The government’s intention to put patients and the public
first means that, more than ever, the health and social care
system in England needs to be aware of, and responsive to,
the views and experiences of service users and their carers
and the public.
It is anticipated that the establishment of Healthwatch will provide recognizable organisations able to champion the
voice of patients and the public, at both the local and
national level and to play a role in holding the new system
to account. Healthwatch will have an active role in ensuring commissioning decisions about priorities and services are
based on the needs and experiences of local people.
The Department of Health has published a policy document
which include infomation around; Key changes to the
current system; roles, responsibilities and functions of local Healthwatch organizations; key Issues in planning for Local Healthwatch. Click on link to download a copy of the Department of Health Policy document.
