Heathwatch Devon reveals people’s health priorities for 2018 and encourages people to share their stories.

From April to September 2017, Healthwatch Devon engaged with more than 3,240 people through events, activities, project work and surveys.

Included in this figure are the 151 people who have used the ‘have your say’ feedback form to share their experiences of health and social care services across Devon.

The services that are being reported to Healthwatch Devon include hospital services, primary care services, adult social care and mental health services.

Healthwatch Devon has joined a national campaign, launched by Healthwatch England to encourage more people to share their ideas and experiences.

If you have an idea that could help improve health and social care, please contact www.healthwatchdevon.co.uk and #SpeakUp.

Chief Executive of Healthwatch Devon, Colin Potter said: “The more that people share their ideas, experiences and concerns about NHS and social care, the more services can understand when improvements are needed.

“That is why we are encouraging people to #SpeakUp in 2018 to help make services better for the people of Devon”.

Healthwatch England have revealed the top five priorities that people nationally would like the organisation to look further into. This includes mental health services, adult social care, service changes, hospital care and access to GP and dental services.

Mental health was the top priority for the third year running, with people raising this as an issue in 65% of areas. The lack of mental health awareness, early intervention and difficulty accessing effective and appropriate support were key themes raised.

The list of priorities created will shape work over the next twelve months. Last year over 340,000 people spoke up about their experiences and shared their ideas with Healthwatch England.

To share your experiences or ideas with Healthwatch Devon please look here.