The host organisation

The host organisation for the Kent LINk is Kent and Medway Networks - If you want to get involved contact them on 01303 297 050 or email info@kmn-ltd.co.uk

Funding from the Department of Health will be used to pay for something called a host organisation to set up and provide practical support to the LINk. The host will be accountable to the LINk.

The host organisation is independent from Kent County Council.

The host organisation will:

• hold the finances of the LINk (although actual decisions about spending will be the responsibility of the LINk)
• recruit LINk members
• support and promote the LINk's activities
• deal with the LINk's communication activities
• manage data and records
• provide advice and support to the LINk
• develop good working arrangements with local partners
• make sure equality legislation is met.

Key characteristics of a host are:

• familiarity with the current arrangements for supporting patient and public involvement forums in the area
• experience of involving a wide range of individuals and groups
• experience of using different ways of communicating (e.g. interpreters, sign language)
• experience of research methods (e.g. questionnaires, focus groups)
• experience of data collection and management
• enough time and resources to support the LINk
• understanding equality issues and legislation.