Boost to struggling health trust

Representatives from Healthwatch have welcomed the news that the East Kent University Hospital Foundation Trust (EKHUFT) could be taken out of special measures.

As we reported last week, the trust, which runs Ashford’s Wil- liam Harvey Hospital was visited by Care Quality Commission health inspectors in September who said significant improvements had been made and recommended it be brought out of its emergency status.

Steve Inett, chief executive of Healthwatch, said: “We know everyone at East Kent hospitals has been working hard to make the improvements needed, so we are delighted to hear the news.

“We would encourage everybody to continue to share their experiences with us so we can continue to improve services.”

Healthwatch offers an independent voice for patients to feedback on health services.

John Richards, who volunteers with the group, said: “Many of us moan about the state of the NHS, but with Healthwatch you can actually make a difference. As a volunteer, I can get involved as much or as little as I want.

“This year I have been involved in discussions about the redesign of the Kent & Canterbury Emergency Centre and I have visited GP services to talk to patients and listen to their experiences.

“What I heard has been used to improve those services. .”

To get involved, contact Healthwatch Kent on 0808 801 0102 or info@healthwatchkent. co.uk.

Healthwatch Steve Innett