"With my direct payment, I am in control of my care and my life. I choose who comes into my home and what they do to support me."
There are two elements to the right to be involved. Often people are experts in their own condition or the condition of people they care for. Their views must be taken seriously by professionals as they can have valuable insight to add.
People are also citizens and part of the wider community. They should have the right to be consulted and involved about decisions that affect health and social care services in their area.
What this could mean in practice
If you are a young person with a mental health condition, your ideas, opinions and concerns should be treated on an equal basis with the professionals when planning how you will be supported in the future.
If you are at the end of your life, your family and your doctors should listen to your wishes and make sure you have the support and care you need to die at home, if you want to.
If your council is closing a community centre for older people in your area, they should ask your opinions about the future of the service and keep you updated on what is happening and how your views have affected their decisions.
Join the conversation
Tweet your thoughts using @HealthwatchE, or contact your local Healthwatch to share your thoughts and experiences. Some questions to get you started:
- What does the right to be involved mean to you?
- How do you see this right working in the real world?