News and reports

The rollout of COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccines has begun as the NHS drive to protect against a ‘tripledemic’ of viruses this winter.

In September 2024, Healthwatch sought experiences of hospital discharge, the process of supporting people to leave hospital effectively after treatment. You can read about what people told us below.

These are the board papers for the Board of Directors meeting held on 21st October 2024. Minutes of the meeting will be published once these have been approved at the January 2025 Board meeting.

New Freedom of Information findings reveal a worrying picture of pharmacy closures across England, hitting older people and rural communities the hardest. Read Healthwatch England's research to find out more.

Between April and September 2024, Healthwatch Brighton and Hove (HWBH) staff and volunteers attended a range of different public events. We did this to speak directly with people face-to-face to hear their views about health and care services and to raise awareness of our work.

The CQC reviewed 141 units across the NHS and highlighted widespread issues with staffing, buildings, equipment and safety management processes. They warn that preventable harm is at risk of becoming 'normalised'.

Falls Prevention Awareness Week is a nationwide effort to raise awareness on preventing falls, reducing the risk of falls, and helping us all live without the fear of falling as we age.

The Brighton & Hove Safeguarding Adults Board (BHSAB) Annual Report for 2023/24 has been published with a message from their newly appointed Independent Chair, Seona Douglas.

Last week, the Department of Health and Social Care set out its guidance and priorities for winter 2024 - 2025 in Adult Social Care and NHS England set out similar guidance on urgent and emergency care.

In July and August 2024, Healthwatch Brighton and Hove conducted a survey for patients registered with Woodingdean Medical Practice.

Cervical screening, previously known as a smear test, saves over 4,000 lives every year in the UK. However, some people find it uncomfortable, so it's important to know what support is available and what adjustments you can request.

In August 2024, the three Healthwatch teams in Sussex sought your experiences of using eye care services. Read the results.