwatch - Deadline for Consultation is looming
07/06/2012Closing date for Healthwatch Consultation is 13th September 2012.
Make sure your voice is heard.
MK Council Joint Commissioning Team are running a consultation untill September 13th about the proposed transition of LINk to Healthwatch. If you haven't already done so, you can take part in the quick online survey via the link on our website or by contacting the Support Team for a hard copy if you would prefer.
LINk 2 Health and Care Event 2012
25/05/2012LINk:MK are now heavily involved in the final planning for the LINk 2 Health and Care Event, we are now down to the last few stands.
Community In-Patient Units Again Receive Top Marks in annual assessment
06/08/2012Milton Keynes Community Health Services' (MKCHS) inpatient units have again received ‘excellent' scores for privacy and dignity in its annual Patient Environment Action Team (PEAT) assessments – retaining its position as having the highest score among all NHS organisations in the area.
Healthy Living Pharmacies
09/08/2012LINk:MK are pleased to inform all our members and participants of the new Healthy Living Pharmacy quality mark for community pharmacies chemists).
Mental Health Partnership Board Launch
30/08/2012LINk:MK have been requested to promote the launch of the new Mental Health Partnership Board on 12th September between 10am - 1pm at Acorn House, Midsummer Boulevard, Milton Keynes, MK9 3HP.
Mental Health Partnership Board Launch Poster
PPG LINk:MK Network Event
20/08/2012The next PPG LINk:MK Network is on Wednesday October 10th, at the Peartree Centre (AGE UK), starting with a light buffet and refreshments at 5.15pm. All patients are welcome. The agenda for the meeting will be available on the website shortly and includes a very short presntation about the "Choose and Book" system, with question and answers, and an open discussion about disability access.
LINk:MK have sent copies of our latest newsletter, the PPG Network newsletter, and posters to all GP surgeries in Milton Keynes - look out for these, and please encourage your practice to have them on display in the waiting room.
PPG LINk:MK Network poster_(1530K)
Have Your Say on Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Services in Milton Keynes
23/08/2012LINk:MK has patient representation on the Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Programme Board that ensures service users and carers remain central to planning and services are commissioned that support people to keep them well, independent and in control of their own care.
Calling all Willen Village Surgery Patients....
22/08/2012Willen Village Surgery is one of the few practices in Milton Keynes that doesn't have an active Patient Participation Group, and LINk:MK have been approached to help get patients of the practice involved.
PPGs have a hugely important role to play in their GP practice, making sure patients are involved and the needs of the local community are met ...and it doesn't have to take up a great deal of time!
In Your Shoes
20/08/2012LINk:MK work closely with Milton Keynes Hospital to gather feedback and improve patient experience, so we are pleased to make our members and participants aware of a series of events the hospital is running during September and October called "In Your Shoes". If you have used any of their services within the last 12 months you can help the hospital by telling them what has been good about the care you or your loved ones received and what you feel needs improving.
At the sessions, hospital staff will listen to your experiences, talk with you about your views and learn more about what matters most to you.
Please see the attached poster for details including dates and times, and who you can contact to book a place.
In Your Shoes poster_(71K)
CIL Network and Engagement Manager
23/08/2012Milton Keynes Centre for Integrated Living have asked LINk:MK to mention a current vacancy for a Network and Engagement Manager. The job description is available here, or please contact them directly for more information.
Job description CIL_(106K)
Job Description CIL_(41K)
Are You Over 55 - Patient Panels Need You!!!
16/08/2012Would you like to be involved?........
Are you interested in helping to improve older patients experience of care in hospital?
Camphill Milton Keynes Communities - Open Day
15/08/2012LINk:MK would like to remind all members and participants that Camphill Milton Keynes Communities are hosting an Open Day on Saturday 8th September.
Healthier Together Programme
22/08/2012LINk:MK has been involved in the Healthier Together Programme that looks at reviewing acute services across 5 hospitals including Milton Keynes in the South East Region since its inception in 2010.
Healthier Together Programme August Update
Diamond Jubilee Equality Awards
28/06/2012LINk:MK would like to inform all members and participants that Milton Keynes Equality Council are inviting nominations for DIAMOND JUBILEE EQUALITY AWARDS
They would like to hear from organisations and individuals who are working towards combating discrimination and inequality and have developed ways and systems to promote justice and 'equality of opportunity for all.' This will be once in a life time opportunity of gaining a Diamond Jubilee Equality Award.
