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 care 3,026 people received advice, information, or signposting 6 reports published on priority issues (e.g. carers, neuro‑rehabilitation) Supported by 5 staff and 35 volunteers Our volunteers contributed 536 hours of their time Engagement & inclusion We worked to reach underrepresented groups including: Refugees and people with limited English Veterans and armed forces communities Young people and people with disabilities This helped reduce barriers and improve access to services. Listening and influencing change We gathered insights directly from communities using them to influence decision‑makers and build on our strong partnerships with Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, the Integrated Care Board (ICB), and Somerset Council. We also worked closely with the Voluntary, Charitable, Faith, and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector to ensure people could access trusted information and advice. Future outlook Despite potential national changes that may end Healthwatch Somerset in its current form by 2027, we will continue to focus on ensuring an independent public voice in healthcare. Read our report If you need this report in a different format, please email info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk or call 0800 999 1286.

We’ve published our latest annual report, showing how people across Somerset have shared their experiences to help improve health and social care. Over the past year, more than 2,000 people told us about their care, and we supported over 3,000 people with information and advice. Your feedback helps make sure services reflect what matters most to local people. Putting people at the centre of services We’re here to be your independent voice for health and social care. This year, we’ve worked with residents, community groups and decision-makers to help make services more responsive, inclusive and easier to access. Because people spoke up, we’ve seen real improvements, including: A new pharmacy in Wincanton, making it easier to get prescriptions Better, clearer information, with more use of plain English and accessible formats More support for unpaid carers, after many told us they weren’t getting the help they needed Listening to what matters What you told us also highlighted some ongoing challenges. For example: Seven in 10 carers said they weren’t offered information about caring People said information can be unclear, inconsistent, or only available online, making it hard to use We’re using this feedback to work with partners to improve communication and help people get the support they need more easily. Working together for change We continue to work closely with NHS and council partners, as well as voluntary and community groups, to make sure your experiences shape decisions. Krystle Pardon, Head of Patient Engagement and Involvement for Somerset NHS Foundation Trust said: Feedback from Healthwatch is invaluable in ensuring the voices of patients and carers are heard. This year we: Spent time in communities across Somerset, from colleges to care homes Ran events like Thinking Together, bringing people and organisations together to improve accessible information Shared what you told us with leaders across the local health and care system Worked with our volunteers, who contributed over 500 hours supporting engagement Looking ahead We know how important it is to have an independent voice for people, especially during times of change in the health and care system. In the year ahead, we will: Keep championing your experiences Focus on community wellbeing and support after leaving hospital Reach more young people and underrepresented groups Help people understand changes to the NHS and local services Share your experience Your feedback makes a difference. It helps services understand what’s working and what needs to improve so care can be better for everyone. If you’d like to share your experience or find out more, visit our 'Have your say' page or contacts us. Read the full report You can read and download the full report from our reports page.

Catch up with the latest news about our work and updates about local health and care services. Welcome hut, Ark at Egwood, Merriott May 2026 in numbers A brief summary of team achievements in May. One delivery of Enter and View training to another Healthwatch Two requests for our volunteer Readers Panel to review NHS documentation 18 Events 47 Meetings 121 direct engagements with people These figures may be higher because it can be hard to record every contact and all feedback. Supporting you across the county On Monday 18 May we were at the Glastonbury Community Appointment Day for people with musculo skeletal (MSK) issues. Organised by Somerset NHS Foundation Trust physiotherapy team, patients have a booked appointment with a physiotherapist and are then able to access a variety of community stalls giving information about health and care. These events take place across the county and help both patients and health and care organisations. Devices and digital help available locally Many people still find it hard to use online services because they do not have a device, internet access, or confidence with technology. This makes it harder to use services like the NHS App or book appointments online, especially for older people, carers and people on low incomes. There is help available in Somerset. SIMPal provides free mobile phones, SIM cards, and connectivity for people who need them. The National Device Bank, run by the Good Things Foundation, works with local organisations across the UK to provide donated devices. They do not give devices directly, so you may need to contact a local organisation to check if support is available. You can also get support from local libraries, community hubs, and digital groups. They can help you set up devices, create an email account, and learn how to use online services safely. Have your say on Somerset Council’s priorities Somerset Council is asking people across the county what matters most to them as it starts planning its 2027/28 budget. This is an early chance for residents, businesses and community groups to help shape the council’s priorities before more detailed proposals are developed later in the year. The council provides services that many people rely on every day, including