The PSP Coordinator

The Coordinator is responsible for the day-to-day running of the PSP. He or she will work closely with the Steering Group and is usually the main point of contact with the JLA Adviser. Tasks include organising Steering Group meetings, writing and following up on action notes, maintaining the PSP contacts database, managing communications with stakeholders and the community, organising the priority setting workshop and being the first port of call for enquiries. The Coordinator may also get involved with preparing a website, using social media to publicise the PSP, producing and publicising the survey and downloading the survey results ready for the Information Specialist.

The amount of time this coordination takes should not be underestimated. Typically, this involves a minimum of 1-2 days a week for the life of the project, with some periods being busier than others.

PSP coordination activities can vary and the time taken for these activities may also depend on the ability and willingness of members of the PSP Steering Group to take on tasks such as communicating with patient, carer and clinician groups, or focusing on social media.

Some larger PSPs have employed a Coordinator for this role, other smaller groups have been supported by someone already available in their own organisation.

Ideally one person or organisation on the Steering Group should undertake the administration and coordination of a PSP. The value of this vital role being done centrally and consistently throughout the process cannot be overstated.