News and reports

This month at Healthwatch County Durham, we’re shining a spotlight on new reports, local support services and opportunities that could make a real difference to you or someone you care about.

From our latest findings on community mental health services to positive feedback from our recent Enter and View visit, alongside cancer support, autism services, employment programmes and free debt advice — there’s a wide range of important updates inside.

Whether you’re a service user, carer, professional or local resident, explore the full newsletter to stay informed and connected to support across County Durham.

Read the full February update here.

For many people in County Durham, accessing mental health support can feel like navigating a maze. Despite years of efforts under the Community Mental Health Transformation programme, residents and professionals alike report long waits, confusing referral pathways and inconsistent access to care – but why?

This report presents the findings of an independent evaluation of the Community Mental Health Transformation across County Durham. It brings together the experiences of people using services and those delivering them, highlighting what is working well, ongoing challenges, and key recommendations to support more joined-up, accessible and person-centred mental health support.

Healthwatch County Durham carried out an announced Enter and View visit to Unity House on 13 October 2025 to gather the views and experiences of residents, relatives, visitors, and staff, and to observe the environment and quality of care being provided. Unity House is run by Lifeways Community Care Limited and was rated Good by the Care Quality Commission at the time of the visit.

The You Told Us report highlights the experiences, feedback and concerns shared by local people about health and social care services. This report showcases what’s working well, identifies areas for improvement and demonstrates how residents’ voices are helping to shape better care across County Durham.

This month, we share some wonderful news as our Chair receives an MBE in the King’s New Year’s Honours, alongside an important opportunity for you to help shape future palliative and end-of-life care services in our region.

Click below to read more and find out how you can get involved.

This report presents the findings from our authorised representatives' 'Enter and View' visit to Hawthorn House on 10th September 2025, where they gathered valuable feedback from service users.

The You Told Us report highlights the experiences, feedback and concerns shared by local people about health and social care services. This report showcases what’s working well, identifies areas for improvement and demonstrates how residents’ voices are helping to shape better care across County Durham.

News Update on health and social care in County Durham and updates on Healthwatch County Durham News for November 2025.

News Update on health and social care in County Durham and updates on Healthwatch County Durham News for October 2025.