Provision of Local Healthwatch Service and Independent Complaints Advocacy (NHS Services)

Descriptions

The Health and Social Care Act 2012 makes provision for a consumer champion for health and social care called Healthwatch. There are two separate bodies with slightly different functions: Healthwatch England and Local Healthwatch. Local Healthwatch gives a stronger voice to people in influencing the health and wellbeing agenda and local service provision; providing signposting, supporting individuals with information and advice about access to services. The Act also makes provision for local authorities to make arrangements for the delivery of an independent complaints advocacy service in relation to their area for complaints relating to the provision of health services (NHS). Dorset County Council in partnership with Borough of Poole and Bournemouth Borough Council is seeking providers to deliver: •A Local Healthwatch Service (Lot 1) •Independent Complaints Advocacy (NHS Services) (Lot 2)