A KIRKLEES health watchdog is calling for new members to get involved.

The Local Involvement Network (Link) is inviting people to have their say on health and social care issues by taking part in a new committee group.

The voluntary organisation was set-up in 2007 to replace the former Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) Forums.

It is now planning a committee structure to help formalise meetings and create a louder voice for the people of Kirklees.

Member Jean Moxon – who co-ordinates the group – said: “It is about getting people’s opinions about services and bringing them to the attention of the right people.

“We invite the public to meetings and they decide what the agenda is. It can be any topic they want.

“The authorities are supposed to reply to us in 20 working days.

“But we would love more people to get involved and join us.”

The group meets in public every month to address local topics ranging from GP access and care at home to breastfeeding rates and the ambulance service.

It also carries out patient surveys about local services to monitor opinion and offer recommendations to local health providers.

It hosts presentations from key health figures and visits various healthcare settings, including hospitals and old peoples’ homes.

Link has also organised open events to help engage with all sections of the community.

It is even in the process of producing a DVD for people in North Kirklees, to find out how they could feel healthier.

The national Link scheme is funded with Government cash to help local people influence decision making health and social care services.

The group is now aiming to recruit more members, especially those to represent ethnic minority views or the opinions of disabled service users.

Jean added: “We are a friendly group and anybody who wants to come and join us would be more than welcome.”

For further details about getting involved with Link, call 01484 420165.