Northamptonshire’s Patient Feedback Service to Divide in 2025

Northamptonshire’s service, which gathers patient feedback on local health and social care, is scheduled to be divided into two separate entities in the new year. Currently, Healthwatch Northamptonshire monitors public opinions on local services and communicates with the NHS and health authorities on behalf of patients. Effective April of next year, both of Northamptonshire’s two councils will operate their own distinct Healthwatch body. Matt Golby, the Conservative deputy leader at West Northamptonshire Council, commented, “The new Healthwatch service will play a crucial role in ensuring our community’s needs are heard and addressed.” The joint contract held by West Northamptonshire Council and North Northamptonshire Council with Northamptonshire Healthwatch is set to expire on March 31. West Northamptonshire Council indicated it would provide an annual grant of £137,000 to help fund its new Healthwatch organization. The Health and Social Care Act 2012 mandates local authorities to establish and maintain a local Healthwatch service to comprehend the concerns of local people.