Healthwatch Hartlepool

11/06/2026

The DHSC and NHSE are running a short survey to learn what people think about the NHS Health Check programme. The public perspective - whether they've heard of or used the service or not - is incredibly valuable.
This survey will help us understand what’s working, what isn’t, and how the programme can better reach and support people in staying healthy.

The survey should take around 10 minutes to complete. It is anonymous and open to everyone.
Follow the link to take part today and please share with your networks:

The most powerful, simple and trusted way to gather experience data. Start your journey to experience management and try a free account today.

09/06/2026

01/06/2026

The Healthwatch Hartlepool digital update for May
is now available! Click on the link below to read!

The North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) is working with the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS and partners to review NHS patient transport services in the North East.

28/05/2026

Do you use NHS patient transport services?
The North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) is working with the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS and partners to review NHS patient transport services in the North East.
Patient transport helps people get to and from hospital if they cannot travel safely on their own because of their health or mobility needs.
Feedback indicates the service does not always work well, with people saying:
• waits can be long
• the rules are not always clear
• services can be different depending on where you live
The ICB are looking at ways to improve the service and proposing some changes to the rules of who can use the service in line with NHS England guidelines. This could include:
• Clear and consistent rules across the North East
• Looking at each person's needs, not just how far they travel
• Asking a few simple questions to understand needs
• A standard mileage rate of 25p per mile for people who quality for the NHS Healthcare Travel Cost Scheme (HTCS) to claim back their travel expenses. It is now between 14p to 25p depending on where you live.
They are also looking at
• Better support for people who travel often (for example, dialysis patients)
• Reducing journeys that are booked but not used
For more information visit:
North East and North Cumbria NHS patient transport services
Healthwatch is helping to make sure users of the service can have their say. If you do use the Patient Transport Service now or have done in the last three years, you can:
• Complete the ICB’s survey online here https://ex.civicamysay.co.uk/BD9WjeSmCx
• If you are sent the survey through the post you should complete and return it
• Contact us if you want to discuss your use of the service and how changes might work for you.
Please complete the survey by 3 July 2026.

18/05/2026

Do you live in Hartlepool and are you aged 40 – 74?

Why not come along to Place in the Park for our Hartlepool and Stockton Health drop-in session, where they will be offering free NHS Health Checks for those who are eligible.
If you’re not sure if you’re eligible, please check NHS Health Check - NHS https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/nhs-health-check/

• Place in the Park, Ward Jackson Park, Elwick Road, TS26 0BQ
• Wednesday 27th May
• 9.30am - 4.20pm

The NHS Health Check is a health check-up for adults in England aged 40 to 74.

13/05/2026

05/05/2026

Still using a blue inhaler?
It's time for an upgrade!
Blue inhalers help to open your airways so
you can breathe more easily, but Asthma is
also caused by swelling inside your lungs.
Combination inhalers can:
✔ Help you breathe easier
✔ Reduce swelling in your lungs
This means:
• Less risk of Asthma attacks
• Better daily control
• Healthier lungs
What should you do?
If you use a blue inhaler, it’s important to
have an Asthma review.
An Asthma review will:
• Check your symptoms
• Make sure you’re using your inhaler
correctly
• See if a combination inhaler is right for you
Call your GP practice today to your
review.