Nominations are open now and self nominations are accepted.Milton Keynes Equality Council will want to know how you / your organisation is promoting equality for the protected characteristics stated in the Equality Act.
The closing date is Friday 12th October 2012.
If you would be interested in this, please contact the LINk:MK Support Team who will provide details of how and where to apply.
Milton Keynes Hospital Medicine for Members Event
29/06/2012Milton Keynes Hospital invite you to their Medicine for Members event on Wednesday July 11th 2012.
The presentation will focus on the hospital's high fidelity training suite.
All Medicine for Members events are open to the public, free refreshments and parking passes given out on the night.
An exciting opportunity for a Patient Representative
22/06/2012MK Community Health Services are responsible for providing Childrens Health services in the community (such as Health Visitors, School Nurses,speech therapy, etc). MKCHS need to get feedback about patient experience across all the services they provide. This is easier for some services than others, due to the nature of the contact or environment where the service is provided, but they want to develop a consistant approach. To do this, MKCHS have asked for Patient Representation through LINk:MK to help them decide the best way forward.
The LINk:MK patient representative would be involved right from the start, so it isn't easy to say exactly what this might include or the time commitment - in fact, these will be partly dictated by the volunteer!
It would be helpful, though not essential, for volunteers to have some experience of health services in the community for children. You would be supported by LINk:MK and there is opportunities to meet with the Project Lead to discuss any questions before proceeding.
It is becoming increasingly important that health services can show they are getting feedback from their patients - do you think you can help Milton Keynes Community Health Services achieve this??
Say a big Thank you to a Community Health Care Worker
18/06/2012LINk:MK have been asked to advise our members and participants about the Dignity in Care Awards.
Service users and the public are invited to say thank you to local health care staff by nominating them for a Dignity in Care award.
Milton Keynes Community Health Services (MKCHS) is launching the fourth annual People's Award Dignity in Care to recognise the outstanding contribution made by staff to the care of local people.
LGiU Policy Briefing
15/06/2012From the Local Government Information Unit, this document is intended for those involved in the set up of Local Healthwatch and provides a briefing on the final form of the Health and Social Care Act 2012 (in respect of Healthwatch)Healthwatch Policy Briefing_(45K)
Health and Social Care Act 2012
15/06/2012This document is an extract from Chapter 1 of the Health and Social Care Act 2012, which looks at Public involvement (in Health and Social Care) and sets out the functions of, and arrangements for the setting up of, Healthwatch England and Local Healthwatch organisations
Health and Social Care Act 2012_(90K)
Dont forget to have your say - Health and Wellbeing Board - Draft Strategy Consultation
01/06/2012Dont forget to have your say.......
The shadow Health and Wellbeing Board is the partnership committee (formed in response to the Government agenda for change in health and social care) to develop strategies to improve the health and wellbeing of the local population.
The board will be in shadow form until April 2013, when it will become a statutory body.
The board involves representatives from the Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), as well as other health professionals, a patient representative (through LINk:MK), councillors and commissioners from MK Council.
The draft Health and Wellbeing Strategy is now available for patient and public consultation and LINk:MK would like to encourage everyone to have their say.
The following link will take you to the MK Council website where you can read the draft stategy and complete the online survey. Paper copies are available from the LINk:MK Support Team on request.
www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/mkcconsultation/?order=MainSort
Patient Representatives needed for TWO new projects.....
25/05/2012Milton Keynes Community Health Services are launching two new projects that look at patient experience and have invited LINk:MK to put forward some patient representatives for both. Volunteers would take part in some meetings, and possibly assist with some practical aspects of the projects too.....
Healthier Together Programme
10/05/2012LINk:MK are keen for our members and participants to be aware of the Healthier Together Programme (formerly Acute Services Review).....newsletters from the programme will be available on our website for information, in the documents section under "other publications"
Draft Health and Wellbeing Strategy Consultation
10/05/2012About the Shadow Health and Wellbeing Board, Draft Health and Wellbeing Strategy and consultation.......
