PLANS for a new independent body to represent the interests of the public in health and social care may dilute, rather than strengthen, patients’ influence on the services they receive, fears a Gwent NHS watchdog.

A proposal for a ‘citizens voice body’ for health and social care issues is published in a new Welsh Government White Paper.

It would involve the abolition of community health councils (CHCs), which as independent patients’ watchdogs for more than 40 years have provided complaints advocacy services for patients, and monitored NHS services across Wales.

Aneurin Bevan CHC, which represents patients in Gwent, calls the White Paper proposal “the most radical change to the patient’s voice in the NHS in over 40 years.”

Its chairman John Pearce said CHCs “welcome the intention to create a stronger citizen voice in health and social care.”

But he added that there is deep concern about how this might be achieved.

“We are yet to be convinced that the proposals outlined will achieve the desired solution and will dilute rather than strengthen this voice in some important areas,” said Mr Pearce.

“For example, the proposed new citizens voice body would not have legal rights to hold health organisations to account for the way in which they deliver their services.

“This is currently a key role of CHCs.”

He urged people in Gwent to study the proposals - contained in documents at https://consultations.gov.wales/consultations/services-fit-future - and to give their opinion on how they believe their voices should be heard in future. The consultation runs until Friday September 29.

There are seven CHCs in Wales scrutinising the services provided by health boards.

Proposing the setting up of a new citizen voice body, the White Paper states that there is concern that CHCs duplicate the inspection work of other bodies, while their geographical set-up creates challenges in regard to cross-boundary working, and service change in health and social care.