News and reports

Our monthly forums are a chance for anyone and everyone to learn more about health and social care services in our area. We aim to keep you updated with any changes to services in particular, and health and social care in general. This is for sharing, so while we have a lot to say, we also want to hear your views and feedback, and answer your questions.

Did you know that there are more than 200 different sign languages in use around the globe? With more than 70 million deaf people worldwide, it’s important to be aware of this accessible, expressive form of communication.

In March 2022 HWG and HWN launched a survey to gather young people’s views and general experiences of loneliness and social isolation.

With living costs on the rise, Healthwatch England’s new findings show that health inequalities are widening as people in every part of the country struggle to pay for dental care.

Join the Your Care Your Way campaign

It has been a contractual requirement for each GP practice since April 2016 to have an active and involved Patient Participation Group (PPG).

We know some people feel anxious or worried when they’re told they need a colonoscopy but it’s important to have this test if you’re referred. Bowel Cancer UK has launched the Colonoscopy Confidence campaign to explain what a colonoscopy is, why it matters and encourage people to attend their appointment.

Did you know members of the public can now report patient safety incidents directly to the NHS’s National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS)?

Blaydon Urgent Treatment Centre now open for walk-in appointments

Gateshead Council has launched a £200,000 Digital Transformation and Support Fund to support small and medium sized voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations to identify the training and digital innovation their organisations need to help them grow and thrive.

Stoptober is back! The campaign is calling on smokers to join 2.3 million others who have made a quit attempt in the past decade. Over 6 million adults in England still smoke. It remains the leading cause of premature death, with almost 75,000 preventable deaths a year.

Millions of people have had their treatment delayed by the pandemic – are you one of them? We want to know if you’re getting the advice, information and support you need while you wait.