adult and children’s social care, public health, waste and recycling, highways, libraries, education, and community services. Because of ongoing financial pressures, the council wants to understand which services matter most to local people. We know that decisions about local services can affect people’s health, wellbeing, and daily lives. That is why it is important that everyone has the opportunity to have their say, especially people whose voices are not always heard. You can take part in the Somerset Council’s Summer Budget Consultation online. The consultation is open to everyone and closes on Monday 27 July. Improving cancer care across our region The Somerset, Wiltshire, Avon, and Gloucestershire (SWAG) Cancer Alliance is working to deliver the ambitions set out in the new National Cancer Plan for England. ©Thank you to SWAG Cancer Alliance for use of their image This national plan aims to ensure that by 2035, three in four people diagnosed with cancer will be living well five years after diagnosis. Across our region, around 50,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year, so improving services is vital. Earlier diagnosis and faster care are key priorities. More cancers are now being diagnosed at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful. In the SWAG area, early diagnosis rates are already higher than the national average. Work is also taking place to reduce waiting times and speed up access to tests and treatment. For example, new ways of working, like checking skin conditions using photos (teledermatology), are helping people get quicker answers and avoid unnecessary trips to hospital. Innovation is playing an important role. Local projects include digital self-referral services, which allow people with concerns (such as breast symptoms) to refer themselves directly for checks, helping them access care sooner. The Alliance is also supporting national improvements such as better use of technology, more personalised care, and new treatments based on genetic testing. Helping you find the right cancer support If you or someone you care for needs cancer support, it can be hard to know where to start. At Healthwatch, we’re here to help you find the right service and information quickly and with confidence. We are proud to be a Macmillan Affiliate Member. This gives us access to trusted training and clear, up-to-date resources, so we can support people before, during and after a cancer diagnosis. We can guide you to reliable information and connect you with other local support, including Cancer Awareness and Support Cafés (CASC) and other community services. Whether you’re unsure about services or where to turn next, we can help you understand your options and navigate the care you’re entitled to. Get in touch with us for free, independent support. You don’t have to figure it out alone. Outstanding Care, Still Going Strong A care home in Burnham-on-Sea is celebrating nearly a decade of top-quality care after once again being rated outstanding by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Frith House, which supports people living with dementia as well as those needing residential or respite care, has held this highest rating since 2017. The latest inspection highlighted a calm and welcoming environment where people are treated with dignity, kindness and respect. Inspectors found that compassionate staff make a real difference to residents’ lives, helping to improve wellbeing, reduce distress and build meaningful relationships. Residents said they feel safe and cared for, describing the home as having a strong sense of family and belonging. One family member shared: There is a generally good atmosphere in the home, staff upbeat and smiling. Activities are appropriate, and they keep me updated on how he’s been during the day. The team was also praised for helping people stay independent and involved, creating a positive culture where individuals feel valued. Kerry Stevens, Head of Residential and Nursing Services at Somerset Care, says: I am so proud of the Frith House team for retaining their outstanding rating at their latest CQC inspection. This is testament to the determination of each and every colleague to provide the highest standards of care for their residents, whilst also offering compassionate support for their loved ones. Experiences like these show us what good care looks like in practice: people being listened to, treated with respect and supported to live the life they choose. © Images kindly provided by Somerset care Bold & Brave: Helping Young People Build Confidence for Work Bold & Brave is a supported employment programme run by Young Somerset. It helps young people gain the skills, confidence and experience they need to move towards work. Through a shop and café, young people learn practical skills such as customer service, food preparation and running a business. Emmie’s story Emmie, age 20, joined the programme in September 2024. She lives with several conditions, including autism and anxiety, which affect her daily life. Before joining Bold & Brave, Emmie found it hard to speak to others and lacked confidence. College was a difficult time, and everyday tasks often felt overwhelming. When she started her internship, Emmie felt nervous and unsure. At first, she kept to herself. Over time, with support and real work experience, she began to grow in confidence. She learned to communicate more, share her ideas and connect with others. At the end of the internship, Emmie was offered a job as an Enterprise Assistant. She accepted and now works at Bold & Brave, while also volunteering in a charity shop. Emmie says the experience has helped her build confidence, develop friendships, and feel more hopeful about the future. She still faces challenges, especially in busy or unfamiliar situations, but feels more able to manage them. With clear routines and support, she continues to grow in confidence and independence. Emmie’s journey shows how the right support can help young people overcome barriers and reach their potential. © Images kindly provided by Young Somerset. Somerset adult social care ‘requires improvement’ – what people told inspectors The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has published its latest assessment of Somerset Council’s adult social care. Overall, the council is rated “requires