1. Advice and Information -

    We've pulled together a number of services for parents in need of support for their mental health. Read more to find out where you can go to get the help you need.
  2. Advice and Information -

    Take a look at our advice article on the organisations and groups that can support you if you’re grieving.
  3. Advice and Information -

    If you are experiencing or feel at risk of domestic abuse, or are worried about someone who might be, find out where you can go for advice and help.
  4. Advice and Information -

    With more and more appointments happening online, we've put together some tips on how to get the most out of the virtual health and care appointments both for patients and health and care professionals.
  5. Advice and Information -

    Your mental wellness is as important as your physical health but seeking help can be daunting. Here's what to expect when you seek support for your mental health.
  6. Advice and Information -

    The current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic may cause you to feel worried, anxious, or scared. Read our tips to looking after your wellbeing when self-isolating.
  7. Advice and Information -

    Mental health problems are more common among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ+) people. If you are struggling, feel alone or need a little help, then check out our guide on how you can get the support you need.
  8. Report -

    This project was an initiative by Healthwatch Halton, in light of the national and local transformations to children and young people (CYP)’s mental health services.
  9. Report -

    In July 2020 Healthwatch Halton were approached by NHS Bridgewater Community NHS Trust to look at the possibility of carrying out a further patient engagement project on behalf of the Trust to look at patient satisfaction levels with Children’s Specialist Services from Woodview Child Development Centre.

  10. News -

    Are you under 18 and need to talk to someone about your worries or concerns? Kooth are holding some free drop in sessions in Widnes where you can chat in confidence to someone about anything worrying you.
  11. Report -

    Report on our visit to the Brooker Centre on 25 July 2018
  12. Advice and Information -

    Here's a list of useful information on various independent support organisations to help you find support that's right for you.
  13. News -

    Mental health problems exist in our lives, families, workplaces and communities, impacting everyone. Mental health problems can affect anyone, any day of the year, but World Mental Health day (10/10) is a great day to show your support for better mental health and start looking after your own wellbeing.
  14. News -

    Millions around the UK experience stress and it can be damaging to our health and wellbeing. Wednesday the 2nd of November 2022 is Stress Awareness Day. The day will be used to highlight the ways that stress can affect people and what you can do to manage your stress before it becomes a problem.

  15. News -

    Since 2003, Movember has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, challenging the status quo, shaking up men’s health research and transforming the way health services reach and support men. The funds raised develop work in mental health and suicide prevention, prostate and testicular cancer.

  16. News -

    Pregnancy is a major life event for any family. It can be joyful and fulfilling but also challenging. We’re launching a national survey to understand if care works for new mothers and birthing parents. Share your story
  17. Advice and Information -

    In a post-pandemic world where the cost-of-living crisis is beginning to hit home for many of us, prioritising our mental health and wellbeing is necessary.
  18. Advice and Information -

    The continuing cost of living crisis is adversely affecting people's physical and mental wellbeing, with vulnerable people and those on lower incomes hit the hardest.
  19. Advice and Information -

    Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses that anyone can develop, regardless of age, income and ethnicity. Take a look at some of the common signs of eating disorders and where to go for support if you need help.
  20. Advice and Information -

    Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression triggered by seasonal changes. One in twenty people in the UK are diagnosed with the condition, with men more likely to be diagnosed with SAD than women.
  21. Advice and Information -

    75% of children and young people who experience mental health problems aren't getting the help they need.
  22. News -

    Do you or a family member use mental health services? By applying to become a Service User Representative with the Mental Health Research for Innovation Centre (M-RIC), your voice could help shape future care and treatments. 
  23. News -

    Help give a voice to children and young people across the UK in Children’s Mental Health Week, from 5-11 February 2024.
    Children's Mental Health Week is a mental health awareness week that empowers, equips and gives a voice to all children and young people in the UK.
  24. News -

    R;pple is an interceptive tool designed to present a visual prompt when a person searches for harmful keywords or phrases relating to the topic of self-harm or suicide.
    R;pple intervention technique catches people when they are most vulnerable, and helps redirect them to immediate support sources.
  25. News -

    The Calm your mind campaign aims to bring information on male mental health and shared stories from those who have experienced their own struggles.
  26. News -

    We’re proud to support the Mental Health Foundation this Mental Health Awareness Week running from the 13th - 19th May.

    This year’s theme is movement: moving more for our mental health.

  27. Advice and Information -

    You've told us that you've experienced problems registering with a GP. This article explains more about your rights and what to do if you're refused the right to register.
  28. Advice and Information -

    Find out what support is available to help you when travelling to your GP, hospital or other NHS services.
  29. Advice and Information -

    The way people access healthcare has changed a lot during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  30. Report -

    In an extensive review of people’s access to GP services, Healthwatch England have analysed a range of sources, drawing on almost 200,000 people’s experiences shared between April 2019 and December 2020.
  31. Advice and Information -

    If you’re removed from your GP practice’s list, you may need to register with another GP practice.
  32. Advice and Information -

    When you need specialist NHS support, like hospital tests or treatment, you often need a referral from your GP first. Find out what this includes and what to expect.
  33. Report -

    During December 2020 and January 2021, a group of Healthwatch volunteers went online and visited all 14 local GP practice websites.
  34. News -

    Have you or your loved one been left frustrated after struggling to get a GP referral for tests or treatment? You’re not alone.
  35. Advice and Information -

    For new arrivals to the UK it can be confusing where to go if you need medical assistance. Here we outline your rights as a refugee, where you can access emergency help and how to register for a GP.
  36. Blog -

    The latest research from Healthwatch England follows people's experiences of getting a GP referral.
    The process for many is long and often confusing. There is a need to address issues around people's GP referral journey so that it works for everyone.
  37. News -

    National GP patient survey sees a further fall in satisfaction, especially regarding making appointments. Read the Healthwatch response.
  38. Advice and Information -

    The cost-of-living crisis is putting many people under financial strain, and prescription costs are more than some people can afford to pay. Find out what help is available to help you cover the cost of your medication.
  39. News -

    STAMMA, the British Stammering Association, recommends changes in GP appointment booking systems nationwide after a survey showed that phone-only systems and lack of staff training cause people who stammer to face physical and mental distress, delayed appointments, and late diagnoses.
  40. News -

    New research from Healthwatch England shows worryingly low public confidence in being able to access NHS services. A third of adults in England lack confidence that they can access timely care, including GP services, mental health support and hospital care. Read the findings and the calls for action.
  41. News -

    With the NHS under immense pressure, Healthwatch look at the impact that waiting for a diagnosis, test, or treatment can have on individuals and some of the potential solutions that might help.
  42. Advice and Information -

    Around one in five GP visits are for non-medical problems. Many things that affect our health can’t be treated by doctors or medicine alone. This includes loneliness, money problems, housing, education or employment status. NHS social prescribing link workers can connect you to the right community groups and services to help support you.
  43. News -

    ​​​​​​​A new report sets out NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s plan for improving access and making it easier and simpler for patients to access the care they need, and supporting GP practices to manage demand and capacity through a range of additional measures. In 2023/24 this will be supported by a total of £90 million investment in primary care general practice and related measures contained in the plan.
  44. Advice and Information -

    From 31 October 2023, GP surgeries must give patients online access to their new health record entries. Find out what information is in your record and how to access it.
  45. News -

    We want to hear what matters to you and what areas of health and social care you think we should focus on for the year ahead. We are also giving you the chance to win a £25 gift voucher!
  46. Advice and Information -

    Do you struggle to speak to your doctor about your medical concerns? You’re not alone.
    Take a look at our top tips to make the most out of your GP appointment.