A new NHS advice helpline is being launched in Airedale.

The new service will be available to anyone who needs advice, has concerns about their health care or does not know where to turn.

Debbie Bruniges is the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) officer for Airedale Primary Care Trust. She offers free on-the-spot help and support to patients, carers, their friends and family.

Formerly PALS was a Bradford district-wide service, but it was decided it would make it easier for Airedale patients if they had their own dedicated officer.

PALS has a wide network of contacts and Debbie can liaise with NHS staff and other relevant organisations on behalf of patients to try and resolve any issues, guide them through the different NHS services available or signpost them to appropriate local or national support agencies.

PALS is a completely confidential helpline service, but all queries are recorded and reported on a quarterly basis.

Debbie said: "My role is to help anyone with absolutely any issue related to primary care, including services provided by doctors, dentists, pharmacists and opticians.

"It can be a worrying time when you, or someone you know, is unwell and the NHS is such a large, complex organisation it can be difficult to know where to go for help. I can be a first port of call.

"There will be some things that we will not be able to change. However, I will do my best to support people, try to give them a seamless NHS service and ensure that their experience is as trouble-free as possible.

"Sometimes it's simply a problem of a breakdown in communications or a lack of understanding about the systems."

Since last October, Debbie has taken around 70 cases. These have included queries about referrals to secondary care, charges for treatment and flu vaccinations, and problems registering with GPs or dentists.

If necessary, Debbie can offer information about the formal complaints procedures and help people to understand the likely outcomes.

PALS is one part of a series of changes to ensure that patients' views and ideas are used to shape the direction of the NHS.

Those who have any comments, concerns or compliments relating to local health services should contact Debbie on 01535 338763 or by e-mail at pals.airedale-pct@bradford.nhs.uk.