News and reports

We are proud to share with you the Healthwatch Darlington Annual Report 2024–2025, a testament to the exceptional work our small but mighty team has delivered over the past year!

This year’s report is called “Unlocking the Power of People-Driven Care”, and that’s exactly what we’ve done.

We are deeply saddened and disappointed by the government’s recent decision to close Healthwatch England and transfer the responsibilities of local Healthwatch (such as Healthwatch Darlington) to NHS Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and local authorities.

We will not know the full implications of the government’s proposals until we see the details within the NHS 10 year plan, the Penny Dash Review into Patient Safety and ultimately the legislation has been agreed and published by parliament.

Darlington College have 2 courses coming up - CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) Preparation and Level 1 Business Admin - beginning in July.

Latest insight from Healthwatch shows that people on lower incomes find it harder to access NHS services than people who are financially more comfortable.

Healthwatch Darlington are delighted to announce the next meeting of the mental health network will be on Tuesday 5 August, 10am to 12noon at the Tandem Hub at Morton Park in Darlington.

Mental Health Matters employment support in partnership with Talking Therapies have room for new referrals. 

The Bread and Butter Thing (TBBT) would like to let you know about their service available right across Darlington and how you can sign up for free.

We’re delighted to be supporting Cervical Screening Awareness Week this year. Cervical Screening Awareness Week aims to shine a light on changes to the cervical screening programme.

More new apprenticeship vacancies. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to speak to Learning and Skills or the employers directly.

People who have a sensory impairment or a learning disability continue to face difficulty communicating with services, new analysis has found. 

This week is Men's Health Week - focusing on the need for a men's (and women's) health strategy within the NHS.

Durham County Carers Support are incredibly proud to offer a free Counselling Service to Carers who need emotional support as they navigate the challenges of their caring role. This service has become a vital lifeline for many — offering a safe, confidential space for Carers to talk, reflect, and strengthen their resilience.