improvement.” People shared both positive and negative experiences. Some said support had improved over time, and many valued community-based services such as village agents, who help people access information and connect with local support.There is also evidence of stronger partnership working and committed staff, with leaders taking steps to improve how services are managed and delivered. However, not everyone is getting the support they need when they need it. Some people said it was hard to contact the council or felt they had to fit around services instead of getting care that works for them. Delays are a key concern, including long waits for assessments, reviews, and equipment. Unpaid carers also reported challenges. Inspectors heard that carers are not always aware of their right to an assessment, and some experience delays or a lack of support planning. What this means for people in Somerset This report reflects a system that is improving but still under pressure. There are positive examples of joined up working and community support, but people do not always receive prompt, consistent, or personalised care. What we are hearing locally These findings echo what we heard in our “Who Cares?” report. Carers told us they often struggle to find clear, consistent information, and face delays when trying to access support. Many also described feeling overlooked and not fully involved in decisions about care. Our view There are encouraging signs of progress, but more needs to be done to make sure everyone can access the right support at the right time. Listening to people and carers, improving communication and reducing delays will help services work better for local communities. Young people’s creativity celebrated in Somerset © Apples for all by Ellie A recent exhibition at County Hall warmly celebrated the creativity, experiences and voices of children and young people from across Somerset. The artwork was created by members of Somerset Council’s youth participation groups, including the Unstoppables, Somerset in Care and Leaving Care Councils, and Somerset Youth Parliament. © Aurora and Mountains by Holly The collection brought together paintings, poetry, photography, printing, collage and even a papier-mâché whale shark. Through their work, young people shared what mattered to them — from friendship and joy to climate change, care experience, youth voice and feeling connected to the world around them. This exhibition is a powerful reminder that young people have important things to say, and creative ways to say them. You can view the artwork online through the virtual exhibition page, making it easier for more people to see and celebrate young people’s work. © Images kindly provided by Somerset Council Engagement Participation Team Help make work fair for unpaid carers Unpaid carers play a vital role in supporting family, friends and communities, but many struggle to balance caring with work. A new government consultation is exploring how employment rights could be improved, including extended leave, better job protection and paid time off. The proposals also look at support for parents of seriously ill children, recognising the impact this can have on family life and work. Current rights, like unpaid carer’s leave and flexible working, don’t always go far enough, and many people find it hard to access clear information or support. This is your chance to share your experience and help shape future policy. Find out more and take part online. The consultation is open until 1 September 2026. Join us in July 😎 Come and talk to us about your experiences or for information and advice about health and care services in Somerset. Date and times Details July 4, 2026 10:00am to 6:00pm Somerset Armed Forces Day Vivary Park, Upper High Street, Taunton, TA1 3SX July 5, 2026 12:00pm to 5:00pm Yeovil Together at Westlands Entertainment Venue, Westbourne Close, Yeovil, BA20 2DD July 7, 2026 11:00am to 12:30am Taunton Library Paul St, Taunton, TA1 3XZ July 8, 2026 10:00am to 12:00pm Morland Community Hub Pearce Drive, Highbridge, TA9 3FU July 14, 2026 10:00am to 2:00pm The Care Show for Somerset Wellsprings Leisure Centre, Cheddon Road, Taunton, TA2 7QP July 16, 2026 1:00m to 3:00pm Brean Talking Café Brean Village Hall, Church Road, Brean, TA8 2SF July 22, 2026 10:30am to 12:30pm Carers Information Day at Taunton Town Football Club Wordsworth Drive, Taunton, TA1 2HG July 28, 2026 10:00am to 12:00pm Waffle over waffles at The Waffle Hub Community Café Methodist Church, 35A College St, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 1AS July 29, 2026 10:00am to 11:30am Glastonbury Library 1 Orchard Court, Glastonbury, BA6 9JB Other important dates Date What Find out more 6 to 12 July Alcohol Awareness Week https://alcoholchange.org.uk/ 24 July Samaritans Awareness Day https://www.samaritans.org/ 24 July International Self Care Day https://isfglobal.org/ 28 July World Hepatitis Day https://www.worldhepatitisday.org/ 30 July International Day of Friendship https://www.un.org/en/observances/friendship-day 1 to 31 July Sarcoma Awareness Month https://sarcoma.org.uk/ 1 to 31 July Good Care Month https://nationaltoday.com/good-care-month/ 1 to 31 July Disability Pride month https://www.scope.org.uk/disability-pride-month Want us to share your news? Do you have any health and care news or events you would like us to include in our July2026 newsletter? If so, please send us you text with an accompanying image to info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk before Friday 17 July 2026. Get in touch Share your experiences of health and care services in Somerset so we can help influence change and make services better. Have your say using our website contact form, or call us free on 0800 999 1286. Do you have questions about health and care ‘jargon’? We can help, email you enquiries to info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk or call us free on 0800 999 1286. Our website Find out what we do in a variety of accessible formats https://www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/about-us Read our news and reports https://www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/newsandreports Volunteer with us https://www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/volunteer Contact us https://www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/contact-us Follow us on social media: BlueSky/@healthwatchsom.bsky.social Facebook.com/Healthwatchsomerset @healthwatchsomerset If you have been sent this newsletter and would like to join our mailing list, please follow this sign up to our newsletter link. Healthwatch Somerset, Suite 12, Wellworthys Business Centre, Parrett Way, Colley Lane, Bridgwater, TA6 5LB The Healthwatch Somerset service is run by The Advocacy People, an independent charity - Charity No. 1080679 limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales with Company No. 3963421. The registered office is at PO Box 375, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 9HU

