Make a difference to health services in West Norfolk, says retired nurse

A retired nurse is calling on West Norfolk residents to help enhance health services by joining their nearest Patient Participation Group (PPG).

Sheila Young, who was a nurse for 35 years and is continuing to champion the views of patients across West Norfolk, is hoping to encourage more people to become involved with their surgery’s PPG.

The groups, which are made up of volunteers, practice managers and doctors, work for the patient along with organising health promotion events and some fundraising.

Mrs Young, who sits on both West Norfolk Council and Norfolk County Council, joined the PPG at her surgery in Terrington St Clement in 2000 and is also the chairman of the West Norfolk Patient Partnership.

She said: “One of the most rewarding things I have found about working in the PPG is that you are making a difference.

“Often we have people coming to us distraught but by listening to them and also having an informal chat with the surgery, we are able to find a solution. By being part of a PPG, I am continuing to help people.”

After retiring to West Norfolk, Mrs Young was asked to become involved with her PPG by the practice staff.

“Joining the PPG was a continuation of what I had been doing during my professional career. But I would stress that you do not need to have a medical career to join your local PPG,” said Mrs Young.

“These groups are there to ensure the patient voice by sharing the experiences you have received from the patients but it is very much a two-way conversation with the GPs.

“I believe these groups are helping to make a difference to enhance the services on offer in West Norfolk. I have really enjoyed being part of a PPG.”