News and reports

As we mark Volunteer Appreciation Week, we want to take the opportunity to recognise and thank the incredible volunteers who are at the heart of Healthwatch North Northamptonshire.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in the UK, although it can also affect men. Increased awareness, regular self-checks, and early diagnosis all play an important role in improving treatment outcomes and saving lives.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of breast cancer can help people feel more confident about recognising changes in their bodies and seeking medical advice when needed.

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence among older adults, but many falls can be prevented with the right support, information, and simple changes at home. Across the UK, around one in three adults over the age of 65 experiences a fall each year, with the risk increasing as people get older.

While a fall can sometimes result in physical injury, it can also have a significant impact on confidence, mobility, and emotional wellbeing. Many people begin to feel anxious about moving around independently after experiencing a fall, which can lead to reduced activity levels and increased isolation. However, there are practical steps people can take to reduce their risk and continue living safely and independently.

Health officials and weather forecasters are urging people across Northamptonshire to take extra care during the late May Bank Holiday weekend, with temperatures forecast to climb into the high 20s and low 30s Celsius over several days. The Met Office has warned that parts of England could experience the hottest days of the year so far, while the UK Health Security Agency and the National Health Service have issued advice to help people stay safe in the heat.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men in the UK. Around 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with the condition during their lifetime, with risk increasing as people get older. While many cases develop slowly, early awareness of symptoms and knowing when to seek medical advice can make a significant difference.

As an independent health and care champion, Healthwatch North Northamptonshire encourages people to feel confident seeking information, speaking to healthcare professionals, and accessing support when they have concerns about their health.

The government has introduced a new Health Bill to Parliament, presented by Health Secretary Wes Streeting, which proposes significant changes to the structure and operation of the NHS in England.

As an independent patient champion, Healthwatch North Northamptonshire’s role is to help local people understand proposed changes to health and care services by providing clear and impartial information. While the Bill will now go through the parliamentary process before any final decisions are made, it includes a number of proposals that could affect how NHS services are managed and delivered in the future.

Listening to the voices of patients, families, and frontline staff is essential to improving healthcare. That’s why Healthwatch North Northamptonshire conducted an Enter & View of paediatric services at Kettering General Hospital—bringing together real experiences to inform meaningful, practical recommendations for the future.

Staying well isn’t just about treating illness—it’s about preventing it. An NHS Health Check is a simple, free way to understand your health and reduce your risk of serious conditions before they develop.

If you’re aged 40 to 74 and don’t already have certain long-term health conditions, this check could provide valuable insight into your future health—and practical steps to protect it.

Knowing where to go when you need medical help can make a real difference—not only to your own care, but also to how quickly emergency services can respond to those in greatest need. Choosing the right service helps you get the right treatment faster and ensures that critical resources are available for life-threatening situations.

This guide explains when to use NHS 111, when to visit Corby Urgent Treatment Centre, and when to go to A&E or call 999.

Residents across North Northamptonshire are being encouraged to take advantage of a wide range of vaccinations now available through a convenient mobile healthcare unit. Designed to make healthcare more accessible, this service offers walk-in appointments at various locations—making it easier than ever to stay protected against serious illnesses.

Mental health support in North Northamptonshire is designed to meet people where they are—whether they are looking to maintain their wellbeing, need someone to talk to, or require urgent help. Understanding what services are available and when to use them can make it easier to reach out with confidence. This guide outlines the different types of support available locally and nationally, helping you choose the right option based on your needs.

People who are Deaf, Deafblind or hard of hearing across Northamptonshire can now access dedicated information and advice through RJ Community CIC, the new service commissioned to support the local Deaf community.

Following changes to previous provision, RJ Community CIC is now the main point of contact for individuals seeking guidance, support and connection. The service officially took over from 1 April and is focused on ensuring that people continue to receive accessible, inclusive and meaningful support.