The Great Western Hospital Patient and Public Involvement Forum will meet on Wednesday, February 16.

The forum is independent of the hospital and meets in public every two months.

At the start of the meeting in Room G44 at New College, Queens Drive, at 2.30pm the public can raise general concerns or issues regarding the Great Western Hospital.

There will also be an opportunity for the public to meet members of the forum and find out more about their role at the Great Western Hospital's open day on Saturday, February 26. The forums play a vital role in making sure patients' and the public's views are heard and acted on by all those involved in making decisions.

The functions of the forums have been laid down by law so they can make a difference.

They are not just a discussion group. Forum chairwoman, Sue Pye, said: "I do hope Swindon people come along to talk to us, find out more about the work of the forum and raise any concerns they have with us.

"This would help us to carry out our role, acting as a voice for patients in Swindon."

To raise any issues about the hospital contact James or Luisa at the HAP office on 0845 601 5859 or email:jamesbates@ hapforums.co.uk or luisacrook@ hapforums.co.uk

There is a website at: www.hapforums.co.uk