Healthwatch England and local Healthwatch organisations to be retained

News - 29 October 2026

The government has announced that local Healthwatch organisations and Healthwatch England will be retained and strengthened, ensuring that patients’ and the public’s experiences play a greater role in improving health and social care services.

We are delighted that the government has recognised the value of Healthwatch and our role as an independent champion for patients and the public.

This decision means that Healthwatch East Sussex, Healthwatch England and the 153 local Healthwatch organisations can continue to ensure that people's feedback and experiences are used to shape and improve health and care services.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has continued to work with Healthwatch East Sussex over the last 18 months and support our work. Your commitment has helped to ensure that people’s feedback and experiences contribute to improvements in health and social care services.

We also want to recognise the work and professionalism of the staff and volunteers from across the Healthwatch network. Throughout what has been a difficult time, their dedication and commitment have enabled us to continue hearing from people and acting as an independent voice.

We look forward to continuing our work and working with partners to shape the future of Healthwatch, ensuring that people have a strong, independent voice in the decision-making processes that shape health and care services.

 Comment from our Chief Executive, Vicki Harrison-Carr

The continuation of Healthwatch is very welcome news, after a period of great uncertainty. I would like to thank all our VCSE and statutory partners for their support and validation, as well as gratefully acknowledge the hard work and commitment of our incredible team of staff and volunteers. I relish the opportunity for Healthwatch East Sussex to further amplify the voice of local people, share insight and shape change. 

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