Celebrating one year of BFT's Community Participation Group

Bristol NHS Foundation Trust's Community Participation Group (CPG) has now completed its first year of bringing together people with lived experience; community representatives; and voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) partners to help shape health and care services across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
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Colleagues involved in Bristol NHS Foundation Trust's Community Participation Group gathered to celebrate the first year anniversary

Over the past year, members have played an important role in ensuring that community perspectives inform discussions about the development and improvement of local health and care services. Through their experiences, expertise, and strong connections with local communities, members have contributed valuable insights that have helped strengthen engagement and supported more informed decision-making.

The Community Participation Group brings together individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and organisations. This diversity of perspectives helps ensure that conversations reflect the needs, priorities, and experiences of the communities we serve.

A key strength of the group is the willingness of members to share their lived experience, helping to highlight what matters most to local people and to identify opportunities to improve how we engage with communities. Their contributions help ensure that community voices are heard, valued, and considered throughout the work of the health and care system.

Ingrid Barker, BFT and CPG Chair, shares

"As we reflect on the group's first year, we would like to thank all Community Participation Group members for their commitment, enthusiasm, and continued dedication."

Professor Steve Hams, Chief Nursing and Improvement Officer, shares

"Their contributions have helped build strong foundations for meaningful participation and collaboration, and we look forward to continuing to work together to improve health and care services for local communities."

Find out more about our Community Participation Group and learn about the experience and perspectives they bring to this important work on our website.