Birmingham and Solihull PPG Forum

The Patient Participation Group (PPG) Forum supports the development of improving primary care, as well as wider health issues, through understanding GP practice level issues from a patient’s perspective.

Chaired by CCG Independent Member Qulsom Fazil, the forum provides a recognised mechanism, where patients can represent the views and experiences of their PPG, as well as challenging the CCG on important issues. It also provides a direct link into, and acts as a conduit between PPGs and the Primary Care Commissioning Committee, within the recognised CCG governance structure.

There is a terms of reference in place for the forum; this confirms the CCG’s partnership approach to developing the agenda, and ensures that members are providing updates to their PPGs after the meetings.

The CCG recognises that a clear and consistent model for effective engagement with PPGs is needed, which is inclusive and equitable to all PPGs from across the area. We would like an approach that works in partnership and collaboration with the CCG, and within the context of the wider health and social care system in Birmingham and Solihull.

In September 2018, the members of the forum voted to change the name to PPG Forum; they felt this more accurately reflected the role of the forum.

At the November 2018 meeting, a patient co-chair was elected by the PPG Forum members. The successful person was Bernie Aucott, who is the vice-chair of Hall Green Health PPG.

At the January 2019 meeting it was agreed that it would be a positive idea for the CCG to support PPG members with training and development. This is going to start with a training session on chairing meetings. Interested PPG members are putting their names forward for this opportunity and the training will take part in March/April 2019.

Find out more

• View the agenda and minutes of meetings
• Read the PPG Forum terms of reference