New patient complaints service will cater for increased demand

New patient complaints service will cater for increased demand

19 February 2014

THE organisation created to provide an independent voice on health and social care issues is opening a complaints clinic for local people in Downpatrick.

The Patient and Client Council’s new facility based at the Citizens’ Advice Bureau’s premises in Irish Street will be open every Wednesday between 10am and 4pm.

Maeve Hully, the Council’s chief executive, explained the new Downpatrick service will help people to make a complaint about any aspect of health and social care.

She said people are looking to the organisation in increasing numbers for advice and support when they have a concern about a health and social care service that they have received.

Mr. Richard Dixon, the Council’s complaints manager, said the organisation is committed to making it easier for people to raise a concern or make a complaint about health and social care.

“One of the ways we are doing this is by opening local clinics. We want the people of Downpatrick to know we are here and are ready to listen to them,” he added.

Councillor Colin McGrath, who is one of the Patient and Client Council’s board members, has welcomed the opening of the new complaints clinic.

He continued: “This is welcome news for people in the Downpatrick area as they will now have direct access to a strong advocate on their behalf when making complaints about the health service.

“Last year, over 1,000 complaints were assisted by the organisation in Northern Ireland, with many from the South Eastern Trust and Downpatrick area.”

Councillor McGrath said the new service will mean patients can have direct access to a complaints officer to meet face-to-face to discuss their case.

To make an appointment with a member of the Patient and Client Council complaints team contact 0800 917 0222 or log on at www.patientclientcouncil.hscni.net.