News and reports

Bladder and bowel healthcare affects some 14 million people across the country. You told us things were not always working as they should, and so together we asked for more to happen. Here’s what is changing to make support more visible, accessible and respectful.

People across North Yorkshire have told us what truly helps them stay healthy day to day and the challenges that can make this harder. Their insight reveals a much wider picture of health than medical care alone.

Two years after people across North Yorkshire shared their experiences of continence care, hospitals, GP practices and community teams have begun to make important improvements. These changes follow what people told Healthwatch in 2023 and show how their voices continue to guide better support across the county.

Changing Places are toilets designed to provide extra facilities for people with severe or multiple disabilities.

Incontinence is a condition that causes the involuntary passing of urine and/or faeces. But the good news is help is available.

A free app is helping young carers across North Yorkshire and beyond find the support they need — and deserve.

There are many ways to get help with bladder and bowel problems, and understanding your options can make it easier to find the support that feels right for you.

Healthwatch remains here for you. We will remain open until at least 31 March 2027. However, the Government has announced they are changing how people can share their views on health and care in the future.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, has announced the Autumn Budget for 2025. We look at what it means for health and care and how the plans could affect people in North Yorkshire.

We listened to residents, relatives and staff to understand daily life in the home - to highlight what is working well and identify where improvements could help. We shared our recommendations with the home. Read on to learn more.

Most men would attend testing if the government introduced a national screening programme for prostate cancer, according to our new research.

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