There are supply problems with Ramipril 1.25mg capsules (a medicine used to treat high blood pressure and other heart and kidney conditions). Smiling Pharmacist with Beard · Free Stock Photo This page was updated on 5 June 2026 as the Serious Shortage Protocol due to end on 29 May 2026 has now been extended to 24 July 2026. A national ‘Serious Shortage Protocol’ means your pharmacy may only be able to give you up to one month’s supply at a time. What’s happening Community Pharmacy England has shared information from the Department of Health and Social Care that Ramipril 1.25mg capsules have intermittent supply problems. These problems are expected to continue until Friday 24 July 2026. Who may be affected You may be affected if you take Ramipril 1.25mg capsules. National guidance also asks prescribers not to start new patients on Ramipril 1.25mg capsules until the supply problem has improved. What your pharmacy can do A Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP) has been issued for Ramipril 1.25mg capsules (SSP087). This started on 22 April 2026 and is currently due to end on Friday 24 July 2026. If your prescription is for more than one month, your pharmacist may only be allowed to supply up to one month at a time (if stock is available). This is to help make sure more people can get the medicine during the shortage. If the pharmacy supplies a reduced quantity under the SSP, you should not be charged an NHS prescription charge for that supply. What you should do Keep taking your medicine as prescribed. Do not stop taking Ramipril without medical advice. Order your repeat prescription a little earlier than usual if you can, to allow time for your pharmacy to get stock or speak to your prescriber. If you are given less than usual, make a note of when you will run out and order your next supply in good time. Ask your pharmacist for advice if you are worried or you have questions about your supply. If you can’t get Ramipril 1.25mg capsules Some other forms of Ramipril (such as tablets and oral solution) are still available, but national guidance says they may not be able to meet extra demand. If your pharmacy cannot get the capsules, your GP or nurse prescriber may suggest a different medicine instead (for example, another Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or an Angiotensin-II receptor blocker (ARB)). If your medicine is changed, you may need monitoring to make sure your blood pressure stays controlled and you tolerate the new medicine. Seek medical advice if you feel dizzy or light-headed after a switch. The British Heart Foundation have lots of information about types of medicine for heart conditions on their website. Why this is happening Medicine shortages can happen for different reasons, including manufacturing and supply chain problems. National organisations are using extra measures (like the SSP) to manage supplies as fairly as possible until stock levels improve. Where to get help in Somerset Your community pharmacy – they can tell you what is available and what the Serious Shortage Protocol allows them to supply. Your GP practice (or the clinician who prescribes your medicines) – contact them if you are running low and your pharmacy cannot get your usual medicine. NHS 111 – use this if you need urgent advice when your GP practice is closed. Healthwatch Somerset – we can help you find the right service and we want to hear about your experience of accessing medicines in Somerset. If you have had problems getting Ramipril (or another medicine), telling us helps build a picture of what people are experiencing and we will share it with the people who plan local services. Download this information in an Easy Read format. Sources Community Pharmacy England: SSP for Ramipril 1.25mg capsules extended - Community Pharmacy England

After a packing error the government have announced a precautionary recall of Crescent Pharma Limited Ramipril 2.5mg capsules. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued a precautionary safety recall for one batch of Crescent Pharma Limited Ramipril 2.5mg capsules. A packaging error means some boxes might contain a much higher dose (10mg capsules) instead of the 2.5mg dose. Check Your Medicine Box If you take this medication, look at the outer cardboard box right away. Batch number to look for: GR155023. What to do next: If you have this batch, open the box and look at the foil blister strips inside. What Action to Take If the strips say 10mg: Do not take the medicine. Take the box and the patient leaflet straight back to your dispensing pharmacy for a safe replacement. If the strips say 2.5mg: You do not need to do anything. Your medicine is safe and you can keep taking it as normal. Please see MHRA’s Class 2 recall  for further information and images of the affected product: Class 2 Medicines Recall: Crescent Pharma Limited, Ramipril 2.5 mg Capsules, EL(26)A/25 - GOV.UK What to Look Out For If you think you have accidentally taken a 10mg capsule from an affected pack, watch out for these symptoms: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy. Fainting. Feeling unusually tired or fatigued. Important Safety Notice If you feel unwell or suspect you took the wrong dose, seek medical advice from your GP or call NHS 111 immediately. Do not stop taking your blood pressure medication without speaking to a healthcare professional first. Please double-check the physical label on your medication box to confirm the batch number before taking any action. If you suspect you have experienced side effects, you can also report them directly via the official UK MHRA Yellow Card scheme. Sources MHRA Press release: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/precautionary-recall-of-blood-pressure-medication-crescent-pharma-limited-ramipril-25mg-capsules-after-packaging-error

