Opinion: From our Readers - ... and should emerge into spotlight

For too long, communication professionals have looked on police communicators as second class. There is an impression that press and PR operations within the police service are 'told' what to say, and there is little or no professional knowledge at work.

For the past ten years I have worked at two different police forces and have worked with a huge number of talented PR professionals who have had a real impact on people's lives.

It is that knowledge and experience that can add value to local public sector bodies in any partnership communication arena.

Police communication specialists have a fantastic opportunity with Anne Campbell's appointment as chair of the national Association of Police PR Officers to come out of the shadows.

Amanda Coleman, acting director, corporate communications, Greater Manchester Police

Dr Foster: trusts were informed about guide

- In regards to your article, 'Shamed trusts in PR fightback' (News, 4 December) I noted a comment from NHS Trust head of comms Simeon Baker suggesting he had not been contacted by Dr Foster about the Hospital Guide.

I felt it important to note that all trusts featured in the lowest band were contacted in early November and that an email was sent to Simeon along with a phone message. Further details about the data were sent through again in mid-November and copied to a colleague.

The evaluation of the data can of course be complex and debated, which is why Dr Foster offered all trusts the chance to sit down with a Dr Foster representative to talk through this information in October, when trusts were told they would be named in the Hospital Guide. We also held meetings at the highest levels with trusts that requested further explanation.

I felt it important to note that every effort was made on behalf of Dr Foster to make sure no trust was caught off guard. The openness and inclusivity throughout the process are something of which we are rightly proud.

Andrew Kliman, PR and communications manager, Dr Foster Intelligence Email letters (200 words maximum) to prweekletters@haymarket.com