News and reports

A public petition, open until 7 February 2026, continues to call on the Government to protect the independence of local Healthwatch organisations.

We continue to raise concerns that plans to remove Healthwatch independence could weaken the public voice in health and care.

Everyone should be able to use healthcare without physical barriers and with information that is clear and easy to understand. Our latest project aims to understand your experiences, champion what is working well, and call for improvements where it's not.

We have helped to put farmers’ health firmly on the agenda, driving new walk-in clinics, on-site health checks at auction marts, council and NHS action plans, and even parliamentary questions that are making rural healthcare more accessible and responsive to farmers’ real needs.

Find out how to contact Healthwatch, whether for advice or to leave feedback about health or social care, using a British Sign Language interpreter.

We’re encouraging more people with learning disabilities and their carers to make use of free annual health checks. These are a simple but powerful way to improve long-term health and tackle inequalities.

Healthwatch volunteers and staff are visiting libraries, hospitals and and community spaces across the county to answer your questions, help you find healthcare advice and listen to your feedback.

People across North Yorkshire have shared their experiences of health and social care. From moments of kindness that made a real difference, to challenges around access, cost and communication that still need to be addressed.

Breast screening helps detect breast cancer at an early stage when it is easier to treat. It is free through the NHS and takes only a few minutes. Most people who are screened have healthy results. Early detection can save lives.

By listening to mothers' experiences, Healthwatch have shaped real improvements in postnatal care. These include better face-to-face support, help with mental health, and better pelvic health care.

Tom Gordon Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough met Healthwatch North Yorkshire to challenge plans that could remove independent patient voice

The patient transport service is part of Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust and provides NHS-funded transport for people locally.