Sheffield volunteer group wins new health screening contract

A Sheffield voluntary organization will continue to scrutinize the city’s health and care services following a new 10-year contract.

Voluntary Action Sheffield (VAS) said extending its contract with Healthwatch Sheffield for another decade would give it the “stability” to continue its work.

Healthwatch lobbies on behalf of patients and the public to improve health and social services, regularly highlights key issues and reports to the NHS, Sheffield City Council and other organisations.

Healthwatch chief executive Lucy Davis said: “We firmly believe that if you listen to people and involve them in shaping services, those services will work more effectively.”

She added: “Our focus has always been on people – their experiences, needs and ideas for improvement.

“This long contract extension gives us the stability to continue and deepen this work, especially in communities where people have a harder time getting the right care and where health is poorer.”

VAS says it is a long-established charity supporting Sheffield’s voluntary and community sector. Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Helen Sims, CEO of VAS, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the contract with Healthwatch Sheffield for a further ten years.

“At VAS we are committed to ensuring that people in Sheffield have the opportunity to live healthy, fulfilling lives, realize their potential and thrive equally.”

Councilor Angela Argenzio, Chair of Sheffield City Council’s Adult Health and Social Care Committee, said: “Listening to the voices of local people is at the heart of what we do and Healthwatch Sheffield plays a vital role in representing their interests and being our critical voice. friend.

“It brings together the voices and opinions of people with lived experience, which is integral to helping us shape our services correctly.

“There are challenges to overcome, but working together with our partners like Healthwatch will ensure we continue to make positive changes.”

Listen to the highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Soundsstay up to date with the latest news episode of “Look North” or tell us the story you think we have to cover here.