The future of patient voice: learning from the Healthwatch model

A new report from the King’s Fund has shared learning about how Healthwatchs across the country have conducted their role collecting and reporting on the experiences of patients and residents, in light of the announcement that Healthwatch England and it’s local branches will face closure under the government’s plans to re-organise the NHS.

The report highlights key successes achieved by having Healthwatch as an independent, arms-length body, how its ways of working have improved capturing lesser heard voices, but also the challenges of making sure those comments and feedback were taken on board by health services.

It is hoped the findings of the report will be used to help shape future engagement and feedback.

You can read the report here.