Aims of the network

•  To share learning between Neurological Voluntary Organisations in the South West on issues relating to the National Service Framework for Long Term Conditions (Neurological) and good practice.

•  To work together on common neurological issues and to collectively influence Health and Social Services at a strategic level across the South West, on the basis that the collective might of the network is likely to have more impact than individual attempts at influencing.

•  To identify gaps and overlaps in our influencing work, and develop a plan to address this.

•  To seek joint education and awareness-raising opportunities with health and social care staff.

•  To support each other by sharing information on resources, continuous professional development opportunities and skills.

Membership of the network

Membership of the alliance is open to any neurological voluntary organisation sector representative working in the South West.

Frequency of network meetings

Meetings will be held 3-4 times per year.

Chairing and administrative arrangements

The responsibility of chairing and taking minutes at each meeting will be shared between group members on a rotational basis.

Key relationships

•  Colleagues (whether employees or volunteers) in each respective organisation

•  Neuroscience networks

•  PCT commissioners

•  NSF leads in NHS South West and PCTs

•  Neurologists and other health and social care professionals providing services for people living with neurological conditions

Across the NHS South West, there are estimated to be nearly one million people living with some type of neurological condition. Check out the figures here: