Healthwatch England National Conference 2024
The day began with a celebratory speech from the Healthwatch England Chair, Professor David Croisdale-Appleby. David said that following his visits to many of the local Healthwatch this year, he has been 'stunned' by the network's achievements. Healthwatch England Chief Executive Louise Ansari said Healthwatch colleagues' efforts to reduce health inequalities 'day in, day out' fills her with enormous pride.
There was a panel discussion around the NHS 10-year plan for health care which is currently in the engagement phase of development. Panel member and government minister for patient safety, women’s health and mental health, Baroness Merron acknowledged the work of Healthwatch and highlighted the importance of listening to patients to make the patient experience better.
The key thing is culture and leadership. You can put resource in, but it will deliver very little.
At Healthwatch Rutland we will continue to champion the voice of the local people and influence change within our local NHS health and care system.
It was a great day to learn more about Healthwatch England's plans and aspirations and to talk with other leaders of local Healthwatch about their organisations, their local difficulties and their work to improve care services. I came away knowing more about the direction of travel for the NHS and Healthwatch.
