News and reports

As we embrace autumn's colder days and longer nights, this month we bring you:

Our new research shows worryingly low public confidence in being able to access NHS services. A third of adults in England lack confidence that they can access timely care, including GP services, mental health support and hospital care. Read the findings and our calls to action.

We worked with the NIHR (Clinical Research Network West of England) to understand current perceptions of Health and care research, and what the barriers are.

A review was undertaken by one of our Healthwatch Volunteers with lived experience of cancer asking five questions to understand what online support is offered via the GP surgeries locally. Our findings have been published in a report.

Each cancer support group is different, but many people find it helpful to have support during and after diagnosis. Some also offer advice and support to family and friends of people going through cancer care and beyond.
Listed below are some local and national support groups that people might find helpful. The ones listed are mostly for adult support groups.

The cost-of-living crisis is putting many people under financial strain, and prescription costs are more than some people can afford to pay. Find out what help is available to help you cover the cost of your medication.

We're backing calls to introduce 'Martha's Rule' in NHS hospitals. Find out what it is and why we are supporting it.

NHS England is moving forward the timetable for the autumn COVID-19 and flu vaccine rollouts.

As the summer draws to a close, this month we bring you:

New figures published today in the annual report on NHS Dental Statistics for England in 2022-23, show that NHS dentists still see fewer people than pre-pandemic. Read our response.

Neurodiversity is a word used to describe the different thinking styles that affect how people communicate with the world around them. It includes dyslexia, autism, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Tourette's Syndrome and more. Neurodivergent people encounter challenges accessing services which meet their needs.

Living with autism affects people in different ways. It can bring strengths and challenges that can affect how comfortable, healthy, and happy you feel. Here's what you should expect from an autism assessment, diagnosis and getting the proper support.