News and reports

Planned NHS strike action across England may affect services this April, but patients are being urged not to delay seeking care. We explain what’s happening, what it means for you, and why sharing your experience can help improve local health services.

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough’s Youthwatch team recently brought together young people with lived experience of autism and local healthcare professionals to explore the barriers faced in GP services. Through powerful first-hand accounts and open discussion, the workshop highlighted key challenges, from communication difficulties to sensory environments, and identified simple, practical changes that could make a real difference. Read more about the insights shared and the commitments made to improve primary care for autistic patients.

The NHS App can save you time and put you in control of your healthcare, but where do you start? Our step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know.

From your first appointment to postnatal support, find out how NHS maternity services in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough can support you every step of the way.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Looking after mental health is important for everyone, but men can face extra barriers when seeking support. This guide highlights local services, groups, and charities across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough that provide safe spaces for men to talk, connect, and improve wellbeing. From peer support groups, to creative sessions and parenting-focused support, there are opportunities for men to find community and care. The guide also includes local mental health charities, online resources, and practical tips for getting started, helping men take the first step towards better mental health.

Access to NHS dental care is becoming increasingly difficult across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, reflecting a wider national crisis. Many local residents struggle to find practices accepting new patients, face long waiting times, or are forced to turn to private care. Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is raising the alarm on the impact this is having on people’s health and wellbeing, highlighting the urgent need for action and giving local voices a platform to be heard.

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.

Have you, or someone you care for, received ambulance care following a fall? Your experiences could help improve how ambulance services respond to falls, making a real difference for patients and carers in the future.