Local Involvement Networks are supported by a Host organisation that helps the LINk develop and report back on local needs and concerns to service providers and commissioners. The LINk in Kensington & Chelsea is ‘hosted’ by Hestia and is supported by two (full time equivalent) staff members:

Community Engagement Manager: Ms Paula Murphy (p/t Hammersmith & Fulham)

Community Engagement Coordinator: Ms Mel Christodoulou (p/t H&F)

P/T Development Officer (Older People & Reading Group): Ms Jashmin Patel (1 day p.w.)

P/T Development Officer (Mental Health & Outreach): Ms Juliet Hammond (one day per wk)

P/T Development Officer (Disability & Cancer): Ms Ijeoma Igwume (one day per wk)

P/T Administrator: Ms Simmone Hall (p/t H&F)

Their role as Host staff is to:

1. Make sure the LINk is reaching every one in the borough
2. Make sure the LINk acts within the remit of the law
3. Act as a custodian of the underpinning values and principles of the LINk
4. Advise the LINk Management Committee and Sub-groups based on its role as an ‘honest broker’
5. To ensure full representation and that the LINk is acting in the interests of its members and the wider community
6. Facilitate public and steering group meetings
7. Write reports on the activities and findings of the LINk
8. Advertise and raise awareness of the LINk
9. Act as custodians of the LINk finances in consultation with the Management Group
10. Advise the LINk of relevant changes in policy and procedure in Health and Social Care
11. Facilitate the dissemination of outcomes, good practice, learning and evaluation.

We are also delighted to be supported by the following project staff (external funding):

Ms Anna Rooke, Dignity Champion Facilitator

Ms Sonya Chee, Patient Engagement Project Worker

Ms Sakinah Aitlhadj, Apprentice