User involvement is usually delivered by a partnership of interested people in an organisation or locality. Think about the people you know who would advocate on behalf of user involvement in different parts of your organisation or area, particularly those who can bring particular knowledge and skills to the table.
It’s often at a different level in the organisation where there needs to be change, that’s why you need to prepare all staff…You don’t always need senior level buy-in, sometimes you need the clinicians’ buy-in.
Jacqueline Rooney, North Mersey Diabetes Network Manager
Where it is feasible, form a group to share planning responsibilities and to make sure that you do not become overwhelmed by the task. The group can plan, implement and support the various stages of user involvement.
If possible, the group who help you should include:
- a senior manager (support from)
- administrative support
- where possible staff from a PPI team or community development team
- someone from the communication team (when necessary)
- a diabetes healthcare professional.
You can’t stress enough about planning and having clarity – it’s common sense good project management.
Carol Cottingham, NHS Lincolnshire Head of Long Term Conditions