The Really Important Questions (RIQ) Network

• What is the 'Really Important Questions' (RIQ) Network?
• Why should you get involved?
• What is the RIQ annual conference all about?
  

What is the 'Really Important Questions' (RIQ) network?

The RIQ Network was formed after the first "Really Important Questions" Conference held in October 2000.

The RIQ Network is made up of older people aged 50 +, who are interested in social care or health services and improving the quality of life for older people. Members might be using services now, care for an older person using services, or may need services in the not too distant future. There are currently over 200 members on the mailing list.

The RIQ Network meets as a Forum four times a year at Dukinfield Town Hall, with about 60-80 older people attending each Forum. There are opportunities to find out about developments in health and social care services, meet with and question managers about how services work and have an input into planning and monitoring services. RIQ welcomes people from all communities in Tameside and can provide language support to those who need it. Assistance to disabled or frailer older people who would like to attend can also be provided.

One of the key roles of the RIQ Network is to ensure that the views and experiences of older people contribute to the planning and development of local health and social care services and other services that support older people.

RIQ has representatives on key committees, project management groups and other working groups concerned with services to older people. RIQ members have begun to work with the Joint Commissioning and Performance Management Team in contract preparation, review and tendering. RIQ is also involved in the Older People’s Training Programme at Tameside Hospital helping to deliver age discrimination training to medical staff.

Why should you get involved?

RIQ members agree that being able to 'have your say' and being able to influence the planning of services is a rewarding and stimulating experience. Many say it has changed their lives and for the first time, they feel they are really making a difference. Some have learnt new skills and done things they had never done before. They have felt it worthwhile by having their experience and skills recognised and valued.

What is the annual RIQ Conference all about?

The RIQ annual conference gives older people in Tameside an opportunity to gather together to discuss health, social care and quality of life issues. This large event brings together managers of local services and older people in the community, and is a chance for older people to share their ideas about how services should develop and to find out about services that support older people.

The programme includes keynote speakers, a choice of workshops covering a wide range of topics, and information stalls from key agencies and organisations. There is also an opportunity to ask questions and to talk with senior managers about the operation of their services.

If you would like to have your say or get involved in developing better services, you are welcome to join the "Really Important Questions" (RIQ) Network.

Watch a DVD on one of our previous conferences.

For further information, please contact: The Development Officer for Older People.

Contact Information
Send us a Message	Tameside Adult Services Development and Customer Support Unit Rydal House Rydal Avenue Hyde SK14 4QB View local map
0161 366 4333
0161 366 4334