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On 3 July 2025, the Government released its 10-Year Health Plan for England. While it outlines some positive reforms to improve patient care, such as better GP and dental access, expanded pharmacy services, and improvements to the NHS App, it also includes plans to dismantle Healthwatch as an independent voice.

The plan sets out the following actions:

• Combine Local Healthwatch functions with Integrated Care Boards engagement teams.
• Transfer social care-related functions of Local Healthwatch to local authorities.
• Move Healthwatch England’s strategic functions to the new patient experience directorate within DHSC.

Since 2013 Healthwatch Kingston Upon Hull has helped thousands navigate care, raise concerns, and shape improvements through trusted, community based support.

Over the past year we have spoken to people in Hull about their pharmacy needs and access as part of the Hull Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment, undertaken a project to strengthen the collaboration between social workers and care homes and supported Young People to have their voices heard and influence service delivery. You can read more in our annual report: Front and Centre: Unlocking the power of people‑driven care

Healthwatch is completely independent, Removing this role risks silencing vulnerable voices and relying solely on digital systems that many cannot access.

What next for Healthwatch Kingston Upon Hull?

For now, it is business as usual. There will be no changes until towards the end of 2026, so rest assured that we are still here, and we will still continue to advocate for your rights and make sure you can access the support and advice you deserve.

For Healthwatch to be dismantled and taken ‘in house’ will take a change in legislation which will take time. This gives us the opportunity unite in our response to the decision and fight for what is right for our communities.

“Removing Healthwatch risks losing independent feedback, trust, and accountability. Your voice still matters, and we’re here to make sure it’s heard”.