Healthwatch Rochdale reveals priorities for 2019 - 2020

Healthwatch Rochdale

Independent health and social care watchdog Healthwatch Rochdale has published its priority report for 2019-2020.

Following a public consultation earlier this year, Healthwatch Rochdale has identified primary care (GP services) and adult social care as its two key areas of local focus over the next financial year.

The Healthwatch Rochdale work plan and priorities report for 2019-2020 will shape the direction of efforts to provide residents of the Rochdale borough an opportunity to have their voices heard regarding health and social care services.

The priorities and work plan have been agreed by the senior leadership team following a consultation exercise with the public, professionals, staff members and volunteers to identify what matters to people of Rochdale the most.

Kate Jones, Chief Executive Officer, Healthwatch Rochdale said “Our mission statement is clear; we are the independent voice of local people in challenging and influencing Health and Social Care provision in the Rochdale borough.

“As an inclusive organisation, we would value ongoing collaboration with our partners, to help take what we know and translate this into action to improve patient experience in our local area.

“The impact of our work is crucial to inform change; which we want to keep people involved in a number of ways, either by attending our public meetings or accessing our reports online.”

Projects undertaken by Healthwatch Rochdale will build on day-to-day activities, including visiting health and social care services and engaging local people at events and in public spaces to gather their views.

Combined findings will be used to provide insight for decision makers across the NHS and social care sector about the sorts of improvements people want to see.