Do you value the independence of local voices in healthcare?
We are asking people to sign the petition to save local Healthwatch services.
Why has a petition been created?
The Government has announced its intention to abolish the Healthwatch network as part of the 10-Year Health Plan for the NHS. It proposes that the functions of local Healthwatch should be absorbed into local authorities and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs). We fear this will mean that patients lose the right to raise concerns with an independent body which offers unbiased advice, while holding the health and social care system to account.
Healthwatch Norfolk is one of a network of 150 local teams across the country that gathers feedback from patients and shares those views with decision-makers to help shape future services. We are an independent champion for patients, carers, and communities across the county, offering a voice to the vulnerable and under-represented and ensuring that people can have their say about NHS and social care services freely. We can also help people find the right support they need and provide information to assist patients with navigating the complex healthcare system.
‘Independence is not a luxury’
Speaking at the time of the Government’s announcement in June 2025, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Norfolk, Alex Stewart, said: “Independence is not a luxury — it’s essential! Our ability to challenge, question, and advocate without fear or favour is what gives the public confidence that their voices are being heard and acted upon. Without it, the risk is that public engagement becomes a box-ticking exercise, rather than a powerful driver of accountability and improvement.
“While the Government considers changes to the Health and Care Act and the sector awaits clarity on the future, we remain here, continuing our work with local people, supporting our volunteers, and ensuring that patient and public voices are not only heard, but respected.”
Healthwatch leaders across the country have written a letter to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, demanding a rethink over its future. Now we are asking people to sign the petition to help protect the future of local independent services that speak up for the public.
You can sign the petition to save local Healthwatch here.
