Overview
An Authorised Representative (AR) is a member of the Healthwatch Derbyshire team who participates in Enter and View activities on a voluntary basis.
Enter and View visits are conducted by two or more trained ARs who visit health and social care services to observe and assess the service being provided; write a report stating their findings from the evidence they collect, with suggestions for improvements which becomes a public document; and follow-up suggested recommendations where necessary.
Key tasks
Prepare for visits to health and social care services by researching and reading background information about the service being visited. (e.g., CQC Report, Website)
Take part in the visit looking at all aspects of the service provided, observing, and noting relevant information, talking to staff, relatives and service users about the service
Write up a report after the visit
Take part in follow-up visits, after an initial visit has taken place, where recommendations are made.
Take part in training sessions relevant to the Enter and View programme.
Contribute to the development of the Enter and View programme.
Key Skills and requirement for the role
Some knowledge and understanding of how health and social care services are run. This could be through:
working in a particular service area, or
a general understanding/experience as a carer or service user, or
from an interest in this area.
Commitment to improving the lives of others
Good interpersonal skills with the ability to work within a team
Good communication skills and the ability to talk and listen to all people
Understanding of the importance of confidentiality
Excellent written English skills to be able to write reports. An understanding of written Health Literacy is desirable.
Willingness to undergo training relevant to this role
Able to commit at least one to two days every other month to volunteering in this role.
What would you gain?
Free training for the role will be provided
Use your skills and experience to contribute to the success of Healthwatch across Derbyshire.
Experience of working with health and social care organisations
Knowledge and understanding of how health and social care services are planned, delivered, and commissioned.
References to add to your CV
Support from Healthwatch Derbyshire staff team
Be part of a team of volunteers (receive peer support as part of this) and meet new people
Increase your confidence and gain new skills including ongoing development and training
Understanding of the functions of Healthwatch.
