PEOPLE with any injury, disease or problem relating to muscles, bones or joints are being consulted about their health care.

Healthwatch Halton, the consumer champion for health and social care and Halton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is giving people the opportunity to help shape the musculoskeletal (MSK) service.

Statistics show that one in five GP consultations in Halton are related to these conditions, with around 8,000 referrals to the community MSK service.

More than 1,000 patients then seek further treatment in hospital.

Dr Cliff Richards, a Brookvale GP and chairman of Halton CCG, said: “With an ageing population we need MSK services that are not only enabled to cope with this demand but can meet patient expectations and make significant improvements to the outcomes of their health.

“However, for us to do this effectively we need input from our patients to help us fully understand what the service requirements need to be.

“In collaboration with Healthwatch Halton we have organised a free event that will provide an opportunity for attendees to contribute to the project by sharing experiences and having a say in how they would like to see future services shaped.”

The event will be held on Wednesday, December 10 from 9am to 12.30pm at Select Security Stadium Halton, Lowerhouse Lane, Widnes, WA8 7DZ.

For further information, or to confirm your place at the event, contact Healthwatch Halton on 0300 777 6543 or email lwilliams@healthwatchhalton.co.uk.