The objective is to provide public scrutiny to the provision of GP training in Dorset. Lay members are able, as a individuals outside the medical profession, to observe, comment and report upon the training provided in Dorset. They attend practice visits and recruitment events. The lay visitor role should increase public confidence in the robust recruitment process and the detailed training and assessment which takes place in Dorset. There is a public perception of the medical profession perhaps being less transparent than other professions and the role of the lay visitor should belie that perception through the inspection process.

The Dorset GP Team currently has three lay members. Andrew Smeatham has a background in secondary school education.  Kate Osborne, has a background in law, finance and more recently with the probation service and Ruth Cargill has a background of practice management. Lay members accompany lead visitors and trainers on practice approval and re-approval visits.

Kate Osborne - I was appointed as a Lay Visitor for the Wessex Deanery at the start of 2010. My main career is working for Dorset County Council on their Looked After Children Education team. I am a Law graduate who worked in finance until the birth of my second daughter who has cerebral palsy. As a result I have subsequently worked part-time, including as a Board Member for the Dorset Probation Service, working as a lay member and chairing their Audit Committee for four years. My exposure to the health service has therefore been extensive. My youngest daughter is now eight and has regular appointments and treatment with a wide range of health professionals, especially our GP. I am passionate about the quality of the GP service provided in Dorset, and by direct extension, the training provided to the GP trainees.