Get Involved

We asked some members of our PPF Steering Group about their experience of working with NHS 24 and their involvement in the development of various projects.

 

Why did you join the PPF?

“NHS 24’s PPF allows me to participate in matters of strategy, delivery and performance and I am happy that my input is always listened to and valued. I can see things I have offered being taken on and used.  It’s very satisfying in that respect.”

- Gordon Guthrie

“NHS 24 is a public service and it is important that the public voice is heard not only when problems arise but in helping to promote areas of good practice.”

- Margaret Totten

“To help NHS 24 fulfil the aims and objectives set out in its mandate.” 

- Michael Roberts

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What is your experience of working with NHS 24?

“It took a few months to come to terms with NHS 24’s language and corporate culture. I benefitted from going to two Board meetings which gave me awareness of the organisation. Since then I have become involved in four key projects and think I've made a contribution in each.”

- Gordon Guthrie

“Interesting, informative and very satisfying”

- Michael Roberts

“My personal experience of working with NHS 24 is different from many of the volunteer roles I have had over the years. NHS 24 staff and volunteers share and respect each others views and thoughts without recrimination. I have enjoyed the wealth of knowledge gained and the whole experience of just feeling part of a team rather than a token gesture volunteer sitting on a forum. Training and learning is provided as is a raft of information on the structure, roles and responsibilities of each committee. There is of course the odd niggle and frustration but these can be addressed extremely quickly at meetings.”

- Margaret Totten

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Do you feel you are communicated with?

“The Corporate Affairs team are excellent communicators and administrators. Management right up to the Chief Executive and Chairman of the Board, confirm how valuable they feel the PPF is. I feel NHS 24 is flexible to help us participate, taking into account we are geographically scattered.” 

- Gordon Guthrie

“With enthusiasm, information, respect and assistance when called for.”

- Michael Roberts

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Did you feel supported?

“There is ample information provided to help you understand what is what and who is who, and ample opportunity for individuals to ask for one-to-one meetings to get your head around some of the roles and Committees. PPF members are happy also to share and take-up concerns which is a great support.”

- Margaret Totten

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What would be your advice to someone who was interested in joining the PPF?

"Come on in. Don't just stand there, join."

- Michael Roberts

“Be clear about what’s expected of you.  Learn as much as you can about the organisation. Don't wait to be asked. Speak up at meetings. Get to know other PPF members. You should also be able to use your computer for a lot of communication and reading material. On the other side remember you are a volunteer and don't let it take over your life."

- Gordon Guthrie

“You don't have to sign up to a big contract, as a volunteer you are not committed to signing away years of commitment, although there is a commitment to assist the PPF in gathering information and representing it on various committees. You might want some written information about the role of the PPF before you commit yourself or seek thoughts direct from other members of the group.”

- Margaret Totten

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Do you feel you are listened to when involved in the specific projects?

“Both myself and a fellow member were involved in the NHS inform Programme Board and feel that leading up to the launch we were able to focus on what we felt was important from a public perspective. We were able to ask the right questions at the right time to the people who were in charge of development and implementation, both of which were challenges to meet the date.”

- Gordon Guthrie

“I feel that NHS 24 staff appreciate the contribution made by the volunteers.”

- Jane Turner