NHS Youth Forum surveys launch to improve services for young people

The Society of Radiographers is calling for children and young people to complete a series of surveys created by the NHS Youth Forum in order to improve services.

Consisting of 25 young people from across the country, the Youth Forum comes together to deliver insights and recommendations on quality improvement targeted towards younger patients. 

Surveys close early October, when the Youth Forum will evaluate the findings and produce their final reports.

The views of young people 

This year the NHS Youth Forum has partnered with policy leads from across NHS England to develop surveys to gather the views of other young people across England. Previously, these surveys have received nearly 1,000 responses.

Sue Johnson, professional officer for clinical imaging at the SoR, stressed the importance of not overlooking diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy services when considering the overall care of children and young people.

She said: “By completing the surveys, we can identify areas for improvement for the many children and young people who use our services and whom we care for daily.”

The full list of surveys in need of response include:

1. Mental Health 

Seeking experiences from young people using mental health services in England, the survey hopes to collaborate with NHS England Policy teams and Barnardo's to create long-lasting change within NHS mental health services. 

Responses are welcome from any background and anyone who has experience with mental health services aged between 11-25 years old. Four sections are included within: neurodivergence within mental health services; waiting lists and immediate support; treatment and communication within mental health services; your knowledge about mental health resources and the support that is out there.

To complete the Mental Health survey, click here. 

2. Transitions

Transitional care is the movement to adult-centred services while exiting child hospital care systems. The forum is seeking to understand experiences, so care can be improved across the nation and more consistent care can be provided. 

Feedback will be used anonymously, within a report going directly to hospital transition teams and NHS England as well as supporting the forum to co-produce resources for future patients. Patients aged 11-30, with or without experience of transitional care, are invited to complete the survey.

To complete the Transitions survey, click here.

3. Workforce

As the NHS Long-Term Workforce Plan sets out future requirements and the need for entry career opportunities at all levels, the Youth Forum is seeking the perspective of young people on these issues.

This includes their needs and preferences, their perception of the NHS, and their awareness about recruitment and careers in the NHS.

To complete the Workforce survey, click here.

4. New Hospitals

The government has pledged to build 40 new hospitals by 2030, so the Youth Forum is asking for children and young people to share their opinions on hospital design and structure, with the aim of improving patient care and satisfaction within the NHS.

To complete the NHS New Hospitals survey, click here.

Applications for the NHS Youth Forum are currently open. You can find more information, including how to apply, on the Barnardo’s website.

More information about the NHS Youth Forum can be found here.

(Image: Getty Images)