News & reports

News

Woman in a wheelchair and a smiling girl in winter coats share a warm moment outdoors near a stone wall.

Young carers’ support saved after local concerns are heard

Proposed cuts to young carers’ groups and the Young Carers in Schools programme have been withdrawn after families and local organisations raised concerns. As Somerset’s independent health and social care champion, and a member of the Carers Strategic Partnership Board, we submitted a statement raising our concerns about the proposed cuts.

Healthwatch Somerset

5 days ago

Healthwatch Somerset funding extended to March 2028

We are thrilled to share some fantastic news about the future of Healthwatch Somerset. Our funding has been extended until the end of March 2028, meaning we can continue to be the independent voice for people using health and social care services across Somerset.

Healthwatch Somerset

Oct 5

Smiling pharmacist in a white coat hands medicine to a woman at a bright pharmacy counter.

Pharmacy First, prescriptions, and privacy: The Somerset story

We have published a new report sharing what local people told us about their experiences of community pharmacy services. The findings highlight what's working well and where improvements could make a difference.

Healthwatch Somerset

Sep 2

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Reports

Smiling pharmacist in a white coat fist-bumps a customer in a pharmacy, with medicine boxes on shelves behind.

How is your Pharmacy working for you?

Our report highlights opportunities to improve awareness of pharmacy services, provide clearer information about Pharmacy First, strengthen privacy for consultations and improve communication when prescriptions are delayed.

Healthwatch Somerset

Sep 2

Photograph of a red brick nursing and residential home named Ivelhurst, featuring a two-storey building with white-framed windows and a chimney. A blue sign with white text is positioned near the entrance, alongside flower pots and hanging baskets adding colour to the exterior.

Enter and View report: Ivelhurst Nursing Home, Yeovil

In June 2026, Healthwatch carried out an Enter and View visit to Ivelhurst Nursing Home in Yeovil. During our visit, we observed the quality of care and spoke with people who use the service, including residents, relatives, and staff.

Healthwatch Somerset

Aug 20

Photograph showing two women under a blue canopy, one holding a clipboard and the other smiling while interacting, with a child in the background. Text on a blue background reads "Speaking up for better care, Healthwatch Somerset annual report 2025/26"

Speaking up for better care: Healthwatch Somerset annual report 2025–26

Our latest annual report reveals how thousands of residents shared their experiences last year, helping drive improvements across health and social care. We have had a strong year of impact, amplifying public voice and improving awareness of key issues across Somerset. We have used community insight to: Influence service improvements Improve access and communication Ensure people’s experiences shape care Our year in numbers (2025–2026) 2,056 people shared their experiences of

Healthwatch Somerset

Jul 1

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