Statement on the proposed closure of Healthwatch
Statement on Proposed Closure of Healthwatch
"On Saturday 28th June 2025, the Daily Mail reported that the forthcoming Penny Dash Review will recommend the closure of Healthwatch and other independent NHS organisations. According to the report, funding for patient and public engagement would instead be redirected in-house: to Local Authorities for adult social care, and to Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) for health services. The stated aim is to bring the patient and public voice closer to service delivery, by embedding engagement directly within these organisations.
"We are deeply concerned by these proposals, not only because of the dedicated staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that people's voices are heard at every level of the health and care system, but also because of the implications for patients and service users.
Independence is essential to truly effective public engagement. Without it, there is a real risk that the public will lose a trusted, impartial advocate that can hold services to account and speak up without fear or favour.
"The Board and Senior Leadership Team will be meeting over the coming weeks to consider how we respond together – and how we can support the system moving forward.''
"We are united in our belief in the vital role the patient and public voice plays, and in the values we all share - independence, integrity, and a deep belief in the power of people’s voices to drive positive change.
"We will continue to keep you updated as soon as we have more clarity on the way forward.
"Thank you for your continued patience."
- Jess Slater, CEO of Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
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