News and reports

Our new report explores the impact of the NHS Hospital at Home service on unpaid carers and patients across Dorset. The findings show that while carers value the service highly, many also face increased stress and challenges in supporting loved ones at home.

The service provides acute, short-term NHS care in people’s own homes as an alternative to hospital admission. The model has grown nationally, aiming to reduce pressure on hospitals while supporting patients to recover in familiar surroundings.

This month our Engagement Officer Lucy Cribb spoke to Graeme White, Head of Addiction Services at University Hospitals Dorset.

We join 131 local Healthwatch to oppose Government plans to undermine independent public voice.

We want to assure our communities, partners and stakeholders that we remain fully committed to delivering the important work of Healthwatch Dorset.

Our Annual Report 2024-25 highlights how we listened to over 7,000 people last year, supporting them to have their say to improve health and social care and to get information and advice about local services.

Healthwatch Dorset Annual Report 2024-25: A review of our work over the past year and its impact, plus our work planned for 2025-26.

To mark and celebrate Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History month, we have gathered insights from local people who either support or are part of the local Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities to amplify their voices.

Our Engagement Officer Lucy Cribb spoke to Reverend Jonathan Herbert about his work in supporting the local Gypsy, Roma and Travellers communities across Dorset.

Our Volunteer Officer Lindsey Fish caught up with Lisa to chat about some of her reflections on volunteering with Healthwatch Dorset for over 10 years.

From 2-8 June 2025, we will join thousands of charities and voluntary organisations recognising the contribution volunteers make across the UK.

Everyone who uses the NHS in England could soon have a single patient record that brings together important information about your health care.