Ashton Gardens Surgery values patient involvement and feedback. This page provides an update from the most recent Patient Participation Group (PPG) meeting and highlights areas where we are seeking greater patient involvement.
PPG Meeting – July 2025
A PPG meeting was scheduled for 22 July 2025. Unfortunately, no patients were able to attend on this occasion. We recognise that further work is needed to increase awareness of the PPG and encourage participation, and this will be discussed by the practice team.
Next meeting
Our next meeting is booked 4th Feb 2026 at 6:30pm, in the Practice main waiting room
Practice Updates Shared
Primary Care Network (PCN)
Ashton Gardens Surgery is currently part of a large Primary Care Network (PCN) in Havering. We are exploring options to move to a smaller PCN within Havering, which would allow us to have a stronger voice in decision-making and better tailor shared staff and resources to the needs of our patients.
Health Inequalities
We are taking part in a pilot project focusing on health inequalities, initially looking at access to cervical screening for Bangladeshi and Roma patients. Feedback from patients is welcome.
Therapeutic Champions
We are exploring the introduction of Therapeutic Champions to help patients access and benefit from services more effectively.
Other Practice Updates
- Digitisation of patient records is ongoing.
- Reception staffing has been increased.
- Missed appointments (DNAs) are increasing, and patient suggestions are welcome.
- Requests for double appointments are increasing, and clear information when booking is important.
- Social prescribing appointments currently have good availability.
- Phlebotomy capacity has been expanded.
Getting Involved
We would welcome more patients joining our Patient Participation Group. If you are interested or would like to provide feedback, please contact the practice.