A digital platform, where the public's experiences with health and care services can be shared, has gone live in South Lanarkshire.

South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) has officially launched Care Opinion, providing an online space for patients, service users, families, and unpaid carers to post their feedback and experiences.

The Partnership's Chief Officer, Professor Soumen Sengupta, said the collaboration will further strengthen a culture of transparency and transformation spanning a diverse range of services.

"Care Opinion will enhance our understanding of people's experiences with health and care," said Professor Soumen Sengupta.

"That’s crucial as it will not only help us build on our strengths but also identify areas where things may not be working as we would expect, allowing us to make targeted refinements and improvements wherever appropriate.

“These are exceptionally challenging times, but our staff and partners remain resolutely committed to delivering compassionate care. The use of Care Opinion will only further concentrate our focus on those at the heart of all our efforts."

 Care Opinion is based on simplicity:

• People share their experiences on the Care Opinion online platform.
• These stories can highlight various aspects of their health and care journey, such as the quality of care, communication, waiting times, facilities, and overall satisfaction.
• Once submitted, the stories are anonymised to protect privacy while maintaining the authenticity of the feedback.

 Health and social care providers have the opportunity to respond to these stories publicly, fostering transparent communication and enabling providers to address concerns, offer explanations, and express gratitude.

Claire Rae, Head of Health and Social Care for the Partnership, explained that the launch has been underpinned by diligent preparation.

"A core team has been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that staff across the breadth of our University Health and Social Care Partnership are trained and fully aware of the Care Opinion platform.

“The goal has been to ensure that, as we launch today, we are responsive to all those who engage with us. We look forward to embracing Care Opinion as part of our daily efforts in delivering safe, effective care to communities across South Lanarkshire."

Margaret Moncrieff, Chair of South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Forum, praised the Partnership for its collaboration with Care Opinion and urged the public to use the platform.

"People who engage with health and social care services, whether as carers, patients, or service users, typically share a common, fundamental need: to be heard. Care Opinion’s launch will strengthen the South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership 's ability to both listen and, where appropriate, act. I strongly encourage all recipients of health and care services in South Lanarkshire to use Care Opinion."

Note: members of the public who are participating in consultation with South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership on any specific matters relating to the sustainability and value programme should continue to use the specific channels as notified to them directly.