“The highlight of my Public Patient Partnership (PPP) experience so far has been realising that we PPP reps are valued and really listened to,” according to Will, who is encouraging others to join the PPP Network at the HSE National Screening Service (NSS).  

“You will see the changes that you have suggested whether it’s documents, leaflets, letters or processes – you know you are making a difference.”

The NSS is currently looking for people to join their Patient Public Partnership (PPP) Network. According to NSS Chief Executive Fiona Murphy, they are looking for people from “all communities and backgrounds to be part of our strong volunteer network and help shape our screening services. We want to work in partnership with individuals on projects that suit their interests.

“We have four screening programmes: BreastCheck, CervicalCheck and BowelScreen, which screen for breast, cervical and bowel cancer respectively, and Diabetic RetinaScreen, which screens for retinopathy (eye disease) in people with diabetes. Screening is for people who do not have any symptoms of the diseases being screened for. We will give you opportunities to be involved in developing and evaluating these programmes.

“We provide an open and supportive environment for you to share your ideas and views, and your own experiences of using our screening services. We will listen to you, involve you, and value the time that you give us to help improve our services. We’ll support you to attend meetings online or in-person, and we’ll reimburse your travel costs. We’ll provide you with induction training and other training opportunities that interest you.”

Fiona continued: “People who have taken part in screening are often our best advisors. Our commitment is that we will value your input, we will listen to what you have to say and involve you. We are committed to putting people at the centre of what we do and allowing them to be involved in our decision-making processes.

“We will give you a choice of projects to be part of, and give you a seat at the table on our committees and project teams. We’re looking for people aged 18 and over. You do not need any specific qualifications or experience to join our network. We welcome people from all communities and backgrounds, and we can help if you have access needs.”

Grace, another current PPP representative, explains that “being part of the PPP has been a rewarding and enriching experience. I never imagined I’d feel as involved, or as accepted as I have and continue to be. There is someone on hand to answer any question when needed. The environments, both online and in-person, are welcoming and allow me to feel like, no matter how big or small, I’m making a difference in the National Screening Service.”

Watch Will outline his Public Patient Partnership experience on YouTube.com

Get more information on how to join the Public Patient Partnership