They both volunteer within our Patient and Public Panel which gives people from our communities the chance to share their views and help shape our services. As one of our youngest volunteer members, Bati has dedicated many hours supporting different projects and helping us improve our services.

Shirley has also given hours of her time helping us to support our Chinese communities increasing awareness of ambulance services, arranging life saving skills training, taking part in filmed patient stories, and translating and increasing awareness of Chinese culture.

The opportunity to attend the prestigious event came after organisations and trusts were invited by NHS England to submit nominations for colleagues and volunteers to attend. Nominations were then reviewed by NHS England, with only four places available for representatives from the North West to attend.

Bati says, “The reception was an exciting opportunity to meet people from across the UK working in different sectors such as the NHS and local councils, and from many different backgrounds. We enjoyed a traditional Chinese lion dance, followed by a reception with food and drinks.

“It was nice to congregate and celebrate the Lunar New Year together, which Shirley and I enjoyed! Thank you to North West Ambulance Service for nominating us and allowing us to be part of this amazing, rare opportunity.”

Our Patient and Public Panel offers meaningful opportunities to influence improvements in our emergency, patient transport and 111 services. We are recruiting members now.