Members of the public are being asked by a new forum to get more involved in influencing how their health services are run.

The inaugural meeting of the Adur, Arun and Worthing Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) Steering Group was held at the headquarters of the primary care trust in Goring on July 29.

In January it became a legal duty for all health trusts to consult people on their services and on making changes to them.

Trust chief executive Steve Phoenix said: "As part of our long-term strategy, we are committed to ensuring PPI is a core part of trust business and to involve patients and the public in proposals, planning, developments and changes to services."

The PPI is chaired by Keith Mercer, a trained health advocate, and comprises a broad cross section of the community, including carers, people who are disabled, older people, representatives from the community health council, the Council for Voluntary Services and the NHS.

Ex-carer and PPI member Jean Bishop said: "The new working group has the opportunity to generate and stimulate the public's interest in the local delivery of all aspects of health care.

"It will also do all in its power to reach out and involve users of the service in decision-making and the development of innovative ideas.

"I look forward to the challenge ahead."

For further details, call Jessie Cunnett on 01903 708498.