A GROUP of volunteers who champion the health care needs of people in Sedgefield borough has celebrated its first anniversary.

The Patient and Public Involvement Forum was established in December 2003 by volunteers from across the borough.

The independent group works closely with Sedgefield Primary Care Trust (PCT) and other health agencies to represent the voice of the public and patients.

Forum members have visited six GP surgeries to look at the range and quality of information available and have surveyed patients.

The forum is also asking hundreds of Newton Aycliffe residents what they would like to see included in a new health centre to be built next year. The Sedgefield forum has been involved in the development of a new out-of-hours service, the Oral Health Strategy and new integrated teams, which will provide a holistic service to adults with physical disabilities.

Members have also visited pharmacists to find out how syringes are disposed.

The forum meets monthly, some meetings are open to the public.

The forum is looking for more people to attend meetings or join the group.

For more details about getting involved in the work of the forum, telephone Jane King on (01325) 327463 or Maxine Lee (01325) 327462.

There is a Patient and Public Involvement Forum for every NHS trust and primary care trust in England.