HEALTH watchdog representatives and supporters travelled to Westminster for a mass lobby of parliament to prevent the government from abolishing community health councils (CHCs).

The theme of the lobbying was "watchdog not lapdog" and took place on February 14.

CHC supporters are against government plans to abolish CHCs next year under the health and social care bill which will mean patients will have to take their concerns to patient advocacy and liaison services.

Other bodies which would replace the roles currently undertaken by the CHCs are local authority scrutiny, independent local advisory forums and special advocacy services.

Donna Covey, director of the association of CHCs, said: "The mass lobby really demonstrated the strength of feeling that there is on this issue across the country. People want to keep their community health councils.

"Our lobby was attended by MPs from all parties; Liam Fox the shadow secretary of state for health, Paul Burstow liberal democrat health spokesperson, charities, professional bodies, the Law Society, parents from Alder Hey, pensioner groups and individuals who have benefited from their local CHC.