Healthwatch Derbyshire urges Government to rethink proposal to abolish independent local Healthwatch

Healthwatch Derbyshire has joined more than 130 local Healthwatch organisations in signing an open letter to Health Secretary Wes Streeting, urging the government to rethink proposals to abolish independent local Healthwatch.

The plans, announced in June, would see Healthwatch services brought in-house under either the NHS or local authorities. Local Healthwatch argue that this change would threaten independence, which is vital for ensuring that patients, carers, and communities can share their experiences freely and hold services accountable.

A national petition, launched on 7th August, is calling on the government to review the decision and protect Healthwatch’s role as the independent public voice in health and social care. 

The petition argues that without Healthwatch, many people could lose a vital way to speak up about their care, at a time when services are stretched more than ever.

Helen Henderson, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Derbyshire, said: “For over ten years, Healthwatch has been trusted to speak up for local people. Our independence matters. It allows us to represent people honestly, without pressure from the organisations delivering care. If we lose that independence, we risk silencing the very voices that most need to be heard – particularly those who already struggle to get their concerns noticed.”

Healthwatch Derbyshire has worked with thousands of local people, from patients waiting for treatment, to carers seeking support, to families navigating social care services. Their stories are used to highlight what’s working well and what needs to change.

Helen added: “We want to reassure people that it’s business as usual for us. We’re still here, still listening, and still making sure local experiences influence decisions about health and care.”

Local people are being urged to support the petition, share it within their communities, and contact their MP to explain why it matters. 

You can sign the petition here, before 7th February 2026.