Catch up with the latest news about our work and updates about local health and care services. Saint Andrews Church, Burnham-on-Sea April 2026 in numbers A brief summary of team achievements in April. One delivery of Enter and View training to another Healthwatch Two requests for our volunteer Readers Panel to review NHS documentation 10 Events 14 pieces of feedback recorded on our database 26 Meetings 204 direct engagements with people These figures may be higher, as it can be difficult to record every contact and piece of feedback. Don’t miss your spring COVID-19 vaccination If you are eligible for a spring COVID-19 vaccination, book your appointment now. In Somerset, people aged 75 and over, people living in older adult care homes, and people with a weakened immune system are eligible for extra protection this spring. You can book online, on the NHS App, by calling 119, or by visiting a walk-in site. For full details including the NHS England British Sign Language service go to the NHS Somerset website. We continue to work for you The King’s Speech on Wednesday 13 May 2026 confirmed that the Government plans to introduce the NHS Modernisation Bill. If this Bill becomes law, it could affect the future of NHS England and Healthwatch across the country. Full details and timescales have not yet been published. The Bill must still go through Parliament, and it could still be challenged or changed before anything is final. At this stage, there are still many unanswered questions about what any future changes could look like locally or nationally, including how people’s experiences of care would be gathered in future. While national discussions continue, we want to reassure everyone that Healthwatch Somerset continues to operate as usual. Further information can be found on Healthwatch England news pages. People in Somerset help choose our priorities for 2026/27 We are pleased to announce the launch of our People's Vote report. 161 local people have helped us decide which health and care issues to focus on in the year ahead. We asked people across the county to vote on the health and care topics they felt mattered most. The results will help shape our work in 2026/27 and make sure local people’s experiences stay at the heart of decision-making. Your feedback gives an important picture of what matters most to people in Somerset right now. We will use this insight to guide our engagement and research work over the coming year. Read the full report: The people’s voice: What matters most to you in Somerset health and care services 2026/27 How the Without Borders Café brings people together As part of Refugee Week, from 15 to 21 June 2026, we wanted to share the work of the Without Borders Café in Taunton. The café gives refugees, asylum seekers and local people a safe and welcoming place to meet, share food, and build friendships. Run by Charis and partner organisations, the café helps people feel included, build confidence and connect with their community. It also creates space to celebrate different cultures through food and conversation. When we visited the café, we met with a woman who we first spoke to months ago at a support session for women from Afghanistan. She told us then that she hoped to cook and share food from her home country. It was lovely to see her now doing just that. Her story shows how important welcoming spaces like the Without Borders Café can be for people starting a new life in a new country. More community events are expected across Taunton during Refugee Week. These usually include opportunities to come together, share food, music and culture, and show support for people seeking sanctuary. For the latest updates, visit the Taunton Welcomes Refugees website or read about the Vigil for Peace. Changes to free prescription charge rules From 15 April 2026, some people in Somerset may need to check whether they still qualify for free NHS prescriptions. This is because Income Support and income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance will no longer count as exemption benefits after this date. If you are moving onto Universal Credit, it is important to know that this does not automatically mean you can get free prescriptions. If you are unsure, it is a good idea to check before collecting your medicines so you do not get a penalty charge. Find out if you can get free prescriptions. NHS waiting times improve, but pressures remain across key services According to The Health Foundation, the NHS in England has met its main target for planned treatment waiting times, with more people receiving care within 18 weeks. This is a positive step and shows the hard work of NHS staff is making a difference. However, the report says performance is still falling short in other important areas, including A&E waits, ambulance response times and cancer care. Millions of people are still waiting too long for treatment, and progress is uneven across services. The Health Foundation says the improvements are encouraging but warns that long-term investment in staff, buildings, and equipment will be needed to deliver lasting change and improve patients’ experiences across the NHS. For more detail read Progress – but is it enough? What the latest NHS waiting times mean for elective recovery - The Health Foundation. New Somerset film helps young carers feel seen and heard Young carers from schools across Somerset have helped create a new film about what everyday life can look like when you are caring for someone at home. Sixteen children and young people, aged five to 18, took part and shared their own stories, including the worries they carry and the hopes they have for the future. We know young carers are quietly doing so much in families and communities across Somerset. It is important that they feel seen, listened to and supported. The film, Small Shoulders: when childhood carries more than it should, gives young carers a chance to share what life can be like and helps others understand why the right support at the right time can make such a difference. The Young Carers in Schools award helps schools recognise when a child may be caring for someone at home and respond with the right support. In Somerset, schools can get free guidance through the programme so staff feel