Our Response to the News About Healthwatch

In recent weeks, you may have seen media reports regarding the Secretary of State for Health’s plans to abolish 200 arms-length bodies as part of the new 10-year NHS plan. This will include Healthwatch England and Local Healthwatch. We also understand that the legislation to make this change will be in place in October 2026.
Healthwatch Worcestershire Response Graphic

Understandably this raises questions about the future of Healthwatch Worcestershire and how in the future the local voices of patients, service users and carers will be independently championed within Worcestershire’s health and care services. We hope to know more when the 10-Year NHS Plan is published but want to reassure you that here at Healthwatch Worcestershire it is very much business as usual. Our Chair, Simon Adams, has emphasised that while this announcement is significant, we remain fully committed to our mission of championing the voices of local people in health and social care to improve those services.

In a time when our communities need us more than ever, your continued dedication and support are invaluable. We will keep you updated as we learn more.