News and reports

The NHS is strengthening the Accessible Information Standard so that everyone can get health and care information in a way they understand. We look at what that means for you.

Health literacy is one of the biggest barriers to good health outcomes. It is also something we are hearing more about here in North Yorkshire.

Healthwatch has been listening to women aged between 40 and 60 to understand their relationship with alcohol and hear about their healthcare we can help improve understanding and support.

This guide explains the rights of disabled people and anyone with additional needs to ask for reasonable adjustments that make it easier to use health and care services.

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.

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.

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.

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.

New national rules for non-emergency patient transport mean only people with specific medical, mobility, or care needs will qualify, leaving many others to find alternative ways to reach vital appointments.