A network which gives residents a stronger voice in how health services are delivered said its role will be more important than ever as the Government cuts public spending.

Hounslow Local Involvement Network (LINk), which independently monitors healthcare providers and holds them to account, said it will be an “absolute priority” that patients and its members are “not forgotten from plans”.

Bob Hardy-King, chairman of Hounslow LINk, said it was “vitally important” people are able to share their views on NHS changes and moves towards community-based services.

He said: “There have been many changes in the NHS in the last three years. Many of them have been slipped in with very little consultation or involvement of the public.

“I know that changes are necessary to build a world class health service, but it is the public who use the services and they have a right to be engaged in proposed changes.

“We need members of the public to come to our public meetings to get their input so that we represent them properly. Our challenge is to ensure the people of Hounslow play a key role in the commissioning and provision of services. With public interest and involvement we will speak with a stronger voice.”

Hounslow LINk increased its membership from 200 to about 380 in the last year, and works with more than 41 voluntary organisations.

It has held open public meetings on a range of social and health concerns, including mental health services and social care, and has represented the community on Hounslow Council partnership boards for stroke strategy, sensory services, adults and older people, and the wellbeing group.

LINk also challenged NHS Hounslow about its plans to restructure services for diabetes, dermatology and sexual health into the community. Its key aims for next year include increasing involvement of under-represented parts of the community.

John Hunt, a member of the LINk steering group, said progress on care for people at the end of their lives has been “frustratingly slow”, and urged patients, families, friends and carers to voice their opinions. He said: “As Hounslow is reducing funding generally, prospects seem bleak.”

Mr Hardy-King called for patients to join Hounslow LINK and share their experiences of using health services such as doctors, dentists, opticians and hospitals.

For more information, go to hounslowlink.org.uk