LINks
“I think LINks are relevant to every community and voluntary organisation that is interested in health and care services. At last, community voices have been given the opportunity to have a real say. I hope everyone will commit their energy to making LINks work.”
David Pink, Chief Executive, National Voices
Local Involvement Networks (LINks) offer new opportunities for voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations – in fact the voluntary sector is central to the whole idea of LINks.
LINks
LINks have been set up to help communities influence the way health and social care services are delivered. Make your voice count and get involved.There is a LINk in every local authority area with social services responsibility.
LINks are independent networks of interested individuals and organisations that will have a direct role in identifying local needs and influencing the development, commissioning and provision of all local health and social care services. They take advantage of existing structures and networks that already exist in the community.
What will a LINk do?
What's special about a LINk
LINks are supported by a host organisation to help them develop and work.. LINks have been given powers to help them carry out their role. These include being able to:
- ask commissioners for information about services and expect a response
- make recommendations and expect a response from commissioners
- refer matters to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee of the Local Authority
These powers may help to strengthen the voice of the voluntary and community sector in ways that haven’t happened before.
Why?
Why should voluntary and community groups and organisations get involved?
It is an opportunity to:
- raise your issues higher on the agenda of the statutory sector
- talk to those who make decisions about new or existing services
- join forces with others concerned about the same issues
- hold service providers to account on behalf of local people
There is a requirement for service providers to consult patients and the public and LINks will become the first point of contact for providers to gain views.
A LINk will:
How to get involved in LINks
To find a local LINk Lead contact your Local Authority
For more information about LINks visit: www.nhscentreforinvolvement.nhs.uk
