News and reports

The Government has opened a consultation on the creation of a new national NHS trust, NHS Online, and local Healthwatch are playing a key role. Our webinar and discussions have already highlighted important issues like patient access, digital inclusion, workforce flexibility, and safe care. Find out how your voice can help shape this new service and see the full themes and responses.

New government priorities for adult social care have been published, but what do they really mean for people in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough?

From independence and choice to workforce pressures and joined-up care, we take a closer look at the Adult Social Care Priorities for Local Authorities 2026–27 and explain what could change, what should stay the same, and why listening to people’s experiences matters more than ever.

A new NHS ‘Online Hospital’ is coming; starting with menopause and prostate care. Find out how this could make specialist health services quicker and easier to access for people in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and how you can have your say.

It is with great sadness that we share the news that our former Chair, Stewart Francis, passed away on Boxing Day at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice.

Stewart stepped away from his role as Chair of Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough in early 2025 due to health reasons. His decision was taken with characteristic thoughtfulness and integrity, always placing the needs of the organisation and the people it serves first.

During his time with Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Stewart was a deeply respected and valued leader. He brought clarity, compassion, and a strong sense of purpose to the role, championing the importance of listening to people’s experiences of health and care services and ensuring those voices were heard where it mattered most.

Stewart was known for his calm and considered approach, his commitment to good governance, and his unwavering belief in the value of community voice. He supported staff and volunteers alike, encouraging challenge, collaboration, and integrity in all that we did.

We are immensely grateful for the time, energy, and wisdom Stewart gave to Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. His contribution has left a lasting legacy, and he will be remembered with great respect and affection by all who had the privilege of working with him.

Our thoughts are with Stewart’s family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time.

In December 2025, the Department of Health and Social Care published a policy paper setting out national priorities for adult social care in England for 2026 to 2027. The document explains what the government expects local authorities to focus on, how adult social care will be funded, and how progress will be monitored.

This article explains the key points in clear, simple language and what they may mean for people who use adult social care, their families and carers.

The Government has announced new measures to improve access to urgent NHS dental care, but serious questions remain about whether they will deliver lasting change. With no clear data on progress and ongoing reports of people struggling to access care, Healthwatch is calling for transparency and fundamental reform to rebuild public confidence in NHS dentistry.

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.

Our Board Meeting is held quarterly and is an opportunity for our Directors to hear reports from our CEO and other members of staff. The next board meeting is being held on the 17th December and the focus is on our Engagement Team.

For International Volunteer Day 2025, we’re celebrating the incredible impact our Healthwatch volunteers make every day. Discover why this year’s theme, “Every Contribution Matters,” perfectly reflects their vital role in improving local health and care.

England has launched its first Men’s Health Strategy, aiming to improve physical and mental health for men and boys. Find out how Healthwatch has helped shape the plan and what it means for local communities.

Find out what the Autumn Budget 2025 means for people in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, including changes to NHS costs, new investment in technology and our concerns about the lack of action on social care.

Winter bugs and viruses are usually mild, but can sometimes become more serious, particularly in younger children or if an infection spreads to a vulnerable family member. It can be hard to know what to do when your baby/child is ill and when you can manage this at home or need to see a doctor or nurse for more help. These pages give you information about some common childhood illnesses and how to look after your child when they feel poorly with a common illness.