Link to draft startegy and online consultationwww.milton-keynes.gov.uk/mkcconsultation/?order=MainSort
LINk:MK Fact sheets
15/04/2012LINk:MK have recently published a set of fact sheets to accompany our "Guide to LINk:MK" booklet. These are available online, or by contacting the Support Team.
Fact sheets
The Guide to LINk:MK is also available online, in LINk publications.
Quality Accounts - LINk:MK Responses
31/05/2012LINk:MK has now sent its response to the Quality Accounts of Mlton Keynes Hospital Foundation Trust and Brook East of England Milton Keynes for 2011-12.
NHS Future Forum
25/05/2012On 25th April, Health Secretary Andrew Lansley announced the formation of the NHS Future Forum Working Group on the NHS Constitution, a new independent expert panel which will contribute to a Government report.....
Tracking Parkinson's Research project
25/05/2012Tracking Parkinson's Research project: 3000 volunteers wanted nationally....
Pedestrian Crossing at Milton Keynes Hospital
17/05/2012Following strong recommendations from members of the general public in Milton Keynes regarding laying a pedestrian crossing at the Main Entrance of Milton Keynes Hospital leading to the car park, LINk:MK along with Milton Keynes Disability Advisory Group took perseverant efforts in raising these concerns with Milton Keynes Hospital.
Quality Accounts Brook East of England Milton Keynes
17/05/2012LINk:MK have been approached to comment on the Quality Accounts for Brook East of England Milton Keynes for 2011-12. Brook is the leading UK voluntary sector provider of contraception and sexual health services to young people under 25.
The charity has over 45 years' experience working with young people and has Centres across the UK.
Have your say on the End of Life Care Strategy
10/05/2012Milton Keynes Council have worked with local health and social care organisations to develop an End of Life Care Stategy, and now need to know what patients and the public think. There will be a consultation process running untill August and LINk:MK have been asked to make our members and participants aware of this, giving you the opportunity to comment on the strategy.
You can find the consultation at
www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/mkcconsultationdetails/?ConsultationID=193
or contact the LINk:MK Support Team for more details.
Healthier Together Programme Information Guide
10/05/2012LINk:MK would like to advise all members and participants that the Healthier Together Programme Information Guide is now on our website, under documents, other publications. If you would prefer a hard copy version. Please contact the support office on 01908 266696.
Patient-Led Inspection programme - Survey of Patient views
17/05/2012LINk:MK would like to advise all members and participants that a Patient Led Inspection System will commence in 2013 and you are invited to share your views on a online questionaire.
Healthier Milton Keynes?
25/04/2012LINk:MK have been asked to inform all members and participants about the above event on May 16th. This is a jointinitiative between Milton Keynes Council, Age UK Senior Voice and Milton Keynes Pensioners Association will be held from 2-4pm in the Guildhall, Church of Christ the Cornerstone, Central Milton Keynes.
The workshop will feature two presentations that LINk:Mk covered at their Citizens Meeting - Healthier Together and the Shadow Health and Wellbeing Board - and other speakers include Jan Lloyd, Older Persons Champion. More details on the attached poster.....
Older Persons Forum Poster
Commissioning Champions Project for PPG members
19/04/2012Thank you for to all members and participants who have came forward and shown an interest in the Commissioning Champions project.
A briefing from the project managers for interested PPGs will be taking place in the week beginning May 28th, and final confirmation of this will be sent to all interested PPGs.
If your PPG would like to find out more, we are happy to receive queries and expressions of interest untill then.
Details of the project are available on our website, via the link below, or by contacting the Support Team.
Commissioning Champions Project_(727K)
LINk:MK Response on Quality Accounts of Milton Keynes Hospital Foundation Trust 2011-12
22/05/2012LINk:MK had been approached to comment on the Quality Accounts of Milton Keynes Hospital Foundation Trust for 2011-12 recently.
Quality Accounts of Milton Keynes Hospital Foundation Trust 2011-12
25/04/2012The draft Quality Accounts of Milton Keynes Hospital Foundation Trust 2011-12 is available for your comments.
