Jemma Zata - Patient Involvement Facilitator / Family Liaison Officer

How does my role help people’s health and wellbeing?

Patients should be involved in how services are planned, delivered, and evaluated and my role focuses on involving patients, carers, and relatives in everything we do at South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (STHFT).

Not only does involving people have great benefits for the organisation and staff, it makes a real difference to individuals who receive care and treatment from us by giving them a voice. Ultimately, involving people in decisions about the healthcare services they use ensures services are effective, long-lasting, and right for those who use them!

Why becoming a champion?

I spend a lot of time engaging with local people who have or will use health care services.

I am grateful that people tell me about all aspects of health care and being a Healthwatch Champion ensures the feedback I hear, that does not relate to STHFT is utilised and doesn’t go unheard. Becoming a champion felt like a great opportunity to support Healthwatch’s mission to make sure people’s experiences help make health and care better.