Frequently Asked Questions

Get involved as an Individual

Many people in Darlington would like to influence health or social care services but may not have the time to join groups or sit on committees.

Darlington LINk will provide new ways for more people to contribute their views and experiences on health and social care services.

It will provide communities with a range of methods including the internet, focus groups, events, surveys/questionnaires to express their views.  Darlington LINk will also provide further opportunities for those who wish to get more involved in specific issues. Click here to see why you should volunteer with Darlington LINk

Why should you become involved with Darlington LINk?

Darlington LINk will provide opportunities for individuals, groups and organisations across our community to work together to make a difference.

In order for the LINk to reach its potential and provide an effective voice for the people of Darlington, it needs the expertise of local people, campaigners who use health and social care services and organisations who are experienced at representing their communities.

Working for your Community

There are many ways that you can support your local community by becoming involved with Darlington LINk.  For example, Darlington Primary Care Trust (PCT) review the health and social care needs of our community so that they provide the right services.  They are keen to make sure that people take part in the review so that nothing is missed out. Through its network of local groups and individuals, Darlington LINk will be able to find out the views of different sections of the community.

Through this approach, the LINk will be able to discover any particular communities within Darlington that may have issues with health and social care services.  It will also be able to help identify, through discussions with the community, the most appropriate solution.  As a result, the PCT and Local Authority can make the most appropriate decisions.

Get Involved as an Organisation

Many community organisations and groups within Darlington would like to be able to better influence health or social care services.

Darlington LINk will provide more ways for organisations and groups to become involved. As well as becoming a Darlington LINk member, you could also express your views through other mechanisms – such as the internet, focus groups and events.

Why should organisations and groups become involved?

Darlington LINk will provide opportunities for organisations and groups across our community to work together to make a difference. However, in order for the LINk to reach its potential and provide an effective voice for the people of Darlington, it needs the expertise of local organisations, groups and campaigners who use or represent those who use health and care services.