Future changes to the functions of Healthwatch
The report, which examined six key organisations involved in promoting and safeguarding patient safety, including Healthwatch England and Local Healthwatch, calls for a more strategic, streamlined and accountable approach to delivering safe and high-quality care across the NHS and social care sectors.
In relation to Healthwatch the review recommends:
- Transferring the functions of Healthwatch England to the Department of Health and Social Care.
- Transferring the functions of local Healthwatch into Integrated Care Boards and local authorities.
The Government has accepted this recommendation and will pass legislation to enable it when time allows.
This means that, until legislation is passed, the Department of Health and Social Care will advise local authorities to continue commissioning local Healthwatch services.
Media coverage following the publication of the NHS 10 Year Plan, in advance of the review by Dr Penny Dash, may have given some the impression that the dismantling of Healthwatch was taking place with immediate effect. But, we want to reassure you that this is not the case – we are still here for you.
While these changes will happen over time, new legislation will be needed. So, until the law is changed, we continue to:
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Listen to your experiences of health and social care.
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Share what we hear with those in power to help improve services.
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Provide advice and information to help you find the support you need.
We will keep you updated as more details become available. In the meantime, thank you for your continued support.
