Carers and people who receive care are wanted to join an on-line group that could change the way services are delivered.

The county council's new Social Care E-Panel gives members chance to have their say from the comfort of their home or anywhere else they can get PC access. And you don't even have to be able to use a computer yet, because training can be provided.

People of all ages are wanted to join the panel. They will be invited to get involved in decision-making on a wide range of topics ranging from home care to transport to day care services.

County Councillor Susan Woodward, the county council's Cabinet Member Healthier Communities and Older People said: "This is an ideal way for carers and people receiving care to have real influence. The E-Panel is ideal because members can choose to have their say in a place and at a time that is really convenient for them.

"We realise that many people may feel this is not for them because they don't know how to use a computer. That is why we will offer training and PC access. Age and disability should not be a bar to learning new skills for most people, and many people who have overcome their initial nervousness about getting on-line eventually find it really liberating and fun."

Members of the E-panel will receive regular questionnaires on ways services can be improved, and can even have a say on what the next subject could be. They can even go "off-topic" and make any suggestions they think could improve things for themselves, the people they care for or those receiving their care.

County Councillor Woodward added: "We will value the contributions of carers and those receiving care equally. There may be people who think that their opinions don't count, but this is a fantastic way of putting that right."

Anyone interested in the E-Panel can contact Amanda Terry on 07815 827751 (mobile) or e-mail amanda.terry@staffordshire.gov.uk.

Last Modified: 25/09/2008 12:18:22
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