Major service change reports
The guidance followed in publishing this report has since been superseded by the Planning with People guidance
NHS Dumfries & Galloway's consultation on the plans for Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary
This report sets out our assessment of whether NHS Dumfries & Galloway's process for involving local people in the plans for a new Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary followed Scottish Government guidance, which requires that NHS boards seek, listen to and act on the views of potentially affected people and communities when proposing changes to services.
Based on the evidence outlined in this report, our view is that NHS Dumfries & Galloway has followed the national guidance set out by the Scottish Government.
NHS Dumfries & Galloway used a variety of methods to engage and consult with local people, including display stands, information materials, advertising, drop-in sessions and working with existing community groups.
The main issues raised by people during the consultation included the need for a new hospital, the geographical location, introduction of all single rooms, sufficient and free car parking, sufficient bed numbers, and no detrimental effect on the smaller hospitals.
Learning Points
We acknowledge the work undertaken by NHS Dumfries & Galloway in conducting this engagement and consultation, and the range of methods used. The NHS board engaged with us at an early stage in their process and this resulted in good and continuing communication. The board has agreed to take part in an after action review to explore any improvements in how we work together in future.
Specific learning points include:
- Making greater efforts to involve black and minority ethnic communities
- Using consistent language in consultation documents and materials, in order to avoid any confusion - particularly on key issues such as site locations
- Having public representation directly at Project Board level to help ensure that their views are considered