Cornwall’s Young Voices Wanted to Shape Hospital Care

Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT) is creating a new Young Person’s Patient Council and is inviting children and young adults aged 10 to 25 to get involved.

Giving Young People a Say

The Trust wants to hear from young patients, relatives of patients, and those interested in healthcare careers who are keen to share their experiences and ideas to help make hospital care more youth-friendly and effective.

The aim is to give young people a voice in how services are designed and delivered at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, ensuring that care better reflects the needs and priorities of younger patients.

Introductory Event in Truro

Anyone interested in joining can sign up for an introductory event on Wednesday 12th November 2025, taking place from 4pm to 6pm at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro. Food and refreshments will be provided, and travel costs can be covered to ensure the event is accessible for everyone who wants to attend.

Inspired by Success in Plymouth

The idea for the Young Person’s Patient Council is being led by Dr Natasha Sauven, consultant community paediatrician, and Carrie Jones, Matron for Child Health.

“We’re really excited about the prospect of setting up a Young Person’s Patient Council at RCHT,” says Dr Natasha Sauven. “We’ve seen how it works at the University Hospital Plymouth and the amazing improvements to waiting rooms, wards, treatments, and technology, which have been made. It would be incredible if we can emulate their success in Cornwall.”

Listening to Cornwall’s Young Patients

Bernadette George, Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Care Professionals at RCHT, added:
“The voice of the patient is so important when it comes to delivering safe and compassionate care, and none more so than our younger patients and their parents. This is a wonderful opportunity to give Cornwall’s youngsters a purposeful voice, especially those who spend time in hospital, and for us to get to know and act on their worries or wish lists so that, as at Trust, we can improve our patient services for everyone.”

How to Get Involved

Anyone who would like to know more or sign up for the launch event on 12th November can email rcht.adolescent.team@nhs.net or use the QR code featured on the posters.