This enables us to:

• Support the development of products and services so that they are user-friendly and accessible.
• Ensure our products and services can be used to maximum benefit.

Supporting the development of products and services

It is important for the NHS to understand the needs and expectations of its consumers. NHS Connecting for Health aims to support the local NHS to involve their communities in the development, implementation and evaluation of numerous services and applications.

Some of the products and services developed may require national, as well as local involvement work. The Public Engagement team provides a range of services. We:

• Undertake formal and informal research into the needs of patients, carers and the public in the case of national engagement
• Facilitate workshops with relevant groups of people as specific issues arise; often working in partnership with our NHS colleagues in Patient and Public Involvement and Patient Advice Liaison Service teams
• Also work nationally with voluntary sector and community groups in order to involve hard-to-reach patients and those with specific needs.