News & reports

News

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

Two swans on a sunlit, leafy canal; graphic text says News & views, Swans on Bridgwater Canal, August 2026.

Healthwatch Somerset newsletter August 2026

Catch up with the latest news about our work and updates about local health and care services.

Healthwatch Somerset

Aug 30

Nurse in blue gloves cleans a man's knee wound in a clinic exam room while he sits on the bed.

Local voices, real impact: Seeking answers on service closures

Healthwatch Somerset make sure local people's experiences help shape health and care services. We sought answers from NHS Somerset after hearing concerns about access to local urgent care. The response sheds light on current pressures, plans to strengthen services, and the value of community feedback in informing decision-makers.

Healthwatch Somerset

Aug 19

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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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