Click:
Draft Quality Accounts 2011-12 Milton Keynes Hospital _(3173K)
LINk:MK Citizens Meeting 2012
24/04/2012LINk:MK welcomed over 150 attendees to this years Citizens Meeting. The evening commenced with a FREE buffet and entertainment from Loughton School Choir which was enjoyed by all. The new members of the LINk:MK Executive Committee were welcomed along with presentations on the Healthier Together Programme and the New Shadow Health and Wellbeing Board. This year there was a new venue, Milton Keynes Christian Centre which was a great success. There was also work stations displaying the areas of work that LINk:MK had covered over the past twelve months. Thanks to all who attended.
LINk:MK Support Which Magazine Research Project
16/03/2012You might remember that back in January LINk:MK were approached by Which? Magazine for help in finding volunteers willing to help with research into home care. LINk:MK members who came forward were asked to keep diaries detailing their experiences of home (sometimes called domicilary)care for a week in January using voice recorders, paper diaries or computers and these were all assessed by the researchers to show the impact of good and bad care. LINk:MK have now received the final article, and this can be viewed in full here.....Which Care Study
UPDATE ON NEW FOOTCARE SERVICE
15/03/2012As we reported in last weeks e-alert, LINk:MK have received numerous complaints from patients who used the podiatry service finding that they needed to be re-assessed and were subsequently not eligible for treatment according to national criteria. This left many without a service they relied on and unable to afford to pay for alternatives.
LINk:MK are pleased to inform all members and participants that we have confirmation that the tender for this service has been awarded to AGE UK Milton Keynes.
LINk:MK Patient Representative Required for Milton Keynes Cancer Patient Partnership (MKCPP)
26/01/2012LINk:MK have been asked to provide a patient representative on the Milton Keynes Cancer Patient Partnership and would like to hear from you if you are interested in representing patients and the public on this group. The aim of Milton Keynes Cancer Patient Partnership is to improve the quality of cancer services in the Milton Keynes health community and ensure that the users are central to all decision-making processes. Meetings are scheduled bi-monthly at Milton Keynes Hospital Campus at Eaglestone.
Please contact the Support Team to register your interest or to find out more information about the group. And don't forget our Representative Guidance and Support Workshop this month, for more on patient representation through LINk:MK!
LINk:MK Patient Representative Required for Cardiology Commissioning Services
23/03/2012LINk:MK have been asked to provide patient representatives on the Cardiology Commissioning Heart Failure & Community Cardiology Services) and would like to hear from you if you are interested in representing patients and the public on this group. The aim of Cardiology Commissioning Heart Failure & Community Cardiology Services) is to secure all heart failure services to NICE Guidance including commissioning of heart failure rehabilitation and community nurses. Also to be covered is to see community cardiology service to move care closer to home.
LINk:MK Help Which with Care Survey
21/03/2012Which magazine contacted LINk:MK in January 2012 asking for members help with a survey they were about to conduct. They were looking for three volunteers who were in receipt of home care themselves, or someone they live were receiving home care. Which were interested in care provided by private organisations or Social Services. They wanted volunteers who could report on their experiences of home care or the experience of the person they live with by writing a diary entry after their home care visits. The aim of the survey was to build up a detailed 'real time' picture of good and bad home care experienced by older people.
Which Care Study
LINk:MK Citizens Meeting 2012
21/03/2012LINk:MK (Local Involvement Network, Milton Keynes) are holding their Annual Citizens Meeting on Thursday 19th April 2012 from 5.30pm.
This year the Citizens Meeting is being held at the Discovery Suite, Milton Keynes Christian Centre, Strudwick Drive, Oldbrook, Milton Keynes, MK6 2TG and doors open at 5.30pm.
The evening is open to everyone and all are welcome. A free light buffet will be served with live entertainment from Loughton School Choir, the main agenda commences at 6pm.
Podiatry and Foot Care Service Update
21/03/2012Last year, LINk:MK received numerous complaints from patients who used the podiatry service finding that they needed to be re-assessed and were subsequently not eligible for treatment according to national criteria. This left many without a service they relied on and unable to afford to pay for alternatives. LINk:MK raised these issues with providers and commissioners and were able to inform our members that a new Foot Care Service would be developed, jointly commissioned by NHS Milton Keynes and Milton Keynes Council. However, patients were still bringing their cases to our attention and so we persevered with the commissioners, encouraging them to implement the new service as soon as possible to avoid further distress to patients.
