29/10/2026
Its a significant day for the independent voice of patients and the public!!!
Today, the Government has confirmed that it will not proceed with plans to abolish Healthwatch England or local Healthwatch services across the country.
Our Chair, Sarah Collis, said:
“Finally, sense has prevailed and the plans to abolish Healthwatch across England are being scrapped! Patient and social care user voice is to be strengthened following today’s announcement.
I am beyond thrilled and extremely humbled by the level of support we have received for our work in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and to everyone who has campaigned and lobbied against the erosion of independent voice.
I look forward to learning how the Government intends to strengthen our voice and influence within the health and care system.”
The past 18 months have brought considerable uncertainty for Healthwatch teams, staff, volunteers and the communities we serve. Throughout this time, people across the country have made the case for why an independent voice matters, ensuring that people's experiences are heard and can influence the decisions that shape health and care services.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported this campaign, including our local partners, stakeholders, MPs and peers, and the wider Local Healthwatch Working Together network.
Healthwatch in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, delivered by Community Voices Matter - The home of Healthwatch Nottingham & Nottinghamshire, is here to stay 🎉
Now we look forward to understanding what comes next and working to ensure that the Government’s commitment to strengthening public voice translates into meaningful influence for patients, social care users and the public.
Please help spread the word. After so much uncertainty, it is important that people know their independent local voice remains.
Read the news in The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/oct/28/yvette-cooper-drops-plans-abolish-healthwatch-england
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