'Getting Connected' with the NOC's keynote speaker

 

OT caught up with Ms Robinson to find out why she thinks ‘Getting Connected’ in the new NHS is so important for eye care professionals. 

 

In my whole NHS background, having held various chief executive positions in the NHS and from founding NHS Networks 10 years ago, I have believed passionately in a democratic NHS where people can make their voices heard. In terms of the NHS reforms this means that my work is to connect the voices of GPs to the professional institutions, such as the British Medical Association and the Royal Colleges. One of the main ways I do this is through a ‘soft’ intelligence monthly report, sent to David Nicholson, chief executive of the NHS, and Andrew Lansley MP, secretary of state for health, which collates the views of people throughout the NHS – from individual interviews to going to events and listening to the views on the NHS Network.  

 

Networks often start with enthusiasm but need – more importantly than money – people and time to make them sustainable and work over the long-term. It is absolutely critical that they are not hierarchical to ensure that people feel satisfied that their views are heard. Always valuable, they bring particular benefits to people working at a time of transition.  

 

People feeling that their voices are heard. When speaking at the NOC, I will make it clear that I want to hear from the delegates about their thoughts, concerns and experiences. I hope as many of them as possible take the chance to ‘get connected’ and come along. 

 

Jenny Manchester, LOCSU communications manager, told OT: “LOCSU will once again be supporting Local and Regional Optical Committees which will receive one place free of charge. Costs have been kept the same for a second year running. All costs for resident delegates include accommodation and food for a two night stay starting on the evening of Wednesday October 17. Also, included in the ticket is an invitation to attend the formal black-tie AOP Awards dinner on the Thursday evening. This is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the profession over the past year.”

 

Booking for the NOC 2012 has now opened. Visit www.locsu.co.uk to book and to view the draft programme.

 

For an NOC resident delegate, the cost is £540 (including VAT). 

For an NOC Resident Spouse/Partner, the cost is £140 (including VAT).

For a non-resident NOC delegate, the cost is £330 (including VAT).

 

 

 

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