more confident spotting young carers early and helping them feel understood, included and able to do well at school. The learning disability register: are you in? Mencap’s I’m In campaign is encouraging more people with a learning disability to join their GP’s learning disability register (LDR). Being on the register can help people get the right support, including a free annual health check from age 14. Mencap says people with a learning disability die, on average, nearly 20 years younger than people without a learning disability, and many of these deaths could be avoided. If you or someone you support has a learning disability, you can find out everything you need to know about the learning disability register on Mencap’s website. They also have an Easy Read letter building tool so you can communicate your request with your GP surgery to be added to the LDR. We have signed up to support the campaign as an organisation and will be highlighting the benefits of joining your GP’s LDR through our work. A welcoming space for dads in West Somerset Dads in West Somerset are being invited to join The Dad Club a project from Home-Start West Somerset. The Dad Club offers a friendly space where fathers can meet, chat and support each other. The group offers relaxed activities including seafront walks, pop-up barber sessions, trips out and one-to-one support, helping dads feel less isolated and more linked in to their community. If you’re a dad looking to meet others, have a chat or get some extra support, you can contact Daniel James, Dad Club Coordinator, on 07483 123652 or email dan@homestart-westsomerset.org.uk. You can also find out more through their social media pages, the handle is @Thedadclubwestsomerset on Facebook and Instagram. Feel good through the power of music A new music therapy group from the MHA for people aged 55+ in Taunton, is offering a welcoming space to relax, connect, and enjoy music in whatever way feels right for you. Music therapy is a structured, evidence-based activity led by trained therapists that supports emotional wellbeing, communication and social connection. Familiar music can help spark memories, lift mood and provide gentle cognitive stimulation, while shared sessions can reduce stress and create opportunities to meet others. The best part? You do not need any musical experience and there is no pressure to take part in a certain way. Whether you sing along, try an instrument, tap your feet, or simply sit back and enjoy the music, everyone is welcome. The sessions run on Mondays from 2:00–3:00pm at Lisieux Way Methodist Church in Taunton, with tea and coffee available. Extra support and companionship coming to Yeovil Hospital People receiving end-of-life care at Yeovil Hospital will now have access to extra support and companionship, thanks to the expansion of Marie Curie’s Hospital Companion Service. The service has already been supporting people in other parts of Somerset and is now reaching more patients and families locally. Trained volunteers offer a friendly presence, emotional support, and time to listen – helping people feel less alone during what can be a difficult time. The service can also give families and carers the chance to take a short break, knowing their loved one has someone there with them. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference, and this expansion is a positive step in helping people receive compassionate support when they need it most. Join us in June 😎 Drop in and talk to us about your experiences or for information and advice about health and care services in Somerset. Date and times Details June 2, 2026 10:30am to 12:30am Taunton Library Paul St, Taunton, TA1 3XZ June 4, 2026 10:00am to 12:00pm South Petherton Community Library 3 St James's St, South Petherton, TA13 5BS June 9, 2026 10:30am to 12:30pm Porlock Community Library The Old School Centre, High St, Porlock, Minehead, TA24 8NP June 12, 2026 10:00am to 1:00pm Senior Citizens Fair St Mary’s Church, St Mary Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3EQ June 13, 2026 10:00am to 4:00pm Collett Park Day Collett Park, Park Rd, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5BP June 16, 2026 11:00am to 1:00pm Yeovil Library King George Street, Yeovil, BA20 1PY June 19, 2026 10:30am to 12:30pm Wells Library Union St, Wells, BA5 2PU June 23, 2026 10:00am to 12:00pm Waffle over waffles at The Waffle Hub Community Café Methodist Church, 35A College St, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 1AS June 25, 2026 11:00am to 1:00pm Langport Library Whatley, Langport, TA10 9RA June 27, 2026 09:30am to 4:30pm Bridgwater Armed Forces Day Morganians Rugby Club, Chedzoy Lane, Bridgwater, TA7 8QW June 30, 2026 11:00am to 1:00pm Crewkerne Library Falkland Square, Crewkerne TA18 7JS Other important dates Date What Find out more 1 to 7 June Volunteers week https://volunteersweek.org/ 8 to 14 June Carers week https://www.carersweek.org/ 10 June Age without limits day https://www.agewithoutlimits.org/day 14 June World blood donor day https://www.blood.co.uk/ 9 to 15 June Men’s health week https://www.menshealthforum.org.uk/mhw 15 to 21 June Learning disability week https://www.mencap.org.uk/LDWeek 15 to 21 June Refugee week https://refugeeweek.org/ 22 June Windrush day https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windrush_Day 1 to 30 June Pride month https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pride_Month Want us to share your news? Do you have any health and care news or events you would like us to include in our June 2026 newsletter? If so, please send us you text with an accompanying image to info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk before Friday 12 June 2026. Get in touch Share your experiences of health and care services in Somerset so we can help influence change and make services better. Have your say using our website contact form, or call us free on 0800 999 1286. Do you have questions about health and care ‘jargon’? We can help, email you enquiries to info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk or call us free on 0800 999 1286. Our website Find out what we do in a variety of accessible formats https://www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/about-us Read our news and reports https://www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/newsandreports Volunteer with us https://www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/volunteer Contact us https://www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/contact-us Follow us on social media: BlueSky/@healthwatchsom.bsky.social Facebook.com/Healthwatchsomerset @healthwatchsomerset If you have been forwarded this newsletter and would like to join our mailing list, please follow this sign up to our newsletter link. Healthwatch Somerset, Suite 12, Wellworthys Business Centre, Parrett Way, Colley Lane, Bridgwater, TA6 5LB The Healthwatch Somerset service is run by The Advocacy People, an independent charity - Charity No. 1080679 limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales with Company No. 3963421. The registered office is at PO Box 375, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 9HU

