Like many of your readers I am interested in the formation of primary care groups - especially since the timescale for introducing them is relatively short.

I am not employed in the NHS, but as chair of a hospital league of friends for about 16 years, I am involved in the health service in a voluntary capacity.

As I understand it, PCGs are to be a partnership between GPs, community nurses, local authorities, health authorities, trusts and the voluntary sector.

I would very much like to attend some of the training seminars, but the fees charged are too excessive for voluntary organisations or individuals.

If it is truly the intention that the voluntary sector be involved, some thought should be given to giving a proportion of free places to such representatives.

S M Jackman

Ongar

Essex