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Patient Experience Week 2026

Patient Experience Week is nearly here (27 April – 1 May), and our team will be out and about across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough visiting hospitals, GP practices, and community locations to hear directly from patients, carers, and visitors. From Peterborough to Cambridge, Huntingdon to Wisbech, you’ll be able to find us in a range of settings throughout the week, so if you see us, please come and say hello and share your experiences.

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What survivors of domestic abuse are telling Healthwatch about their NHS care

A new Healthwatch England blog highlights what survivors of domestic abuse have told us about their experiences of NHS care, revealing important insights into how services respond when people seek help. The findings show that while some people receive supportive care, others face gaps in identification, understanding, and trauma-informed support. Read more about what this means for health services and why it matters for ensuring safer, more responsive care for everyone.

Staying Safe on Mobility Scooters and Power Wheelchairs in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough

Using a mobility scooter or power wheelchair in Cambridgeshire or Peterborough? Staying safe doesn’t have to be complicated. From tips on speed, navigating uneven pavements, and training options, to insurance advice and local support, our guide brings everything together in one place. Discover how to stay confident, in control, and connected and find out where to buy or hire the right equipment locally.

The public’s voice on health and care in 2026: new report highlights key challenges

What does health and social care really feel like in 2026? A new report from Healthwatch England reveals the realities behind the statistics, highlighting ongoing access issues, inequalities, and the growing risk of a two-tier system. Read more to understand the challenges and what needs to change.

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The future of patient voice: what a new report means for Healthwatch and beyond

What does the future look like for patient voice in health and care? A new report from The King’s Fund explores the impact of Healthwatch, what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what comes next. Read more and share your views on how your voice should be heard.

Meningitis outbreak: symptoms, what to do, and how to protect yourself

A recent meningitis outbreak in Kent is a reminder to stay alert. Meningococcal disease can develop quickly and be life-threatening, but early recognition and treatment save lives. Learn the key symptoms, what to do if you or someone else is unwell, and how vaccination can help protect you.

The future of patient voice: what a new report means for Healthwatch and beyond

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Helping to Shape the Future of Policing

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough recently worked with local residents to help improve policing for people with autism, other neurodiverse conditions, and their carers. This first-of-its-kind event gave participants the opportunity to share their experiences and provide feedback on how police officers interact with disabled members of the public.

NHS Launches Campaign to Promote Online GP Access

NHS England has launched the “Tap it, type it and we’ll take care of it” campaign to encourage patients to contact their GP using secure online forms.

Have Your Say: Social Care Survey Now Live

We’ve launched a new social care survey to hear from residents about services that support daily living and wellbeing, including home care, support for older people, and help for those with disabilities or long-term conditions. Your feedback will help improve accessibility and ensure services meet real needs. Completing the survey is quick and your voice can make a real difference and help influence change.

Take the survey

Patients praise local diagnostic centres for speed and care, but call for clearer communication

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough’s August 2025 Enter and View report finds patients at Ely and Wisbech Community Diagnostic Centres valued shorter waits, modern facilities, and attentive staff. The report also notes improvements needed in accessibility and communication to guide the upcoming Peterborough CDC.

Read the full report

Mental Health Summit 2025 - Closing the Gaps

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough held its Annual Summit on 8th October 2025 at the Delta Marriott Hotel in Huntingdon. The event welcomed over 200 people, bringing together members of the public, patients, and leaders across health and care. Participants heard from retired Olympic Gymnast Louis Smith MBE, key speakers, took part in breakout sessions, and explored how partnership working can strengthen the voice of local people. The summit highlighted the importance of collaboration in shaping a more responsive and inclusive health and care system.

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New Healthwatch Survey Report Reveals Impact of Delays and Poor Transitions on Young People’s Mental Health

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has published a new report highlighting the challenges young people face when trying to access mental health support and the experience of moving between services.

View our full report here

National guidance issued on the use of chaperones

NHS England has published new national principles to improve how chaperones are offered during intimate examinations. Following findings from our 2024 cervical screening project, this guidance is a welcome step towards greater clarity, consistency and patient choice. Find out what the new principles mean for patients, and why clear communication and accessible policies matter.

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NHS England Publishes Community Mental Health Survey 2024: National Qualitative Report

NHS England’s latest Community Mental Health Survey 2024: National Qualitative Report shares patients’ experiences, highlighting what’s working well and where services could improve. Find out the key themes and insights from this national report.

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Using your voice to improve care

Your feedback is helping to improve the NHS and social care

You might think, 'What's the point? Nothing changes?' But every story shared with us matters. Thanks to millions of people, just like you, speaking up, we've been able to champion big healthcare changes.

See how your feedback has made a difference