Local Involvement Network – LINk
Local Involvement Networks (LINks) were introduced in 2007 in the Local Government & Public Involvement in Health Act to give local communities a stronger voice in the process of commissioning and delivering health and social care. Every local authority in England that has a responsibility for health and social care services must have a LINk.
A LINk is made up of individuals, community groups, and organisations who will help to shape, develop and improve health and social care services. LINk is an independent body that has a much wider remit than the former Patient and Public Involvement Forums that it replaces.
Anyone can join the LINk and using the powers available, can help to ensure agencies listen to the needs of communities so that they purchase and deliver services that meet those needs. Using the “enter and view” powers, members can also ensure that these changes are actually happening.
“LINks are made up of local people, organisations and groups from across the county that all share a common aim - to make all care services better. They are independent of both the county council and the NHS and we hope as many people as possible come forward because joining a LINk will give them the opportunity to say what they think and to suggest ideas that will improve services and the standard of living of those who rely on them.”
Councillor Tony Hicks of Gloucestershire County Council, Cabinet Member responsible for Community and Adult Care Services.
Councillor Tony Hicks of Gloucestershire County Council, Cabinet Member responsible for Community and Adult Care Services.