Healthwatch Westmorland and Furness is proud to launch our 2025–26 workplan, a bold, community-led strategy to improve health and social care services across our region. Our focus includes amplifying patient voices, addressing systemic gaps, and celebrating best practices in care.
Each topic in our workplan is based on real feedback from patients and the public. We then reviewed where we could make the most meaningful impact and drive positive outcomes for people using services across Westmorland and Furness.
In this article, we highlight the key areas of focus for 2025–26:
1. Spotlight on neurology
A key focus this year is neurology services, particularly in South Cumbria, where a new provider took over on 1st April. Building on work done earlier this year, we will continue working closely with patients, carers, charities, and the Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board to identify what’s working and what needs improvement.
This work will also expand to North Cumbria (Eden), giving us a full picture of the neurology patient experience across the region.
2. Transport challenges
Our innovative ‘Patient Journeys’ project will follow individuals as they navigate public transport to attend health appointments. By sharing real stories, the project aims to highlight the barriers faced by rural communities and those with additional needs. We will advocate for more accessible transport solutions, contributing to on-going discussions on improved public transport service provision.
3. Women’s health and maternity services in focus
Building on last year’s momentum, we are deepening our commitment to women’s health across Westmorland and Furness. A peer support group of diverse women will guide the work, ensuring services are shaped by those who use them. The year has begun with a revisit to maternity units in Kendal and Barrow, alongside conversations with new mothers about the crucial six-to-eight-week postnatal check-up.
4. Safeguarding with compassion
In partnership with Westmorland and Furness Council and Cumbria Safeguarding Adults Board, we will explore how person-centred the safeguarding referral process truly is. By engaging both clients and professionals, the project seeks to ensure that safeguarding practices are not only effective but also empathetic and respectful.
A commitment to listening and acting
From dentistry and GP access to the Accessible Information Standard, our workplan reflects a deep commitment to listening to local voices and driving meaningful change. We will highlight these three issues with awareness-raising campaigns across the year.
Through Enter and View visits and ongoing community engagement, Healthwatch Westmorland and Furness continues to be a vital bridge between the public and health and care providers.
Want to get involved or share your experience?
Contact us to find out how your voice can shape better health and social care in your community.