Healthwatch Gateshead supported 8,249 people to share their experiences and find information about health and social care services during 2025-2026, according to its latest annual report published on 24 June. The independent champion for users of local services also saw 526 residents take part in research projects that produced seven detailed reports on issues ranging from dementia care to hospital discharge.
Research into unpaid dementia caregivers uncovered stark gaps in support, with 80% reporting their social life had been negatively impacted and one in five receiving no help from any organisation. A separate neurodiversity study found 54% of younger adults aged 18 to 24 received no support after diagnosis, while 73% of over-50s felt healthcare professionals did not understand their needs. Beyond research, the organisation carried out three Enter and View visits at residential care homes—Sister Winifred Laver Centre in June 2025, Appletree Grange Care Home in January 2026, and St Mark’s Court Care Home in March 2026—where authorised representatives observed care delivery and spoke directly with residents.
One of the most concrete results came at Sister Winifred Laver Centre, which had been rated inadequate and placed in special measures. Following a visit and nine recommendations from Healthwatch Gateshead, the home introduced regular staff supervisions, personalised care with named key workers, and better communication systems. The organisation’s work during the year was delivered by 17 volunteers and six staff, funded mainly by a £140,250 grant from Gateshead Council with an extra £13,835.15 from the Integrated Care Board for specific projects.
The report’s publication comes against a backdrop of uncertainty. In July 2025 the government announced plans to close local Healthwatch services and Healthwatch England as part of wider NHS national reforms. For now, the team has set emerging priorities for 2026-27 that include mental health services, improvements to communications, the closure of COVID-19 clinics, and chiropody provision.
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