Celebrating Patient Participation Group (PPG) Awareness Week 2025!
The past year has been another busy and rewarding one for the Long Bennington Patient Participation Group (PPG). We have continued to act as a vital link between the medical centre and its patients.
Comprising six patients and three members of practice staff, our group works in close partnership with LBMC to maintain and enhance strong relationships among patients, GPs, and healthcare professionals. Our goal remains to represent patient views and support the continuous improvement of healthcare services and patient care in our community.
Another busy and rewarding year
Over the last 12 months, we have held nine regular meetings at the medical centre, typically on Wednesday mornings. During this time, we have collaborated on a range of initiatives aimed at supporting both patients and staff.
Our wellbeing walks
Our monthly Wellbeing Walks, held every third Wednesday at 10:45 am, continue to grow in popularity. In August 2024, we hosted our first “away” walk, welcoming 12 walkers, including three newcomers. These inclusive walks offer a safe and friendly environment for patients of all abilities. Led by our trained Walk Leaders, the routes vary in length and take place in all weather. Since March 2024, we’ve welcomed 157 participants, including 22 new walkers, and are celebrating our 27th walk this month. We now have eight established walking routes, and longer walks often include a social coffee stop—recently arranged with a local pub, creating a welcoming post-walk meeting point.
Long Bennington Medical Centre Dementia Group
The PPG also plays a critical role in supporting the our Dementia Group, working alongside Practice Care Co-ordinator Nicola Bland, Foston Neighbours, and Long Bennington Charities. Our members help set up the venue, serve refreshments, support activities, and provide companionship. This monthly group—held on the second Monday—is exclusive to LBMC patients and has been warmly received by patients and carers alike. Future plans for new activities in 2025 depend on anticipated funding from the Lincolnshire Co-op Community Champions scheme.
Patient feedback
In response to feedback from the walks and dementia group, we identified a need for shorter, one-to-one walks for patients with limited mobility. These walks have now been implemented and have been especially appreciated by those unable to manage the longer routes.
Four PPG members also provide home visits to patients who are housebound due to health or mobility issues. These visits offer a friendly face, social contact, and valuable information—such as guidance on claiming Pension Credit in time for the Winter Fuel Payment. These interactions have resulted in successful benefit claims and enhanced patient well-being.
Working together
Foston Neighbours continues to support us by supplying volunteers and welcoming walkers to their coffee mornings. Three PPG members also assist with Foston’s monthly lunch club, a cherished event attended by 30–40 elderly guests.
Supporting clinics and events
PPG members have also supported flu and Covid clinics, assisted at blood pressure clinics, and run “meet and greet” sessions to gather patient feedback. A recent survey led to 81 completed questionnaires and has already led to improvements in how LBMC communicates its services.
Lastly, we were proud to publish our second edition of the “Patient Focus” newsletter, available on the LBMC website.
Looking ahead, we remain committed to strengthening our PPG and promoting an inclusive and healthier community.
Find out more about Long Bennington Medical Centre- Patient Participation Group.
Find out more about Patient Participation Groups (PPG).