A GROUP aiming to improve the lives of older people is to join forces with other organisations to develop Healthwatch Devon, the independent consumer watchdog for health and social care.

Devon Senior Voice (DSV), the voluntary forum for the over-50s that has more than 2,000 members across the county, will work with the Community Council of Devon — the charity that advises and supports rural communities — CAB Devon, and patient participation groups to give everyone who uses health and social care services a powerful voice.    

Healthwatch, which will be in place by April 1, is being established at a local and national level as part of the new Health and Social Care Act. Healthwatch Devon will sit on Devon County Council's newly formed health and wellbeing board, drawing on the evidence of people's real experiences to help shape services.

Ken Crawford, the chair of DSV, said: 'Nearly three-quarters of health and social care spending is on older people, so it's important that in DSV we have our ear close to the ground through our strong grassroots network of members across Devon.

'We are proud of our efforts to bridge the generation gap with our intergenerational events, and to promote understanding of dementia through successful awareness days.

'As part of Healthwatch Devon, we will continue to actively seek views from all parts of the community — not only from those who shout the loudest, but also from those who struggle to be heard. 

'We are all determined to show that Healthwatch Devon is a watchdog with real teeth.'

 For further information phone 01803 732678 or visit http://www.seniorcouncildevon.org.uk">www.seniorcouncildevon.org.uk