THE work of Lancashire’s independent patients’ champion was launched at the University of Central Lancashire.

Delegates, who included 10 mayors and leaders of many groups working in health and social care, watched a short film which set out its job. This is to bring about improvements, and to help people access the services they need.

The vice-chancellor designate of the university, Professor Gerry Kelleher, introduced its chairman, Gail Stanley.

She told the Preston audience that ‘Healthwatch Lancashire’ was not an NHS, or local authority, organisation, but the independent voice of the people.

Ms Stanley said “Healthwatch has statutory powers to ensure the consumer voice is heard, and good services are delivered. We can signpost people to services with strong practice and a good reputation, and will also help them access advocacy, and complaints services, when necessary.”