We asked you to help shape our workplan for 2026/27 and our latest report shows the results of what you told us. We use the feedback we gather over the year, along with national priorities, to help decide what our key projects should be. This information is used to create a shortlist of topics for our workplan. We exist to represent the voice of the people To make sure our work reflects what matters most to you, we share the shortlist publicly each year. We then invite you to vote for your two preferred topics. This year: 161 people took part in our public vote The top priority was community health and wellbeing support The NHS referral process was the second most popular topic People also raised concerns about mental health, dentistry, GP services, and digital exclusion We will use this feedback to help shape our work in 2026/27 To find out the result, read our brief report which explains the methods and findings from our public engagement. Read our report If you need this report in a different format, please email info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk or call 0800 999 1286.

We heard from 161 people across the county about the health and care issues that matter most to them. Your feedback will help shape our work in 2026/27 and make sure local people’s experiences continue to be heard by decision makers. The four topics we asked you to vote on were: A. Community health and wellbeing support Your feedback shows us gaps in community support, causing some people to return to hospital because post-discharge care isn’t reliable. We will gather your experiences of post discharge care and use them to influence the structure of Neighbourhood Health Hubs. B. Has the NHS referral process improved? In 2025, you told us NHS referrals were often delayed or lost, and that communication while waiting was unclear. We will look at whether recent national changes have improved the process and use your feedback to help shape services. C. Men’s health and wellbeing services Following the launch of the first Men’s Health Strategy in 2025, we want to hear from men in Somerset about their health and wellbeing needs. Their views on services will help improve care and reduce health inequalities and barriers. D. Support for parent carers of adult children Our work with carers has highlighted difficulties that parent carers of adult children with learning disabilities and complex neurodiversity face. We aim to understand these challenges and use your insight to improve support services and care for families. The most popular topic in our public vote was community health and wellbeing support. This was the clear first choice for many people and the most popular topic overall. The second most popular topic was the NHS referral process, showing that people are still concerned about how easy it is to get the care they need. We also asked people if there were other issues they wanted us to look at. Mental health services were mentioned most often, including support for children and young people. People also raised concerns about access to NHS dentists, GP appointments, and digital exclusion, especially when services are harder to use without going online. This feedback gives us an important picture of what matters most to people in Somerset right now. We will use it to help guide our engagement and research work over the coming year, so that people’s voices remain at the heart of local health and care services. Read and download a PDF copy of the full report from our reports page using the link below. The people's voice: What matters most to you in Somerset health and care services 2026/27

We asked you to help shape our workplan for 2025/26 and our latest report shows the results of what you told us. Each year, we gather information about how local health and social services are running and use it to spot common patterns or issues. Using the intelligence collected over the course of 12 months, alongside wider national considerations, our Advisory Board discuss possible key projects for the next year. Our goal is to listen to what people have to say. We want to make sure that the main projects we choose for the year are sound and clear, and that they truly reflect the needs of the community. Every year, we share a list of the top project ideas with the public, and everyone gets a chance to pick their two favourite options. This year our four shortlisted topics were: Waiting lists for procedures Waiting times for medical procedures are a problem across the country, but here locally, we’ve noticed that people are not getting clear updates about their wait times and the procedures themselves. We want to look into how and when patients are being informed while they’re waiting for their medical treatments. Hospital transport Somerset's rural nature makes travelling to and from hospital appointments challenging for those unable to use standard transport. We aim to understand the experiences of people booking hospital transport and the service's communication with patients. Transfer of Care/Discharge from hospital - excluding dementia During 2024 people shared with us the difficulties they have experienced when moving from the hospital to back home. We want to listen to patients and carers tell us what they need when leaving hospital. Long wait for/no support for children and adolescents experiencing poor mental health The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in Somerset provides mental health evaluations, support for children and young people up to 18 years old and can direct you to other helpful services. We aim to explore how help is given and what procedures are in place for those who do not qualify. To find out the result, read our brief report which explains the methods and findings from our public investigation. The people’s choice 2025: Listening to your voice in our key projects for in 2025/26

