News & Events

We are pleased to announce our support for Healthwatch Bucks, helping to secure the continuation of this vital service for residents across Buckinghamshire.

Healthwatch Bucks, part of a national network of over 150 local Healthwatch organisations, is the independent champion for people using health and social care services. The organisation gathers feedback from residents about their experiences with GPs, hospitals, dentists, pharmacies, care homes and other services, ensuring that local voices are heard and used to improve care. It also provides trusted information to help people access the support they need.

In August 2025, following a prolonged tender process and wider national uncertainty, the previous Board of Healthwatch Bucks made the difficult decision to close the organisation by 31 December 2025. Following discussions with Healthwatch England, Buckinghamshire Council and former Board members, a solution was identified that would allow the organisation to continue.

As part of this new arrangement, members of our executive team have joined the Healthwatch Bucks Board. Tim Summerley, Chief Executive Officer, has been appointed Chair of Healthwatch Bucks, alongside Ally Fisk, People Director, and Steven Green, Finance Director. They join two existing Board members, bringing additional expertise in healthcare, leadership, governance, and finance.

With our support, Healthwatch Bucks is now able to remain operational while exploring longer-term sustainability options and the council has since extended their funding until March 2027.

This partnership, and the extended funding, means that residents across Buckinghamshire will continue to benefit from:

• • A trusted, independent organisation that listens to their experiences
  • Support to find reliable healthcare information
  • Guidance on raising concerns or complaints
  • A strong voice influencing real improvements in local services.

Zoe McIntosh, Chief Executive, Healthwatch Bucks, says, “Healthwatch Bucks will continue to champion the views of local people, working with the NHS, the Council and other health and care providers to ensure services meet the needs of the community.”

We’re committed to supporting Healthwatch Bucks while fully respecting its independence. Robust governance arrangements, including clear conflict of interest policies, are in place to ensure transparency and integrity are always maintained.

We’re proud to support this important work and look forward to working alongside CEO Zoe McIntosh and her team to support their work to help ensure that the voices of residents continue to make a difference. Residents are encouraged to share their experiences and help shape the future of health and social care in Buckinghamshire.