News and reports

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is excited about the government’s latest announcement on hospital development, which includes significant projects for the region. Hinchingbrooke Hospital and the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital have been prioritised under Wave One of the New Hospital Programme, with construction scheduled to begin between 2025 and 2030.

The redevelopment of Hinchingbrooke Hospital will address critical infrastructure needs, enhancing safety and capacity for the local community. Meanwhile, the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital, part of the Addenbrooke’s site, will integrate cutting edge research with patient care, offering new hope in the fight against cancer.

The health secretary, also highlighted the urgency of rebuilding the seven RAAC hospitals, which include Hinchingbrooke Hospital, to protect patient safety. These hospitals, alongside other priority projects like the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital, will lead the first wave of construction.

Jonathan Jelley, MBE, JP, Acting Chair of Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, expressed his enthusiasm: "We are thrilled to see tangible progress on these hospital projects in our region. These investments reflect a genuine commitment to improving healthcare for our communities. Healthwatch will continue to collaborate with local stakeholders to ensure that these developments meet the needs of our residents."

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough remains dedicated to monitoring these projects and advocating for transparent communication with the public. We encourage residents to share their views on healthcare services to help shape the future of local health infrastructure.

Our January Board meeting will include the Chairs and CEO's updates on our activity since Septembers meeting as well as the annual report on our Volunteering activity provided by Caroline Tyrrell-Jones, Head of Operations.

Youthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, has released its 2024 Vaping Report, highlighting critical insights into vaping trends among young people. This research reflects the perspectives, behaviours, and concerns of local youth, providing a understanding of the growing prevalence of vaping in the region.

The report is the result of engagement, including surveys and focus groups conducted with young people aged 11-25. It uncovers key findings, such as the fact that 66% of young people had their first vaping experience between ages 13-16, with single-use vapes being the most popular choice. Alarmingly, 92% of respondents believe vaping is harmful to health, and 93% recognise its environmental impact, particularly the challenges of recycling disposable vapes.

Youthwatch members have also issued strong recommendations, including introducing early preventative education, enhancing recycling awareness, and providing targeted cessation support for young people already vaping. The report emphasises the role of peer pressure, social trends, and stress relief as significant motivators for vaping.

This report sheds light on a pressing public health issue, empowering local authorities, schools, and health services to take informed action and support the well-being of young people across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

NHS England have produced an easy read document on how to stay well this winter.

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have published a new report on tackling health inequalities which contains the findings of our recent Summit event. In attendance were members of the public with lived experience of health inequalities, healthcare professionals and policymakers.

The Carers Partnership Board has been working with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Partnership to improve services for carers who experience abuse. Our Healthwatch was invited to the launch of the Buses and Businesses against Abuse Campaign, and our Non-Executive Director, Frances Dewhurst, attended and has provided more information about the campaign.

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has published a report into the services provided at eye clinics based at local hospitals.

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have published a report into the services provided at eye clinics based at local hospitals.

Find out what support is available to help you when travelling to your GP, hospital or other NHS services.

Cambridgeshire, Peterborough & Royston’s dedicated mental health and wellbeing support website www.Keep-Your-Head.com has relaunched with a refreshed new look, offering local people quicker, easier access to information on local services and support available to them, or for those they care for. 

Are you struggling to find an NHS dentist? The new dental recovery plan might help you get the dental care you need.

Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough welcomed around 150 people to a Summit on tackling health inequalities on Wednesday 2nd October.