The public of North Norfolk and rural Broadland are being offered the opportunity to discuss the proposed changes to the Benjamin Court Unit (BCU) near Cromer, with local clinicians and NHS managers.

The consultation demonstrates a vision of care for patients and suggests options for patient facilities, as well as the development of the new supported care service.

The options were developed by a steering group made up of local patients, doctors/nurses and managers.

Health chiefs say if changes go ahead, Benjamin Court will provide a health and community support hub comprising different types of beds and non-bed based NHS and voluntary sector services. This could include:

• Supporting patients and their family and carers to have the most comfortable and dignified end of life care;

• Helping people achieve the best quality of life;

?• Helping people to remain living independently;

• An advice and support hub that brings together the best of our local healthcare and wellbeing organisations under one roof.

GP Dr Anoop Dhesi, chair of North Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group and partner at Staithe Surgery Stalham, said; 'The views of local people are really important to us and we want as many people involved as possible to shape the service. The consultation document was prepared with the input from our Community Engagement Panel and our steering group so we are really keen to hear people's views on these proposals.'

The consultation is being led by NHS North Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group (NHS North Norfolk CCG).

Antek Lejk, chief operating officer for North Norfolk CCG added: 'We understand that no one likes change but we firmly believe that the options in the consultation document represent a real opportunity for us to improve care and we look forward to hearing the publics' thoughts at the event.

'Essentially we need to change the way the health system works and the CCG is committed to helping people stay out of hospital and continue living independently at home.'

The event, on Tuesday, August 29, between noon and 8pm at the Cromer Community Centre, will give an opportunity to hear about the proposed plans, ask questions and let the CCG hear their thoughts. For more, or to view the consultation document, click here.