Shropshire Healthwatch welcomes decision to retain independent body

Shropshire Healthwatch has welcomed the decision to retain the independent body.

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The Government was planning to get rid of all 153 local groups in England and transfer its statutory functions to local authorities and NHS Integrated Care Boards as part of the NHS Modernisation Bill.

As it stood, the service was going to cease in its current form by April next year. Healthwatch acts as an independent patient voice – feeding back experiences, complaints and local needs to NHS trusts and primary care providers, including integrated care boards (ICBs).

However, critics – including Healthwatch members – warned it could eliminate independent patient voices, reduce accountability, and create conflicts of interest by allowing services to “mark their own homework.”

Now, the Government has done a U-turn, saying the Healthwatch services will be retained and strengthened so that patients’ and public experiences play a greater role in improving health and social care services.

In a statement, Shropshire Healthwatch said it means there will continue to be an independent way for people to share their experiences of health and social care.

“The decision recognises the important role Healthwatch plays as an independent champion for people who use health and social care services,” said a spokesperson.

“For Healthwatch Shropshire, that means continuing to listen to your experiences and making sure they are heard by the people who plan and provide services.

“There is a lot of change taking place across health and social care. At times like this, having a strong, independent voice for people who use services is especially important.

“People’s experiences need to be part of the conversation as services develop and change. We also need to make sure we hear from people and communities whose voices can sometimes be overlooked.

“The announcement also recognises the commitment and professionalism shown by Healthwatch staff and volunteers during what has been a difficult and uncertain time.

“We are proud of our team and volunteers here in Shropshire, and grateful to everyone who shares their experiences with us.”

The spokesperson added that the decision does not mean that the body is standing still, and its intention is to build on the strengths of the Healthwatch network.

“We welcome that approach and look forward to learning more about what it will mean for Healthwatch Shropshire and the people we represent,” said the spokesperson.

“Whatever changes come next, our focus remains the same: listening to people across Shropshire and making sure your experiences are heard.”

Feedback can be sent by visiting healthwatchshropshire.co.uk/share-your-views.