SignHealth has launched Deaf Wave, a new online space created with deaf young people. It shares information, stories and support in British Sign Language (BSL) and English. What’s happening Deaf Wave logo provided by Sign Health Deaf Wave is a website for deaf children and young people (around ages 13 to 25). It brings together accessible health and wellbeing information, with content designed to feel relevant to deaf young people’s lives. The site was co-created with deaf young people through workshops and school groups, with input from SignHealth’s Young People Advisory Board. Deaf young designers and BSL translators helped shape the look, layout, and accessibility. Why this matters Many deaf young people face extra barriers when it comes to getting the right support at the right time. This can include: feeling isolated or low more often than hearing young people not always having the words (or access) to explain how they feel or ask for help not knowing what accessible support is available very different levels of support in schools and colleges depending on where you live What you’ll find on Deaf Wave Healthy mind – support for wellbeing and mental health Relationships – help with family, friends and staying safe in relationships My health rights – what to expect when booking appointments and seeing healthcare professionals Safe sex – information about consent and where to get advice School stress – tips for managing stress and dealing with bullying How to access Deaf Wave You can visit Deaf Wave here: deafwave.signhealth.org.uk. The site includes content in both BSL and English. Have your say If you are deaf, or you support a deaf young person, Healthwatch Somerset would like to hear what helps (and what makes it harder) to get information and support about health and wellbeing. Your experiences can help services understand what needs to change. If you’d like to share your experience with Healthwatch Somerset, call us on 0800 999 1286, email info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk, or use our ‘Have your say’ form at healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/have-your-say. Contact Healthwatch in British Sign Language If you’d like to share your experience in BSL, you can book a free video call with Healthwatch through Convo (previously SignLive), an online interpreting service. Find out how to book a BSL video call: Contact us using British Sign Language | Healthwatch. Source: SignHealth Deaf Wave press release (April 2026).

Our April Newsletter includes updates about our work, information about health and care services, and helpful advice. Photo of bluebells in a wood in Somerset To read our April Newsletter - click on the PDF below: If you need this newsletter in a different format, please email: info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk or call 0800 999 1286.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated Cooksons Court nursing home in Yeovil, Somerset as Outstanding overall, following an inspection in December 2025. Not an image of Cooksons Court, Yeovil. Image is illustrative only, source: Image library | Age without limits We’re sharing this update because CQC ratings can be a helpful starting point when you’re choosing care, or checking how a service is doing. Overall rating: Outstanding Safe: Good Effective: Good Caring: Outstanding Responsive: Good Well-led: Outstanding Cooksons Court is a nursing home that can support up to 65 older adults. At the time of the inspection, 47 people were living there. What inspectors found Strong leadership: Inspectors said leaders had a clear vision for the home and were open, visible and approachable. Personalised support: Staff knew people’s needs, interests and preferences, and helped people to do things that mattered to them. Helping people live meaningful lives: Inspectors noted an example where someone who enjoyed gardening was supported to grow vegetables, which were then used in the home’s kitchen. Responding in a crisis: The service was described as going out of its way to support people and families during difficult times, including before people were admitted. Staff felt able to speak up: Staff told inspectors they felt supported and valued, with systems in place so concerns were listened to and acted on. Learning from incidents: Inspectors found the home investigated incidents and shared learning so people were better protected over time. Planning for complex needs: In one case, staff completed specialist clinical training before someone moved in, so care could be provided safely from day one. What CQC said Stefan Kallee, CQC deputy director of adult social care for the Southwest, said: 'When we inspected Cookson’s Court, we found a home with excellent leadership and a staff team who clearly cared deeply about the people they supported.' What happens next You can read the full inspection report on the CQC website by clicking this link: Cooksons Court - Care Quality Commission or click the button below to download a PDF version. If you or someone you know uses this service, you can also share your experience with CQC to help inform future inspections. You can also tell us about your experience of health and social care services in Somerset so we can use people’s feedback to help improve care. What do CQC ratings mean? Outstanding – the service is performing exceptionally well. Good – the service is performing well and meeting people’s needs. Requires improvement – the service is not performing as well as it should and must make improvements. Inadequate – the service is performing poorly and people may be at risk of harm. CQC ratings can help people and families compare services and ask questions when choosing care. Talk to us If you’d like to share your experience of a care home or any other health and social care service in Somerset, we’d like to hear from you. What you tell us helps us understand what’s working well and what needs to change. Contact us online: Have Your Say | Healthwatch Somerset Call us free: 0800 999 1286