NHS trust AGM to give update on 'financial challenges'

Dorset HealthCare, the NHS trust which provides services covering physical and mental health across the county, will be holding its Annual General Meeting.

The meeting will focus on how the trust is tackling what it refers to as ‘the financial challenges’ faced by all parts of the NHS, as well as ways that it is looking to develop its partnership with Dorset County Hospital (DCH).

Dorset HealthCare say that a closer collaboration between the organisations is starting to deliver benefits to patients, and will give a presentation to illustrate this from the joint neurological and stroke recovery service.

The free to attend two-hour meeting at Wareham Town Hall will start at 5pm on Thursday, September 26 and is open for anyone to attend.

Matthew Bryant, Joint Chief Executive of both trusts, will reflect on developments over the past year and look ahead to plans for 2025 before a report from Dorset HealthCare’s Council of Governors.

David Clayton-Smith, joint chair of Dorset HealthCare and DCH, will host the meeting.

He said: “There is a tremendous amount of change in the NHS at present, with lots of challenges but also great opportunities to review how we do things and provide improved care and support for the people we serve.

“Our Annual General Meeting offers local people a chance to find out more about what we are striving to do, give their views and ask questions about things that matter to them. We hope as many people as possible can join us on the day.”

A patient story video will play during the meeting, and showcase the kind of support available through trust services, while members of the public will have the chance to give their views in an electronic poll and to ask questions of the attending board members at the end of the meeting.

Whilst spaces for the event are free, places are limited. For more information on the talk, and to book a place, visit https://shorturl.at/Eykbh.