In April 2017, following the dissolution of the Strategic Clinical Networks, the Citizens’ Senate commenced a partnership with the Eastern Academic Health Science Network (EAHSN) for collaborative working on programmes across the regional health economy, to achieve radical transformation to improve patient outcomes. The Citizens’ Senate offers patient and service user experience and insight to develop patient-centric services. One example might be co-production of support packages based around the lived experience of members.
The Citizens’ Senate is independent and retains its neutrality through its voluntary and grant-based activities. This is to instil confidence and gain trust and acceptance from those we represent. The Citizens’ Senate continues to evolve, with aspirations to extend public voice through a larger cohort of Patient Leaders. In order to successfully achieve this, training will be a key part of our development and provision.