News and reports

An open letter urges the government to rethink plans that threaten the independence of local Healthwatch services.

Childhood Vaccination Communication Project in Herefordshire

What is the PPG Toolkit?
Our Patient Participation Group (PPG) Toolkit is a practical guide for GP practices and patients to set up, support, and strengthen their PPGs. PPGs give patients a voice in shaping local health services and improving care.

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.

Join our FREE training events across Herefordshire!

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.