Bolton residents are being asked to share their experiences of using Healthwatch in Greater Manchester and their views on how they give feedback or raise concerns about health and care services, amid government proposals that could abolish the independent watchdog Healthwatch. An online consultation launched on 4 June 2026 by Healthwatch Bolton invites feedback on how people currently raise concerns and what they value about the service. The call for views comes as the NHS Modernisation Bill makes its way through Parliament, threatening to transfer local Healthwatch branches to NHS bodies and local authorities, while Healthwatch England would move to the Department of Health and Social Care.
Healthwatch Bolton stressed that no changes have become law yet and the Bill may be amended during its passage. The organisation said it remains open and fully independent for now, continuing to gather patient experiences, speak up on behalf of residents and offer advice. In a statement on its website, it warned the proposed shake-up risks “removing the independent voice of patients and service users” and could undermine its trusted role, particularly for those facing barriers in accessing care.
The views collected through the Healthwatch Bolton consultation page will be used to help NHS Greater Manchester and the Mayor of Greater Manchester prepare for whatever may replace Healthwatch if it is eventually ended. The engagement is part of a wider push by the Greater Manchester Healthwatch Network to safeguard residents’ ability to influence how complaints and feedback shape local services.
Healthwatch Bolton is also encouraging residents to write to their MP to protect its independent role. The organisation warned the changes risk silencing the voices of those who most need to be heard, particularly people who already face barriers in accessing care or being listened to. The consultation is open to all residents across Greater Manchester.
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