Website of the Department of Health

Patient and public involvement is one of the core principles underpinning the new approach to service change. 

Local council overview and scrutiny committees have to be consulted on proposals for major service change.  The document listed below sets out the statutory guidance which is issued under section 38 of the Local Government Act 2000 and provides advice and recommendations on the undertaking of scrutiny of health services for both local authority overview and scrutiny committees and NHS organisations.

The possibility of judicial review can be a source of concern for health communities planning change.  The Judge Over Your Shoulder, published by the Treasury Solicitor, is a layman's guide explaining what judicial review is and how it can affect decision-making.  It is not a legal textbook nor a substitute for legal advice, but a handy guide for those unfamiliar with the process.  It was published in 2000, and the content pre-dates the Human Rights Act.