12 ways local Healthwatch have made a difference in 2015

As the year comes to a close, we look back on some of the great things the Healthwatch network has achieved this year.

These stories showcase not only the hard work and dedication of local Healthwatch, but importantly the changes and improvements they have helped bring about for health and social care.

1. Faster diagnosis for those with autism
With the help of Healthwatch Cheshire East, people with autism were finally able to get a diagnosis after waiting years to be heard.

2. Community helps to improve mental health services
Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust committed to carry out more culturally sensitive training after Healthwatch Suffolk showcased the experiences of black and minority ethnic people through their Inspiring Progress report.

We produced a video to launch our #inpiringprogress report at an event with @NSFTtweets - Watch now: https://t.co/mB4zPDFgf7

— Healthwatch Suffolk (@HWSuffolk) November 30, 2015

3. Young ambassadors champion eye care at primary schools

Healthwatch Bedford encouraged young people to get involved with health issues and to take care of their eyes.

4. Young people share their concerns about body image
Healthwatch Sutton premiered a thought-provoking film to open a discussion on the pressures young people feel about their body image.

5. A step forward for podiatry care
Healthwatch Cambridgeshire made it easier for patients to understand what podiatry services they can access.

Together we helped make a difference with your stories of foot care. #podiatry http://t.co/1CtOb84dMp pic.twitter.com/AS6aJc1NkL

— Healthwatch Cambs (@HW_CAMBS) September 23, 2015

6. GP surgeries update good practice when registering new patients
Healthwatch Southampton helped local people to access essential health services.

7. Local people help to improve disability access at Royal Bolton Hospital
Bolton Hospital Trust agreed to improve accessibility issues after feedback from their local Healthwatch and Healthwatch Bolton.

Read about how we have helped to improve disabled access to Bolton Hospital @HealthwatchE @Boltonnhsft http://t.co/NKaeqrBIJt

— Healthwatch Bolton (@HWBolton) September 3, 2015

8. Cornwall council announce plans to improve home care
Cornwall council confirmed an additional £4.5 million for the Adult Care budget following an investigation by Healthwatch Cornwall into struggling care homes.