LINk:MK Citizens Meeting
09/02/2012Citizens MeetingLINk:MK (Local Involvement Network, Milton Keynes) will be holding its Annual Citizens' Meeting on Thursday 19th April 2012, at the Discovery Suite, Milton Keynes Christian Centre, Strudwick Drive, Oldbrook, Milton Keynes, MK6 2TG.
Any member of the public is invited to attend the meeting to find out about what we do and join LINk:MK. A free light buffet will be served from 5.30pm alongside entertainment, with the main agenda running from 6 – 7pm.
LINk:MK Executive Committee Elections
26/08/2011We are now seeking nominations of candidates for the LINk:MK Executive Committee; an elected group who are responsible for overseeing the work programme. The election process begins with nominations invited from February 13th.
Nomination Form 2012 Notes to candidates 2012
Equality Delivery System Seminar
21/02/2012LINk:MK co-hosted the event along with Milton Keynes Community Health Services (MKCHS) to help assess how MKCHS and MK Hospital provide health services that are personal, fair and diverse. The event was chaired by Alan Hastings, Chairman of the LINK:MK Executive Committee. LINk:MK provided help and support to publicise the event to all its members and organisations affiliated with prior to the event.
Health Information Day for BSL Users
28/02/2012LINk:MK (Local Involvement Network Milton Keynes) are delighted to be hosting a unique event for BSL (British Sign Language) Users, giving them an opportunity to receive Health awareness information that they might otherwise not receive. Profoundly Deaf patients, and those with hearing loss, do not always benefit from television and radio health awareness campaigns, and some are not able to access written information through leaflets and the media.
Healthier Together Programme - South Midlands
21/02/2012The NHS across the region has come together to consider how healthcare in Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire can be among the best in the NHS. They want to ensure health services keep up to date with opportunities for improvement and tackle the challenges the health service faces as demand for services rises as a result of a growing and ageing population and finite public resources.
This initiative is called 'Healthier Together'..
Click here for the video introducing Healthier Together South Midlands
healthiertogether.northamptonshire.nhs.uk/
Update on Podiatry
13/06/2011LINk:MK has continued to receive many concerns about Podiatry Services in Milton Keynes. You may recall that we advised a new service was to be launched in January 2012.
This week we contacted Milton Keynes Council for an update so we could advise all our members with a further update. We received a statement from Mary Hartley, Senior Joint Commissioner for Adult Community Services at Milton Keynes Council.
Coming up on LINk LIVE
31/08/2011Join us on LINk LIVE this Wednesday, February 1st for a feature on our project with the Deaf and Hearing Impaired and working in partnership with local statutory organisations and community groups. We'll also be announcing details of our Citizens Meeting, and the election process for the LINk:MK Executive Committee.
Patient Representation through LINk:MK - Guidance and Support Workshop
13/06/2011LINk:MK are pleased to announce the date for the next Guidance and Support Workshop on Monday March 26th. The workshop is aimed at members and participants who represent patients through LINk:MK, or may be interested in doing so, but we are pleased to hear from anyone who has an interest in patient representation and would like to attend, as long as space allows.
Health and Social Care Focus Groups
01/12/2011A ‘Gateway' into health & Social Care Services - What should it look like? What do we need to do to get this right?
The Adult and Older People's Transformation Directorate have asked LINk:MK to co- host another round of focus groups looking at the patient and public views on how the delivery of this service can be improved.
Future of MKCHS
01/09/2011The future direction for Milton Keynes Community Health Services (MK CHS) has been settled for the coming year. NHS Milton Keynes & NHS Northamptonshire primary care trust has selected Bedford Hospital to be the host for the organisation.
Progress Review Event
01/09/2011LINk:MK are pleased to be hosting a Progress Review Event in December which will give local health service providers and commissioners the opportunity to tell our Deaf and Hearing Impaired members what improvements they have made as a result of the LINk:MK Accessing Health and Social Care report, and what they can expect in the near future.
The future direction for Milton Keynes Community Health Services (MK CHS) has been settled for the coming year. NHS Milton Keynes & NHS Northamptonshire primary care trust has selected Bedford Hospital to be the host for the organisation.