Patient Participation Groups (PPGs)

About this Lunch & Learn

This Lunch and Learn training resource introduces Patient Participation Groups (PPGs) and explains how they support general practice by placing patients at the heart of service development. It outlines what a PPG is, how it functions, and the practical steps practices can take to establish, structure or relaunch a group.

The resource provides guidance on recruiting members, running meetings, gathering patient feedback and communicating with the wider patient population, including the use of virtual PPGs to widen participation.

It also explores how effective PPGs operate — including governance structures, roles, action planning and partnership working with practices and communities — alongside examples of activities and real impacts such as improving communication, supporting clinics, reducing isolation and influencing service improvements.

Do use with existing PPGs, patients and staff to encourage more involvement and stimulate interest so the vital patient voice is heard

Practice Feedback: “It’s great to have something for staff (particularly new staff) to inform them about PPGs as many staff from experience don’t know what these groups are or what the purpose of the group is”

Certificates of attendance are provided as part of the package, and don’t forget to log your learning points & reflections as part of your CPD. CQC are particularly keen to see any evidence of your learning and how you apply it.

You can access the files of any purchased package as often as you like from your Wessex LMCs account. We routinely maintain packages to keep them up-to-date. We recommend, therefore, that you don’t save your own versions, as these will not be updated automatically.

We welcome any feedback from you and your staff when you have run any of our Lunch and Learn training resources.

Please note: Paying via credit or debit card will permit immediate access. If paying via BACS, access will be granted once payment is received.

Dorset Integrated Urgent Care Service (DIUCS) members are entitled to free access from your training budget. Please select the BACS option when purchasing, then forward the payment confirmation email you receive to lead@wessexlmcs.org.uk who will provide you with access.