On the 3rd July I went to York to attend a meeting with the Quality Checkers from the North region. The Quality Checkers are a team of individuals who have lived experience of learning disabilities and being supported by United Response. They do important work visiting services within United Response to check that they are suitable, safe and that the people using the services are happy.

Using lived experiences for the quality checking is crucial as they know best what services should be like. Within United Response using co production and co development within our systems is something we are hugely passionate about. The quality checkers work with the quality audit team, led by Matt Hill, and they will go to services around the country. We need this so we can ensure people we support are feeling secure and calm.

What happened at the meeting?

The meeting felt positive and I left feeling inspired and empowered by the disabled people that were there. The quality checkers feel supported and were engaged throughout. The quality checkers champions were also there to help with any support needs.

I spoke to several quality checkers there including Ted and Ian. The quality checkers is a great addition to the range of sources that already exist to collaborate and they are integral to United Response.

Within the meeting we reviewed an easy read booklet which explains how we can help make sure the support we give to the quality checkers is good, as well as explaining the roles of quality checkers. There was also a discussion held about feedback on materials for the quality checker visits and how the visits were going.

A presentation was given from the audit team for an introduction to their team and how they work. I’m excited for future meetings and helping to positively develop our services.

The next meeting will be held on 9th October. If you have any questions about how the quality checkers work please get in touch with nikki.jones@unitedresponse.org.uk