What makes Healthwatch unique?
We are independent – our local Boards set our priorities based on what residents tell us.
- People tell us they are more likely to be honest with us – our independence and impartiality means they can trust that we will give an honest account of their views.
- We can reach people – as experts in community consultation, we work with our network of volunteers in a wide range of communities to foster strong connections with those groups who others often struggle to hear from.
- Established relationships with relevant key decision makers and commissioner with agreed processes to share local community intelligence that influences/informs their work.
- We work closely with the voluntary sector and community organisations in our local areas.
- Our statutory powers give us a unique position to review services as a “critical friend”
Our work responds to the needs and priorities of our local populations. Our independent Boards set priority work streams each year based on a robust decision-making process, reflecting the issues that people have raised with us via signposting queries, focus groups and community forums, local commissioning cycles and where we believe our work is likely to have the most impact.
In addition to our core work, local Healthwatch can be commissioned for additional pieces of research or engagement activity, using our extensive reach into local communities and our independence to provide an honest view on an issue for a commissioner or provider.
To find out more about the Healthwatch network please visit the Healthwatch website
