Oldham can lead the way

OLDHAM is hoping to lead the way in how health services are commissioned in the borough.

The Government has asked local authorities and NHS trusts to become early implementers of new Health and Wellbeing boards.

The boards, which will be established in each local authority area across the country, will help councils and NHS organisations, such as the new GP Consortiums, work together to make health services more effective for their communities.

Oldham Council, NHS Oldham, the Local Involvement Networks (LINk) plus the voluntary, community and faith sectors have now officially stated their interest in becoming and early implementer.

Oldham Council’s deputy leader Jackie Stanton is Cabinet member for adults and health.

She said: “This is an excellent opportunity to further develop our thinking and practice alongside North-West colleagues to deliver the best outcomes for local citizens.”

Chadderton GP, Dr Ian Wilkinson, is chairman of the Commissioning for Oldham Group (COG), part of the GP Commissioning Consortia which will take over the running of health services in the borough once NHS Oldham is disbanded in 2013.

He said: “If we are chosen as an early implementer for our Health and Wellbeing Board this will help confirm that we’re right to be ambitious for our town. It would also demonstrate our commitment to joining forces for the benefit of local people.”