Co-production and quality improvement go hand-in-hand. We spoke with B, a person supported at Ballington House, about the role she has been playing in QI projects at the service and advocating for the voices of fellow patients to be heard.
“I have been supported at Ballington House for three years. I always want to strongly advocate for patients’ voices. I think it’s not possible to put together a full QI project without gathering the views of patients and having them say their piece from their point of view.
“In my QI work, I’ve inputted and given feedback on different things and I’ve encouraged others to do the same. Where change is needed, we can be really key in sharing what’s happening on the ward honestly and transparently, and that is the best way to effect real and meaningful change.
“It’s a real team effort. For there to be real and meaningful change, everyone has to come together – patients and staff – to share their experiences and views. I wouldn’t be able to change anything on my own, but together we can work together to make those changes.
“I’ve worked on QI projects that have made a difference on the ward at Ballington House and improved the experience for other patients, and I’m looking forward to my next project. I’ve also heard from other patients that they are taking a more proactive role – speaking up when they have seen something which needs to change.
“This is never about blame or trying to get anyone into trouble. This is about improving quality for everyone – patients and staff.
“I try to be active in different ways – patient representation, planning governance and organising events. It’s important to do things that interest me, and it’s good to do things which have the potential to improve things for everyone.”