Thank you for your support
So many of you have told us how concerned you are that there will no longer be a local, independent voice representing and supporting patients and people who draw on social care, their families and carers.
We want to reassure you that, even though the Healthwatch name will go, we are all committed to doing the very best we can for our communities and under-represented groups, now, and in the future.
The 10-year Health Plan acknowledges that “there needs to be a greater emphasis placed on the patient voice” but also, that “The problem is that the NHS doesn’t listen well enough”.
Healthwatch is described in the report by Dr Dash in the following terms: “Since 2013, Healthwatch has made a significant impact, aiding over a million people annually to voice their concerns and access advice.”
We are aware that a national petition has been created asking the government to:
- Invest in and strengthen independent public voice.
- Engage with local Healthwatch leaders and the public to co-design a future that puts people first.
- Recognise the role independent voice can play in supporting the delivery of the NHS 10 Year Plan – by providing constructive challenge and supporting coproduction, particularly with those communities facing the greatest health and care needs.
The petition is here: Review decision to abolish independent local Healthwatch - Petitions
If this matters to you, please feel free to sign and share it.
People need to have a say in the future of health and care and we believe that voice must be independent.
Thank you again for supporting us. We’re grateful to have your support as we work through these changes together.
