Update: Future of Healthwatch
The future of Healthwatch was discussed in the House of Lords on Tuesday during the second reading of the Health Bill. The Bill currently includes proposals to abolish Healthwatch at local and national level.
During the debate, Peers discussed the key issues within the Bill and highlighted areas where they believe changes may be needed. There was strong support from across political parties for keeping an independent patient voice, with many recognising the important role Healthwatch plays in listening to communities, representing people's experiences and holding services to account.
The Bill will now move to the next stage with further discussions expected to take place at the end of October.
What does this mean for Healthwatch Wokingham Borough?
As we wait for the next stage, our work continues as normal. We remain here to listen to your experiences of health and social care, ensuring voices from the borough are heard to help make positive change to local care and services.
Our statutory powers and responsibilities also remain unchanged while Parliament considers the Bill.
We will keep you posted as the Bill progresses through Parliament.
Thank you for supporting your local Healthwatch.
