Healthwatch Cumberland launched this winter, with an event that brought together health and care decision makers, volunteers (third sector), and members of the community.
Healthwatch Cumberland works strategically alongside Healthwatch England, other local Healthwatch groups, and the Care Quality Commission to ensure the views of people living in Cumberland are represented at both a local and national level. Healthwatch works to champion the needs of local people, highlighting views and experiences to drive improvements to health and care.
The event, which took place at the People First Conference Centre in Carlisle, brought together a mix of attendees for discussion and collaboration, with speakers including representatives from Healthwatch England, community champions, and third sector voices.
David Blacklock, CEO of Healthwatch Cumberland said: “It was great to have so many individuals dedicated to improving health and care across Cumbria in the one room. During the event we shared Healthwatch’s Cumberland’s priorities for the year ahead; priorities which have been identified through our recent ‘Here for You’ where we asked local people to share their experiences with us.
People told us what they love about living in Cumberland, and what daily health and social care challenges they face in their community. This event provided a platform for us to share what we’ve heard and to work with individuals in the health and care sector to really effect positive change.”
Healthwatch Cumberland also showcased its recent flagship project, Disability Voices.
Disability Voices has engaged with hundreds of individuals plus various community groups and organisations across Cumbria to ask what it’s like for people with a disability living in Cumbria.
Lindsay Graham, Director of Healthwatch Cumberland said: “At the event we shared the results of our recent Disability Voices investigation into the barriers people face in being able to live their best life and what needs to change in the future.
Our resulting Disability Voices Report was also shared and includes our full findings, including the personal stories of those living with disabilities in Cumbria, and importantly our recommendations for the NHS and local authorities.
We have an incredible community in Cumbria and I know that if we all work together then we can make a real difference to the lives of those living with a disability in Cumbria.”
The day also featured interactive community stands and provided the opportunity for attendees to network with senior decision-makers, local organisations, community champions, and Healthwatch Cumberland’s engagement team.
To find out more about Healthwatch, or to share your views and help shape local services, visit www.healthwatchcumberland.co.uk.
