Citizens’ Jury lead new approach to pain management

Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria (HI NENC) is pleased to share progress on our Citizens’ Jury on Pain Management, a collaborative initiative to shape the future of persistent pain care in our region.

Who is on the citizens’ jury?

We have successfully recruited a diverse group of 14 jurors, including individuals with and without lived experience of persistent pain.

What’s happened so far?

The jury has completed three online sessions, where they heard from high-profile expert witnesses who presented a wide variety of evidence and viewpoints on persistent pain management.

These sessions have provided a strong foundation for informed discussions, ensuring the jury is well-equipped to address this critical healthcare challenge.

There have also been two face-to-face sessions where jurors have built on the evidence and come up with recommendations that will help shape NHS services to better support people living with persistent pain and reduce reliance on opioid medications.

 When will we share the outcome?

The recommendations from the Citizens’ Jury will be shared in July 2025, offering valuable insights to inform NHS pain management policies in the North East and North Cumbria.

Why do this matter?

Professor Julia Newton, Medical Director for HI NENC, said: “The Citizens’ Jury is a powerful way to ensure the voices of our community shape healthcare decisions.

“By bringing together diverse perspectives, including those with lived experience, we are working towards a more effective and compassionate approach to pain management that truly meets the needs of our region.”

Keep an eye out for the jury’s recommendations in July 2025, and learn how this initiative is helping to transform pain management in the North East and North Cumbria.