A group of Pembrokeshire people are joining hands this week to try to set new standards for moving and handling practices in the county and are appealing to other interested parties to help them in their quest. Their plan is to establish a new Pembrokeshire Moving and Handling Forum aimed at standardising practices throughout the county. This would help to ensure a consistent approach to moving and handling issues, reducing inequalities between standards and leading to more effective use of resources. Said organiser Lorraine Dawson, from Withybush Hospital's Moving and Handling Department: "There are many benefits to a standardised approach to such procedures. Patients and clients would be moved and handled in a safe, secure and comfortable way, reflecting best practice, and this would happen regardless of the care provider or patient environment. "In addition, it would ensure a consistent approach to the training provision and assessment process, ensuring both employers and employees comply with relevant legislative requirement and standards." To determine levels of interest, a questionnaire was distributed to over 60 organisations and individuals throughout Pembrokeshire and an enthusiastic response received. Said a spokesperson for Elliots Hill Care, one of the organisations involved: "We feel that this new Pembrokeshire forum will help to raise the standard of moving and handling for both customers and staff and contribute towards the standardisation of training and care provision across the county." Chief officer for Pembrokeshire Community Health Council, Ashley Warlow, has also welcomed the initiative and is offering support by nominating Mrs. Beryl Thomas-Cleaver, a member of their executive committee, as chairperson. The first meeting of the newly developed Pembrokeshire Moving and Handling Forum will be held on December 19, from 1.30 to 4.30 pm, at the Picton Centre in Haverfordwest, and all interested parties are invited to attend. Additional information is available from Lorraine Dawson, Moving and Handling Department, School of Health Science, Withybush Hospital, on 01437 773831, or e-mail: lorraine.dawson@pdt- tr.wales.nhs.uk