The team at Healthwatch Herefordshire has been shortlisted for a national award for their work in improving the care of local people.

The National Healthwatch Impact Award recognises outstanding examples of people sharing their experiences to improve care for their community and celebrates the difference local people make to health and social care services by sharing their feedback with our Healthwatch staff and volunteers.

The team have been shortlisted for their work with local learning disability groups, families and carers, raising awareness of annual health checks and vaccines. Sharing recommendations and feedback with health decision-makers to improve services in the county.

The nominees were announced as part of ‘Share for Better Care Week’, a campaign to encourage people to share their experiences of NHS and adult social care services across England to help improve care for everyone.

Commenting on the news that they have made the shortlist, Christine Price, Chief Officer of Healthwatch Herefordshire said: 

“Being shortlisted for this award is a proud moment for the team and our volunteers, but the real recognition goes to everyone in the community who continuously supports our mission. This is an achievement for everyone in Herefordshire, working to improve health and social care services in our county.”

Eighteen projects from across England are in the running for the National Healthwatch Impact Award. 

The annual award highlights outstanding examples of where the views and experiences of local people have been used by their local Healthwatch to make care better. The finalist will be announced at a national event on 13 March 2025.

Commenting on the news, Louise Ansari, Chief Executive of Healthwatch England, said: 

“Getting shortlisted for this award is a huge achievement. It highlights how the views, experiences and ideas of local people are key to finding new ways to improve health and care services. 

“This story shows what we can achieve when local people speak up, and those who run services listen.  If you have a spare moment this week, please share your care experiences with us, as positive change begins with your voice.”

To take part in Share for Better Care Week and share your experience of health or social care services with Healthwatch Herefordshire visit: https://www.healthwatchherefordshire.co.uk/share-your-views