Community participation in health: how does it work?

This is a report of a campaign group, established among communities in two deprived areas of Liverpool in order to ensure the local community health centre remained open after plans to close it were revealed. The article describes the methodology applied, which put a heavy emphasis on the use of participatory approaches and the actual process of the campaign. The process resulted in the Health Centre staying open, with local participants having an input as to which GPs would be employed. In addition, participants experienced a boost of self-esteem and confidence, which, in some cases had a knock-on effect in other areas of their lives. However, the authors warn that the greatest challenge is sustaining local involvement. As members leave the group, disillusionment and exhaustion may set in.