- This page has been taken from Encephalitis – a guide, which is available from our
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Patient Advice and Liaison Services (PALS):
PALS are a central part of the new system of Patient and Public Involvement in England.
They are available in all trusts.
PALS act on behalf of NHS users and handle patient and family concerns. They liaise
with staff, managers and, where appropriate, other relevant organisations, to negotiate
speedy solutions and to help bring about changes to the way that services are delivered.
PALS provide:
- confidential advice and support to patients, families and their carers
- information on the NHS and health related matters
- confidential assistance in resolving problems and concerns quickly
- information on and explanations of NHS complaints procedures and how to get in touch
with someone who can help
- an early warning system for NHS Trusts, Primary Care Trusts and Patient and Public
Involvement Forums by monitoring trends and gaps in services and reporting these
to the trust management for action
If PALS are unable to resolve your concerns or you have concerns of a more serious
nature then please see the Appendix at the end of this Guide on Medico-legal investigations
which also has a section on the NHS Complaints Procedure.
Another good source of information for Patients who wish to complain is:
The Patient’s Association: Telephone: 0845 6084455 or visit:
www.patients-association.org.uk
If you require the services of a solicitor experienced in dealing with cases of
Encephalitis, the Encephalitis Society can provide the name of a solicitor who may
be able to help you.
Last modified: July 2009