During the present Covid-19 situation the ward panel is meeting online to ensure social distancing, and this is likely to continue for some time. So far, the online meetings have been very successful!
We may use Zoom or (preferred by the Met) Microsoft Teams for this. Both are fairly straightforward. About 48 hours before the meeting, regular members and others who have asked to join in will be sent a link by email. Please don't share this link. Note there will usually be a practical cut-off one or more hours before the meeting after which we wouldn't have time to respond to new requests for the link.
Before the meeting is due to start, simply click the link and follow the on-screen instructions and you'll soon be part of the discussion.
Naturally, you'll need to use a device which is connected to the Internet - this can be a PC, a laptop or a mobile.
If you haven't used the relevant service before, allow time to get yourself set up - I'd suggest at least half-an-hour. - and clicking the meeting link early won't be a problem.
You don't need a web-cam, and if you have one its use is entirely optional. To participate fully you'll need a microphone on your device - any mobile will have one, of course, as will many laptops. If you don't have a microphone you can still listen in if your device has speakers or headphones available, and you may be able to type 'chat' messages.
We ask that participants mute their microphone except when asked to un-mute by the Chair - this allows each person to be heard, and also prevents distracting "feedback". We ask that anyone wishing to speak should raise a hand - either on camera, or ideally using the facility provided in Teams. You can also use the Chat window to send messages, including a request to speak.
The online environment means it's even more important not to speak over another person, but if you follow the directions of the Chair we can all take turns to speak, and it all works remarkably well!