The Future of Healthwatch

The future of Healthwatch

Following the publication of the new NHS 10-year plan, the government has announced it wants to change the law to:

• Transfer the work of Healthwatch England to the Department of Health and Social Care.
• Transfer the work of local Healthwatch, including Healthwatch Dudley, to the NHS and local authorities.

What does this mean for Healthwatch Dudley?

While these changes will happen over time, the law has not yet been changed. 

This means we are still here, open, and working for you.

We will continue to:

• Listen to your experiences of health and social care.
• Share what we hear with those in power to help improve services.
• Provide advice and information to help you find the support you need.

What will happen after the law comes into effect?

Our work will be transferred to the NHS and the Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council. While the details of how this will happen have yet to be decided, we will continue to update you.

How will I be able to share my experience of health and social care?

The new NHS 10-year plan indicates a push for patients to provide feedback on NHS services through the NHS App. 

Whilst this may provide an easy method for many people in our community to have their say, we are concerned about those who are unable to access or use the NHS App. 

We are determined to continue working to ensure the voices of seldom-heard people in our community will continue to be listened to.