Healthwatch Torbay

29/10/2026

📢 **Our latest Healthwatch newsletter is here!**

And we've got some fantastic news to share! 🎉

This edition includes:
✅ The Government's decision to **retain and strengthen Healthwatch!**
📊 Our latest quarterly report – what you told us and how we're making a difference.
🏥 Updates on local NHS services across Devon, Plymouth and Torbay.
💙 A special thank you to Pat Harris following her retirement.

Plus lots more local health and care news!

👇 **Catch up with all the latest here:**

https://loom.ly/lSuT2cI

29/10/2026

Today we recognise the people who care

Care isn't just about services. It's also about the people who support us every day, including unpaid carers, family members, friends and care workers.

Their experiences matter, and their voices deserve to be heard.

Today, on the International Day of Care and Support, we're recognising the vital role care and support play in our communities.

🗣️ Have you experienced care or supported someone who has? Sharing your experience can help highlight what's working well and where improvements could make a difference: www.hwdpt.org/share-your-views

28/10/2026

🎉 FANTASTIC NEWS FOR HEALTHWATCH! 💙

After months of uncertainty, the Government has today confirmed that Healthwatch will be retained and strengthened!

We're absolutely delighted that our independent voice for patients, carers and communities will continue across Devon, Plymouth and Torbay.

A HUGE thank you to everyone who supported and championed Healthwatch – this is fantastic news for the communities we serve! 👏

💙 We're still here, still listening and still making your voice count!

🔗 Read the full announcement and a message from our Chair, Dr Kevin Dixon: https://loom.ly/EeOULHo

27/10/2026

Today is World Occupational Therapy Day

This year’s theme is "Participation Matters", highlighting how everyday activities, routines and meaningful connections can support our health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Occupational therapists help people overcome challenges that affect everyday life, supporting them to do the things that matter to them.

Today, we’re recognising the important role occupational therapy plays in helping people live as independently and fully as possible.

Have you or someone you know benefited from occupational therapy? We’d love to hear about your experience: www.hwdpt.org/share-your-views

15/10/2026

🏥 Torbay Hospital Tower Block – fire safety update

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust has provided an update on fire safety improvements at the hospital's Tower Block, including plans being developed to temporarily relocate some services.

The plans are still being finalised, with further information to be shared once agreed.

Read the latest confirmed information and what happens next: https://loom.ly/wvv3mhM

08/10/2026

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 💗

Breast awareness means knowing what is normal for you and noticing changes that are unusual. The NHS guide explains how to check your breasts or chest and when to contact your GP: https://loom.ly/gpjFqWs

Your experiences help improve local health and care services. Share your views with Healthwatch in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay: www.hwdpt.org/share-your-views

05/10/2026

As autumn arrives, knowing where to turn for help with health and care can make a real difference. 🍂

Have you used a local health or social care service recently? Tell us what went well and what could have been better. Your experience can help highlight issues and support improvements across Devon, Plymouth and Torbay.

Share your views here: www.hwdpt.org/have-your-say

01/10/2026

Today marks the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout October, we’re recognising the importance of listening to people’s experiences and supporting better, more inclusive care across Devon, Plymouth and Torbay.

If you or someone you know has a health or care experience you’d like to share, your voice matters.

Share Your Views: www.hwdpt.org/share-your-views

30/09/2026

IN PAIGNTON TODAY....

We’ve been sharing an opportunity from Torbay Open Door for people affected by cancer to talk about their experiences and help shape future support in Torbay. The final two sessions will be held in Paignton today:

• People's Parkfield, 1:30pm - 3:30pm
• Paignton Baptist Church, 6:30pm - 8:30pm

It’s a chance to share what helped, what was difficult and what could have made a difference.

See the flyer for more details and please share with anyone who may be interested!

29/09/2026

Tomorrow - Paignton Library - 3pm

❓️| Have a question for our Board?

Ahead of our Annual Members' Meeting on 30 September, we're inviting members of the public to submit questions.

Questions can be sent in advance by emailing [email protected] with "AMM question" in the subject line.

Questions can also be submitted on the day and, time permitting, there will be an opportunity to ask questions from the floor. Responses to all questions received will be published on our website following the meeting.

Our Annual Members' Meeting takes place at 3pm at Paignton Library and can also be watched online.

There is still time to sign up for one of our neighbourhood conversations and visit our free community health and wellbeing event taking place alongside the meeting.

👉️ Find out more: https://buff.ly/0Lir6sb