Healthwatch Warrington publishes Annual Report highlighting a year of listening, influencing and improving care
The report highlights how local residents' experiences have helped shape improvements in areas including men's mental health, home care services, GP access, patient experience and personalised care. Throughout the year, Healthwatch Warrington engaged with more than 550 residents, supported 2,756 people with information and advice, and published 12 reports to influence decision-makers and service providers.
Among the year's achievements were the launch and expansion of the innovative About Me Card, a major report exploring men's mental health experiences in Warrington, and work with local partners to improve home care services and ensure patients' voices are heard throughout service development.
Lydia Hughes, CEO of Healthwatch Warrington, said:
"I am incredibly proud of the impact our team has delivered over the past year. By listening to residents' voices and working closely with our partners, we have helped drive meaningful improvements across health and social care in Warrington. From influencing changes in home care and access to GP and dental services, to shining a light on mental health challenges and supporting the development of new services, our work continues to make a real difference to people's lives."
The report also recognises the contribution of Healthwatch Warrington's volunteers, who collectively contributed 324 hours supporting community engagement, outreach activities and Enter and View visits to local health and care services.
Healthwatch Warrington Chair Norman Holding praised the dedication of staff, volunteers and partners throughout the year.
He said:
"I am proud to present our annual report, which reflects the dedication, resilience and achievements of our team, volunteers and Board over the past year. Working closely with strategic partners, including the Local Authority, NHS Trusts, Primary Care and the ICB, we have continued to ensure the independent voice of our community is heard."
He added
"As we reflect on the past year, we also look ahead. Healthwatch Warrington remains committed to empowering residents, amplifying independent voices and working collaboratively to improve health and social care for everyone in Warrington. It is both an honour and a privilege to serve as Chair of this organisation. Let us embrace the future with optimism, determination and an unwavering belief in our potential to make a difference."
The report outlines how Healthwatch Warrington's work has contributed to service improvements across the local health and care system, including influencing a review of domiciliary care services, highlighting barriers to healthcare access, supporting improvements to emergency dental provision, and helping shape future service development through community feedback.
Looking ahead, Healthwatch Warrington will continue its work to ensure local people have opportunities to share their experiences and influence decisions about health and social care services, with priorities including expanding public involvement, supporting service integration and continuing its Enter and View programme.
