News and reports

Now that we have had time to reflect on how the government’s recently published NHS 10-Year Plan will affect us locally, we want to speak directly to the people of Herefordshire about what this means for your local Healthwatch, and how we will continue to represent your voices in the months and years ahead.

Across Herefordshire, patients are playing a powerful role in shaping the future of GP and wider healthcare services. One of the most direct ways to get involved is by joining your local Patient Participation Group (PPG) — but it’s not the only way. This article explains what PPGs are, how they influence local services, and the many other opportunities available for residents to share their experiences and improve healthcare across the county.

Loneliness in Herefordshire: Listening to Local Voices

Loneliness is a quiet but widespread issue affecting people of all ages across Herefordshire, from busy city streets to rural communities. This research, led by the Herefordshire Together Collaborative—including General Practice, the Local Authority, Public Health, and Healthwatch Herefordshire—set out to better understand the lived experiences of those feeling isolated. By listening to personal stories and perspectives, the project highlights the reality of loneliness in our county and explores how it differs from social isolation.
Only by truly hearing these voices can we begin to shape meaningful, lasting solutions.

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Read all about the project work, activity, impact and engagement of the Healthwatch Team.

Healthwatch Herefordshire heard from 213 women, aged between 25 and 79, living in towns, villages, and rural communities across Herefordshire. The stories they shared highlight just how varied—and often difficult—the menopause journey can be.

In March 2024, Healthwatch Herefordshire published the Menopause & Me report—a powerful collection of experiences from over 200 women across the county. This report sheds light on what it’s really like to go through the menopause in Herefordshire today: the challenges, the triumphs, the gaps in support, and the changes women want to see.

Our eyes are one of the most vital organs, helping us navigate the world around us. But eye health is often overlooked—until a problem arises. Whether it’s regular check-ups, managing long-term conditions like glaucoma, or getting help in an emergency, knowing where to turn is key.

Every April, World Autism Acceptance Month provides an important opportunity to celebrate, understand, and support autistic people within our communities. Originally established by the National Autistic Society, the month encourages greater acceptance of autistic people and aims to create a society where everyone feels included and valued.

Healthwatch Herefordshire is delighted to announce that they have been Highly Commended at the prestigious National Healthwatch Impact Awards for their exceptional work in improving healthcare for individuals with learning disabilities.

This recognition is based on their impactful project investigating the experiences of annual health checks and COVID-19 vaccinations among this community.

Loneliness is a universal experience—something nearly everyone encounters at some stage in life. Yet, despite its prevalence, it often remains unspoken.
At Healthwatch Herefordshire, we recognise the importance of addressing loneliness from the community and individual perspective, which we hope to gain through our project: Understanding Loneliness.

NO MORE Week 2025 is an international campaign dedicated to raising awareness and inspiring action to prevent domestic abuse and sexual violence. This annual event brings together individuals, organisations, and communities to say NO MORE to domestic abuse and ensure that those affected can access the support they need.


In Herefordshire, we stand in solidarity with this movement by providing vital information on domestic abuse, its impact, and where to seek help. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, there are services available to support you.