Patients, visitors and members of the public are invited to take part in this year’s Patient-Led Assessments of the Care Environment (PLACE) initiative, taking place from 20 to 22 October 2026 at The Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, Essex.
PLACE assessments are an opportunity for people to give vital feedback on patient experiences, helping to ensure care is delivered in a clean, safe, and dignified setting.
Volunteers that take part, also known as patient assessors, visit the hospital to evaluate areas such as privacy and dignity, food quality, cleanliness, and the general condition of the buildings.
This important initiative is about listening directly to those who use the hospital’s services and using that feedback to drive real improvements.
Jo Ward, Chief Nursing Officer, said: “Providing compassionate, dignified care in a clean and welcoming environment is a fundamental part of delivering a positive experience for our patients.
“By working closely with patients and our local community through PLACE assessments, we gain valuable insight into what we are doing well and where we can make further improvements to ensure our environment continues to support high-quality care.”
PLACE assessments are carried out by hosptial staff and members of the public on a regular basis at NHS hospitals across the country. The results are published nationally and used to improve standards.
Anyone who uses NHS services can become a patient assessor – this includes current patients, carers, visitors, patient advocates, and local community representatives. No previous experience is necessary, and training will be provided.
If you are interested in wajoining the assessment team from 20 to 22 October, or would like more information, please email [email protected] with the subject heading PLACE and confirm the date(s) you would be available.