Silencing the independent voice

The wording in this message is: Silencing the independent voice. Latest news about the future of Healthwatch is a cause for concern for ensuring people’s voices are heard. We are seeking your help to challenge this proposal - details to follow. Read more on our news page. At the top left and bottom right of the image are photos of people from our engagements set into speech marks. At the top right is the Healthwatch Surrey logo.

Silencing the independent voice

30th June 2025

Reports over the weekend suggest that as part of the NHS 10 year plan local Healthwatch will no longer exist. The functions will be transferred ‘in-house’ to local authorities and NHS Integrated Care Boards once legislation has passed.

This news is obviously cause for concern for the people of Surrey who rely on our independent support to share their voices which otherwise may not be heard. Healthwatch was established to put people at the heart of health and social care. Therefore the abolition of this independent and anonymous route for people to feedback on these services feels like a massive step backwards.

We passionately believe in the amplification of people’s voices. We have worked tirelessly for the last 12 years to ensure voices are heard in the design, delivery and independent scrutiny of services.

How can you help?

Over the coming weeks we will be asking you to help support us in various ways to challenge this proposal. If you have been helped by us, worked with us, or just feel passionately about the importance of lived experience and public voice in the delivery of your services, then please get involved. Details to follow.