Reflecting on 2024: A year of listening, supporting and making a difference in health and social care
As Christmas and the new year approach, we look back on a transformative 12 months for Healthwatch Westmorland and Furness. This year, in which we celebrated our first anniversary, we focused on amplifying community voices, gathering vital feedback and championing positive changes across health and social care services.
Listening to you
In 2024 we engaged with patients, members of the public, communities of interest, identity and geography, charities and support groups across Barrow, Eden and South Lakes.
We heard stories that highlight what’s working, and what needs improvement, in health services and social care. From Alston to Barrow, we were inspired by the courage and honesty of those who shared their experiences, particularly in areas such as maternity and neo-natal care, mental health, and adult autism referral and diagnosis.
In the South Lakes we carried out an Enter and View visit following feedback from a member of the public.
In Barrow, we were told about how changes at a health centre meant people who used ome smobility scooters were limited in the appointments they could have. We acted on that information to work with services to strengthen staff understanding of reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act and provide patients with increased choice.
Your feedback in action
Your stories were at the heart of our work.
One of our key successes this year was the publication of the Adult Autism Pathways report, which asked what the experience of seeking a diagnosis of autism as an adult is like in Westmorland and Furness. We worked with two local partners to gather powerful first-person accounts. In 2025 we will continue to work with partners to ensure recommendations are acted on. This wouldn’t have been possible without those with lived experience driving the conversation.
Focus on inclusivity
This year Healthwatch Westmorland and Furness has worked hard to amplify the voices of women residents. From gynaecology services to maternity care to menopause, we’ve gathered feedback that highlights the challenges women face when accessing health and social care services.
By sharing these insights with providers and decision-makers, we’re ensuring that women’s voices are heard and that services can evolve to meet their needs. One key area of focus in 2025 will be improving access to timely and compassionate care for conditions that disproportionately affect women, based on your feedback.
A community-centred approach
We took a hands-on approach to connect with the public, hosting pop-up events, community forums, drop-in sessions and seasonal feedback drives. Events such as the Christmas Wish Tree and card-making workshops brought people together in a welcoming space to share their health hopes for 2025.
We are proud to have been asked to facilitate University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay’s (UHMBT) learning disability and autism workshop in March, bring the voice of patients to Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board and NHS Impact’s Transforming Community Care Event, and support Westmorland and Furness Council’s substance misuse work with those with lived experience.
Looking ahead
As we head into 2025, we remain committed to working alongside our community, amplifying their voices and holding health and care services accountable. Your feedback has shaped our priorities for next year and we’re excited to continue championing positive change.
From everyone at Healthwatch Westmorland and Furness, we thank you for your trust, support and invaluable contributions this year. Let’s continue working together to make health and social care better for everyone.
Merry Christmas and happy New Year!