IN support of National Patient Participation week, the Tavyside Patient Association (TPA) in Tavistock is inviting visitors to the surgery to pick up a 'Cup of Kindness' — a tea cup and saucer, tea bag and biscuit — and buy one in support of their fundraising efforts for the benefits of patients.

This is the first National Patient participation awareness and fundraising week, from June 1 to 8, organised by the National Association for Patient Participation (NAPP) charity, an umbrella body for patient-led groups in primary care. Working in partnership with GPs and practice teams, patient participation groups ensure the patients perspective is at the heart of local provision so that services are of high quality and continuously improve.

Groups also provide practical support in the surgery, foster improved communication between the practice and its patients and help patients to take more responsibility for their health.

On the notice board in Tavyside surgery waiting area is listed the equipment funded by the TPA's efforts and posters advertising their patient involvement events, such as the information about the Young Photographer of the Year Competition that has recently started and the fun quiz night planned for September 5.

The hope is that the photographic competition will introduce a less linical face of medical centres and their staff for younger people.

The TPA produces advertisements for patient information events that are often oppen to the general public. The garden and patio areas are provided and maintined by the committee as well and in tandem the West Dartmoor Art Group regularly change the pictures to help brighten patients' visits.

Visit the surgery to grab a 'cup of kindness' and help the TPA in their fundraising. For more information about NAPP visit http://www.napp.org.uk">www.napp.org.uk