News and reports

Every year, local Healthwatch services across England take part in Share for Better Care Week, a national campaign led by Healthwatch England. The campaign encourages people to spend just a few minutes sharing their experiences of health and social care so services can learn what is working well and where improvements are needed.

As the number of flu cases rise, we have put together some useful information so you are aware of how you can take care of yourself this holiday season and also when to seek medical attention.

According to the Guardian, the past week has seen an average of 2,660 patients a day in an NHS hospital bed with flu. A significant increase from 1,717 last week. By comparison, in the same week last year the number of patients in hospital with flu stood at 1,861, compared with 402 in 2023.

The British Medical Association (BMA) have announced that Resident Doctor’s (previously known as Junior Doctors) are taking industrial action between 7am on Wednesday 17 December 2025 and 7am on Monday 22 December 2025.

Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be a life-changing event, but knowing what support is available to you and what steps to take next can help you or a loved one process the diagnosis and plan for the future.

ADHD and autism are two neurodiversity conditions that present in contrasting ways. In Healthwatch England's recent research they heard from people who were diagnosed with, or suspected they had, both conditions. They talked to Healthwatch England about the impact of being diagnosed with both conditions.

The Government has published its NHS 10-Year Health Plan for England. Read our response.

The Government has announced measures to improve women's experiences with cervical screening. Booking screening should be easier, and lower-risk people will attend fewer appointments. Read our response.

A new approach to care is making dementia support better for people in Suffolk, after those with the condition, their families and carers shared their experiences with Healthwatch Suffolk.

People who have a sensory impairment or a learning disability continue to face difficulty communicating with services. Read our latest blog.

New poll of 2,579 adults in England highlights that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis can change people’s lives. Yet long waits for assessments put people with suspected ADHD off seeking professional care.

The cost of living crisis has put many people under financial strain, and NHS prescriptions costs are more than some can afford. Find out what help is out there to help you cover the cost of your medication.