PATIENTS and relatives have a new NHS pal, in the form of a confidential help, advice and support service, which is being relaunched this month.

PALS will be led by Sue Home (right), the patient and liaison service development manager for the South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust and will help guide them through the different services available.

She said: "I am pleased to be taking on to this very important role.

"PALS will be focusing on improving the service to NHS patients.

"People often need help and support when they use health services and sometimes, they need assistance straight away but don't know where to go or who to approach for help.

"The service will be easily accessible and patients only need to make one call about their issue.

"We can then provide information and help needed to resolve their concerns quickly and link into other health care agencies, Social Services and District Councils where necessary." she added.

Anyone in need of confidential advice, support or information, or may wish to make any suggestions, can contact Sue on 0800 917 7919 or by e-mailing pals@sworcs-pct.nhs.uk.