Notes from the 20 September INVOLVE meeting

The INVOLVE meeting on 20 September saw presentations on the future shape of GP commissioning consortia in Merton and Sutton, the NHS Better Services Better Value programme and an update on the work of LINk Merton.

The future shape of GP commissioning consortia in Merton and Sutton

Neil Frances, independent consultant, led a discussion on whether the proposed boundaries for the two new GP commissioning consortia for Sutton and Merton should match the borough boundaries.

There are currently two consortia being developed: The Federation, made up of all GP practices in Merton and 6 in Sutton and The Sutton Consortium, made up of 21 Sutton practices. Neil is consulting on behalf of both consortia on whether their boundaries should change. Comments from the discussion included that coterminous borders with the local authorities would make accountability with the Health and Wellbeing Boards more effective, commissioning clearer and would allow for differing needs in the two boroughs to be reflected.

Groups wishing to comment further can respond direct to Neil by e-mail by 3rd October. A list of questions on the subject is attached below.

Better Services Better Value

Dr Paul Alford, local GP and clinical member of the Better Services Better Value Programme, gave a presentation on the review of NHS services taking place across South West London – presentation slides attached below.

NHS South West London held targeted engagement events during the summer.  Initial findings are available from the PCT website by clicking here.  There will be further opportunities for engagement, including an event planned through LINk in the autumn, and further conversations at INVOLVE as the programme develops. Any views on the programme and the initial findings can be e-mailed to betterservices@swlondon.nhs.uk.

LINk Merton update

Chris Frost, MVSC, informed the group that LBM has extended MVSC’s contract to host the Local Involvement Network (LINk) in Merton to 2012, when it is planned the LINk will be replaced by Local Healthwatch. Dave Hobday from MVSC gave a presentation on the recent work of the LINk and future plans. – presentation slides attached below.

News round up

• Performance Reward Grant: Information on the criteria and closing dates set by each of the thematic partnerships is available on the Merton Partnership website:  www.mertonpartnership.org.uk/prg.  
  
• Adult Services Task Group: a summary of the discussion at the last task group meeting is available at www.mertonconnected.com/asvtg.
  
• Merton Compact Refresh: the Merton Compact is currently being updated in line with changes to the national compact.  Visit www.merton.gov.uk/council/partnerships/compact.htm for a copy of the new draft.