top of page

All posts


Navigating healthcare and mobility challenges.
We talked to Mr. Smith during our time in West Somerset to hear his story about taking care of his wife. We spent time with him for four...
Jan 28


Healthwatch Somerset - November Newsletter
Our November newsletter includes updates about our work, information about health and care services, and helpful advice. To read our...
Nov 20, 2024


Are you a young person under 18 who provides regular care and support to a family member?
Tell us about information available to you, and you could be entered into a draw for a £35.00 Amazon gift voucher. Graphic kindly...
Oct 15, 2024


Do you look after a family member or friend who couldn’t manage without your support?
Investigating available information for unpaid carers in Somerset. Over 49,000 unpaid carers in Somerset help take care of a family...
Oct 7, 2024


The doctor will see you now: A look at booking an appointment with your GP in Somerset
In response to local feedback about challenges in booking appointments with GPs, we have explored people’s experiences across the county....
Sep 16, 2024


The doctor will see you now: A look at booking an appointment with your GP in Somerset
In our latest report we have listened to experiences of Somerset residents who tried to book an appointment to see their GP. In response...
Sep 16, 2024


The People's Vote
Every year Healthwatch Somerset (HWS) Board and Staff members gather information about the delivery and efficiency of local health and...
May 23, 2024


What help can you get to pay for your prescriptions?
The cost of living crisis has put many people under financial strain, and prescription costs are more than some can afford. Find out what...
Apr 25, 2024


Dentistry in Somerset: Access, affordability and the impact on oral health
A lack of access to NHS dentists in Somerset remains a pressing issue, including for parents, vulnerable individuals and those with...
Mar 25, 2024


What can the Pharmacy First scheme do for me?
The new Pharmacy First scheme enables your local pharmacy to treat some common conditions with prescription-only medicines, without you...
Feb 12, 2024


What is measles and who can get the vaccine?
Measles vaccination rates are at a ten-year low as cases rise nationwide. Find out about measles, who can get the vaccine, and what you...
Jan 25, 2024


Can I access my GP records online?
From 31 October 2023, GP surgeries must give patients online access to their new health record entries. Find out what information is in...
Dec 11, 2023


What is an NHS and Care Volunteer Responder, and how can I access this service?
Did you know Volunteer Responders can help you access support and services such as collecting prescriptions and shopping delivery? The...
Dec 1, 2023


Collaborative event sets the stage for renewed commitment to Somerset’s unpaid carers
The Somerset Carers Engagement Project recently achieved a significant milestone in its mission to empower and support unpaid carers...
Nov 23, 2023


Referrals and your right to choose
Did you know you can choose which hospital you go to when referred for a test, diagnosis, or treatment? Find out how. If you use the NHS,...
Nov 21, 2023


What are the symptoms and treatments for diabetes?
Diabetes UK estimates that five million people in the UK are living with diabetes, with 850,000 of them not yet diagnosed. The number of...
Nov 14, 2023


Reaching out: Looking at mental health support for young people in Somerset
We have been working with our young volunteers to investigate how accessible young people’s mental health services are in Somerset, and...
Oct 31, 2023


Improving access to young people’s mental health services
In our latest report, we call on those responsible for young people’s mental health services to improve awareness, availability and...
Oct 31, 2023


What is social prescribing?
NHS social prescribing link workers can connect you to the right community groups and services to help support you. Around one in five GP...
Oct 30, 2023


What is a virtual ward?
With more and more appointments happening online, we've put together some tips on how to get the most out of the virtual health and care...
Oct 27, 2023
bottom of page