Healthwatch Sefton is recruiting a voluntary Chairperson, and local residents with a keen knowledge and understanding of health and social care are being invited to apply.

The current chairperson was appointed to serve for a 3 year term of office which has now come to an end. Therefore Healthwatch Sefton has announced that it is recruiting to the position.

Healthwatch Sefton is an independent organisation, which aims to represent the views of local people including those who use health and care services so they can help shape how services are delivered.

The role requires knowledge of the health and social care system across Sefton, excellent chairing skills, and the ability to lead the continued strategic evolution of Healthwatch Sefton.

The manager of Healthwatch Sefton, Diane Blair said “We are seeking someone who has the skills and aptitude to operate at a board level or the direct experience of having done so.

“He or she will play a significant role in developing the strategy, direction and business objectives of Healthwatch Sefton, and they will maintain strong working relationships with Sefton Council, NHS, the Voluntary Sector and will take a seat on the Sefton Health and Wellbeing Board.This is a voluntary position but expenses will be paid.”

Healthwatch Sefton is the independent organisation, which aims to represent the views of local people including those who use health and care services so they can help shape how services are delivered.

Healthwatch Sefton is responsible for gathering views and understanding the experiences of people who use local services and promoting and supporting the involvement of people in the commissioning and provision of local care services and how they are scrutinised.

The organisation has the powers to recommend investigations or special reviews of services via Healthwatch England or directly to the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Candidates will be interviewed by a panel comprising of representatives from Sefton Council for Voluntary Services, Sefton Council and the Healthwatch Sefton Board. Training and support will be provided for the successful candidate.

An application pack can be downloaded from the Healthwatch Sefton website www.healthwatchsefton.co.uk/jobs/

For an informal chat about the role please ring: Diane Blair (Healthwatch Manager) on 0151 920 0726 EXT 240