Transforming Community Services
The CSP has issued a new briefing for stewards in England following the Department of Health's publication of guidance on the assurance and approval process for PCT-delivered community health services.
Stewards should consult the above briefing and previously issued [2009] joint union briefing urgently.
Both relate to Transforming Community Services (TCS) which is a Department of Health policy document aimed at supporting English Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) in making their own local decisions on the future governance and organisational models of community services in their area. This includes how PCTs should approach separating their provider function from their commissioning function (eg by commissioning services from alternative non-traditional providers).
The NHS trade unions, including the CSP, and the TUC believe that staff and trade union involvement in decision-making is vital to ensure that changes to local health services represent the best interests of both NHS patients and staff.
Stewards are requested to:- Read urgently the CSP guidance and also consult the joint union guidance
- In partnership with staff side colleagues, review your level of understanding and discuss joint concerns
- Use the guidance as a checklist when approaching your employer about any issues that you face
- Keep your Senior Negotiating Officer informed of any key developments
