'Patient-friendly' website launch

The website allows users to rate health services

A new website has been launched to let health staff share experiences of developing "patient-friendly" services.

Evolving Practice - developed by the Scottish Health Council (SHC) - highlights case studies of good practice from across the country.

Innovations in Dumfries and Galloway, the Scottish Borders and Shetland currently feature on the site.

The SHC said it hoped the website would be a "useful source of information" for staff and the general public.

Registration to the site is free and allows users to submit examples of their own work, as well as add comments and ratings to existing services.

'Real say'

Among the case studies included are the introduction of feedback cards for GP services in Dumfries and Galloway.

The involvement of patients in developing audiology in Shetland and a forum to give young people a greater say in health services in the Borders are also highlighted.

The site allows users to rate and recommend other websites relating to public involvement in the NHS.

SHC Director Richard Norris said it wanted patients, carers and members of the public to have a "real say" in health services.