Healthwatch Salford - Annual Report 2025/26
- We’ve supported more than 5189 people to have their say and get information about their care.
- We currently employ 4 staff, and our work is supported by 23 volunteers.
- 1863 people shared their experiences of health and social care services with us, helping to raise awareness of issues and improve care.
- 3326 people came to us for clear advice and information on topics such as how to make a complaint and finding an NHS dentist.
- We published 4 reports about the improvements people would like to see in areas like mental health, staff and patient communication and homecare.
- We’re funded by Salford City Council. In 2025/26 we received £166,520, which is the same as the previous year.
"My welcome to our annual report this year feels a little different, and I’m not overstating it when I say this has been our most challenging year as an organisation. In June, the government announced its intention of abolishing all Healthwatch – the manner in which they did was inappropriate and unfair – no one within Healthwatch deserved that. The announcement came with no plan or timeline, leaving everyone in limbo."
"In August, we received the devastating news that our amazing Engagement Officer, Mark Lupton, had passed away. Mark was a wonderful colleague and a friend to everyone here at Healthwatch Salford and across health and social care in Salford – his loss is still being felt; however, the impact and legacy of his work endures and will continue to do so. The outpouring of support we have received in Salford from people who work alongside us during all of this – from the public, council, voluntary sector, and NHS was amazing. We genuinely do appreciate everyone’s support."
"Despite all this, we continue to work as hard as ever, listening to the people of Salford and ensuring their voices are heard whilst staying true to our values. An incredible 1863 people shared their experiences with us. An even more incredible 3326 people came to us for advice and information across health and social care. That’s all with a staff team of 4 people and the support of 23 volunteers! Over the past year, we have seen changes at board level, with several members stepping down and new appointees joining. I extend my sincere appreciation to all board members — past and present. As I write this, work is being done on what the future of independent voice looks like in Salford; however, I can assure you that we will continue to work as hard as ever for you, continuing to be independent, local and listening to experiences."
Sam Cook, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Salford
