Your Voice Matters — Help Shape Future Of Island Healthwatch Services

Islanders are being encouraged to take part in a new survey that will help shape how Healthwatch services are provided on the Isle of Wight in the years ahead.

The Isle of Wight Council is preparing to award a new contract for the delivery of this important statutory service, as the current arrangement is due to end on 31 December 2025.

Before that happens, the council wants to hear from local people about what they expect from their Healthwatch service — and how it should be delivered.

What is Healthwatch?

Healthwatch is the independent voice for people who use health and social care services.

It listens to the experiences of residents, shares that feedback with those in charge, and helps ensure services are meeting the needs of the community.

From helping someone find the right support for a loved one, to advising on how to make a complaint, or simply passing on praise for a job well done, Healthwatch plays a vital role in making sure local services work for the people who use them.

It also provides clear, accessible information and advice to help residents understand their options and make informed decisions about their care. In some cases, Healthwatch can even recommend that national bodies such as the Care Quality Commission (CQC) carry out formal reviews or investigations.

Why your views matter

The council is keen to ensure that the next Healthwatch contract reflects the needs and priorities of the Island’s diverse communities. To do that, they need to hear directly from the people who live here.

“We hope to get a clear picture of what the public expect from their local Healthwatch service,” said Laura Gaudion, the council's strategic director for adult social care and housing.

“This isn’t just a tick-box exercise — it’s about listening to the people who use health and care services every day and making sure their voices shape how the next service is designed.

"Whether it’s about how easy it is to get advice, how well feedback is acted upon, or how visible and approachable the service is in our communities, we want to hear it all.

"The more people who take part, the better we can ensure the new Healthwatch provider truly reflects the needs and priorities of Islanders.”

Whether you’ve used Healthwatch before or not, your views are valuable.

The survey asks about how you’ve heard of Healthwatch, whether you’ve used its services, and how you’d prefer to engage with it in future. It also invites suggestions for improvement and gives you the chance to share your own experiences.

How to take part

The survey is available online via the council’s website, and paper copies can be picked up at libraries across the Island.

The closing date for comments is 11 August 2025.

It only takes a few minutes to complete, and all responses will be treated in confidence.