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Here at EK360 we hold the contracts for both local Healthwatch Kent and Healthwatch Medway.
Over the past year, Healthwatch Medway has continued to make sure local people’s voices are heard and used to improve health and social care services.
We supported over 1,500 people to share their experiences and helped nearly 3,000 residents access advice and information about services including mental health, dentistry and GP care.
With the support of our 11 volunteers and small staff team, we published 20 reports highlighting what matters most to people in Medway—from young people’s mental health to the experiences of unpaid carers.
Listening to what matters most
This year, we heard from communities across Medway about a wide range of issues affecting their health and wellbeing.
Our research highlighted:
Ongoing challenges in accessing mental health support, especially for children and young people
The significant impact of caring responsibilities, particularly on carers’ physical health, employment and wellbeing
Concerns about community safety, housing, and health inequalities
Barriers to accessing services for some communities, including people experiencing homelessness or living in rural areas
We also worked hard to hear from people whose voices are less often heard, ensuring a more inclusive picture of local health and care experiences.
Making a difference
We use your feedback to influence decision-makers and improve services. This year, our work led to:
Input into local and national decision-making, including evidence submitted to government committees and local consultations
Improvements to mental health awareness and support, including workshops and resources for young people
Action from partners to better support unpaid carers, including new engagement approaches and improved information
Stronger collaboration with organisations like Medway Council, the NHS and safeguarding boards to ensure people’s experiences shape services
Supporting people to find help
As well as gathering feedback, we provide trusted information and signposting.
This year, we helped thousands of people:
Understand their rights and navigate services
Access the support they need
Raise concerns and resolve issues with providers
In some cases, our intervention led directly to improved outcomes—for example, helping residents access interpreter services or resolve issues with GP registration.
Looking ahead
We remain committed to making sure everyone in Medway has the opportunity to share their experience and shape the care they receive.
Our priorities for the coming year include:
Hearing more from underrepresented communities
Increasing feedback about social care services
Exploring how people’s experiences contribute to health inequalities
Get involved
Your voice matters. By sharing your experiences, you can help improve care for everyone in Medway. Email us at enquiries@healthwatchmedway.com
