A HEALTH and care organisation is looking for volunteers.

Healthwatch Dorset, which works to assess the quality of local health and care services, is looking for members of its steering group.

Members of the team will help to plan and shape the organisation's work plan.

Louise Bate, Healthwatch Dorset Manager, said: "We welcome interest from all sections of the local community. We’re looking for local people with a passionate interest in helping the local community shape the way their health and social care services are run.

"Although not essential, if people have knowledge or experience in social care, children and young people, mental health, equalities and diversity this would be beneficial."

Healthwatches were introduced as part of the Health and Social Care Act 2012. They work to offer members of the public with information about care and to monitor the quality of care in local areas.

The steering group will help the organisation to ensure that their mission can be achieved.

Joyce Guest, former chair of Healthwatch Dorset, said: "Volunteering can increase your confidence, make you feel less isolated and build up your feelings of self-worth. It can also help those with long term medical conditions left unable to work. "It is an opportunity for them to feel useful and use time constructively.

"In my former role as Chair of Healthwatch Dorset I learnt a lot about the complexities of the organisation and management of health and social care. "During this time, I also benefited from a greater knowledge of dementia and other mental health disabilities.

"I found the whole experience both educational and rewarding. "I would recommend volunteering for Healthwatch to anyone with spare time."

Volunteer Lisa, explaining why she volunteers with Healthwatch Dorset, said: "I'm blind and I've been volunteering for more than 20 years for community and disability groups. I love the fact that Healthwatch has the power to action real change, and really value my opinion.

"I help with hospital assessments and have given feedback that's been passed to Healthwatch England and NHS England. I feel very lucky to be part of the Healthwatch family."

For more information, visit healthwatchdorset.co.uk

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