What is an Integrated Care System (ICS)?

You may have seen the term ICS when reading about NHS and care services. But what does it actually mean?ICS stands for Integrated Care System.An Integrated Care System is a…

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Have you paid for private healthcare because you couldn't wait?

New research suggests more people are turning to private healthcare, with difficulties accessing NHS care quickly remaining a key reason. We want to know what this looks like for…

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No dignity and no aftercare: My exhausting post-surgery experience

The Healthwatch Cumberland team heard from a local woman who shared her experience of having distressing complications following surgery. The following story highlights the…

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Healthwatch County Durham September 2026 Update

 News update - September 2026In this edition, we're sharing a couple of research opportunities as we want to hear from anyone who has had a delayed or difficult experience when…

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Digital Health: The future of healthcare

At the beginning of September, the Healthwatch Cumberland team were joined by Digital Unite and Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria for a session centred around digital…

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What is an Integrated Care Board (ICB)?

If you've read about changes to your local NHS services, you may have come across the term ICB.But what exactly is an ICB and what does it have to do with the healthcare you…

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Have your say on Kendal Urgent Treatment Centre

People across South Cumbria and North Lancashire are being encouraged to share their views and experiences of Kendal Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) before a public survey closes on…

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Celebrating Pride and our Trans Voices project

The Healthwatch Cumberland team had a fantastic time at Whitehaven Pride on Sunday 30th August, and were very excited to be sharing our Trans Voices work at the event.As always,…

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