Northern Ireland's Patient and Client Council is highlighting the importance of safe care for people with long-term conditions on World Patient Safety Day.

The day, marked on 17 September 2026, focuses on safe care for noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases.

Paula Bradley, a council board member and chair of its policy and influence committee, said people with these conditions can be particularly vulnerable because they need ongoing care and regular contact with health and social care services.

She said up to one in three patients with conditions such as cancer experience adverse events during their care.

Independent advocacy can support people who are vulnerable by helping them speak up so their views are heard and their rights are respected, according to the council.

The council has called for standardised and regional independent advocacy support to help people raise issues with their care.

It said independent advocacy and a relationship-based approach can improve satisfaction, reduce stress and provide savings for the health system by addressing issues early.

The council's vision is for a health and social care service shaped by the needs and experiences of the public using a people as partners approach.