Petition to review decision to abolish independent local services
Local Healthwatch has launched a petition
This petition is intended to make the government rethink its plans to abolish local independent services that speak up for public health and care, and in doing so end independence - something which has existed for over 50 years.
What does independence achieve?
- Public trust
- Transparency, accountability
- A driver for meaningful change
- Scrutiny of services through a patient lens
- Patient-focussed, evidenced-based recommendations to improve services.
Independent representation for patients in health and social care is not a luxury, it is essential. You can read more about the government plans here.
We are petitioning the government
We are urging the government to reconsider proposals that would transfer our independent functions, successfully delivered for 13 years, to local authorities and NHS bodies.
Through this petition, we are asking the government to:
- Revisit its decision to abolish local independent services that speak up for the public.
- Consult with the public to codesign a service which meets their needs and supports the NHS to realise its ambitions.
- Invest in and strengthen independent services.
We are hoping to achieve 100,000 signatures from across the Healthwatch network to get this debated in parliament. It sounds a lot, but it’s just 658 signatures per Healthwatch, so we can do it.
*Once you have signed, please remember to go to your email and confirm your signature, otherwise your support will not be counted.
Independent local services
Local independent services are rooted in their communities. We think they are well placed to support the 10-Year Health Plan by offering constructive challenge and helping co-produce solutions with those with the greatest health and care needs.
We think trusted independent services that listen to local communities are essential to improving health and social care. We listen without fear or favour and reach those whose voices are often ignored.
Proposed changes will transfer the functions Healthwatch provides under the control of local authorities or NHS bodies. This risks compromising the impartiality, trust, and effectiveness of these initiatives. Having an opportunity to go to an independent service for advice, help, support or to raise concerns is paramount.
We are shocked that these proposals have been made without public consultation. Neither do we believe they are supported.
At a time when patient trust in the NHS is sadly at an all-time low, instead of dismantling independence, we should be strengthening it to ensure that patients have a stronger voice.
For more information, read our letter to the Secretary of State opposing the decision to abolish independent Healthwatch functions here.
You can also read a further press release here.