2nd March 2023
NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB) will soon be entering into the pre-election period. This will have an impact on the way that the ICB is able to go about its work.
The pre-election period, sometimes called “purdah,” occurs in the run-up to local and national elections. It begins at the very latest from 6 weeks prior to the election date. This year elections take place on 4 May. The ICB will begin observing the pre-election period from Thursday 16th March in line with the launch of local election timetables.
All public sector bodies, which includes the NHS, local and district authorities, and government departments, are legally required to follow certain restrictions in the run up to and during an election. This is in place to ensure the activities of public bodies do not have an influence on the outcome of elections.
During this period public bodies are restricted from publicly discussing, issuing publicity, or engaging with the public, on any decisions that might be regarded as politically sensitive or controversial, such as making or promoting changes to services.
In line with pre-election guidance, the ICB will not be able publicise any consultation and engagement activities during this period, which commences on 16 March. It is important that the ICB, as a public body and as a member of the Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System, acts in a politically neutral manner.
The ICB is currently running a consultation on options for general practice services in the greater Norwich area when the contract for the Norwich Walk-in Centre, Vulnerable Adults Service – Inclusion Health Hub, and GP Practice on Rouen Road expires in 2024. Please note that this consultation does not cover other general practices in the Norwich area.
The consultation launched on 24 January and will remain open until 26 March 2023. Entering into the pre-election period does not change the dates the consultation is live.
How to take part
The ICB is encouraging patients that utilise the services and the wider public to continue to take part in the consultation until the closing date of 26 March.
Complete the survey online here, or download copies of the consultation document, Summary, and Easy Read Survey from the consultation webpage.
Paper copies, translations, and alternative formats of any of the consultation documents can be made available upon request by:
Email: nwicb.contactus@nhs.net
Telephone: 01603 595857
Post: NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICB, County Hall, Martineau Lane, Norwich, NR1 2DH.