Healthwatch Somerset
@healthwatchsom.bsky.social
Your independant voice in health and social care across Somerset
The People's Vote is your chance to help shape our independent work in #somerset by voting on the health and social care issues that affect you most.
It is quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de... or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
It is quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de... or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
February 4, 2026 at 9:40 AM
The People's Vote is your chance to help shape our independent work in #somerset by voting on the health and social care issues that affect you most.
It is quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de... or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
It is quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de... or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
Today is World Cancer Day - a moment for us all to come together, raise awareness, and show support for everyone affected by cancer. Give us your feedback about your experiences of cancer care in the NHS and social care: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/have-your-say
#WorldCancerDay #UnitedByUnique
#WorldCancerDay #UnitedByUnique
February 4, 2026 at 9:38 AM
Today is World Cancer Day - a moment for us all to come together, raise awareness, and show support for everyone affected by cancer. Give us your feedback about your experiences of cancer care in the NHS and social care: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/have-your-say
#WorldCancerDay #UnitedByUnique
#WorldCancerDay #UnitedByUnique
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
If you have an urgent but not life-threatening health problem, you can contact NHS 111 for support. Knowing what they can help with and how to contact them is essential - check out our article with all the information you need to know about the service. https://bit.ly/4by5o9b
February 3, 2026 at 4:10 PM
If you have an urgent but not life-threatening health problem, you can contact NHS 111 for support. Knowing what they can help with and how to contact them is essential - check out our article with all the information you need to know about the service. https://bit.ly/4by5o9b
NICE is looking for people who have had a hip and/or knee replacement to let them know their views via a survey: online1.snapsurveys.com/Interview/92... by Sunday 8th February 2026.
February 3, 2026 at 10:25 AM
NICE is looking for people who have had a hip and/or knee replacement to let them know their views via a survey: online1.snapsurveys.com/Interview/92... by Sunday 8th February 2026.
Somerset Council are renewing their Adult Social Care strategy.
Residents, unpaid carers & local organisations are being asked to help, as the Council renew their Adult Social Care strategy.
You can have your say: somersetcouncil.citizenspace.com/adult-social...
Residents, unpaid carers & local organisations are being asked to help, as the Council renew their Adult Social Care strategy.
You can have your say: somersetcouncil.citizenspace.com/adult-social...
February 3, 2026 at 10:23 AM
Somerset Council are renewing their Adult Social Care strategy.
Residents, unpaid carers & local organisations are being asked to help, as the Council renew their Adult Social Care strategy.
You can have your say: somersetcouncil.citizenspace.com/adult-social...
Residents, unpaid carers & local organisations are being asked to help, as the Council renew their Adult Social Care strategy.
You can have your say: somersetcouncil.citizenspace.com/adult-social...
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
If you are receiving palliative care, you may feel fatigue, extreme tiredness, weakness or lack of energy which does not go away when you rest or sleep. It's effects can be upsetting, we have a guide on how to manage at sueryder.org/end-of-life-care/living-with-a-terminal-illness/managing-fatigue
February 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM
If you are receiving palliative care, you may feel fatigue, extreme tiredness, weakness or lack of energy which does not go away when you rest or sleep. It's effects can be upsetting, we have a guide on how to manage at sueryder.org/end-of-life-care/living-with-a-terminal-illness/managing-fatigue
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
"We see a lot of children here that can't see a regular dentist that are turning up with abscesses & infections," says Shiv Pabary
Urgent care is vital. But a govt that says the NHS must shift from sickness to prevention must not forget routine care. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9qp2xx3e37o
Urgent care is vital. But a govt that says the NHS must shift from sickness to prevention must not forget routine care. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9qp2xx3e37o
February 1, 2026 at 12:21 PM
"We see a lot of children here that can't see a regular dentist that are turning up with abscesses & infections," says Shiv Pabary
Urgent care is vital. But a govt that says the NHS must shift from sickness to prevention must not forget routine care. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9qp2xx3e37o
Urgent care is vital. But a govt that says the NHS must shift from sickness to prevention must not forget routine care. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9qp2xx3e37o
Hourglass is the only UK-wide charity focused solely on the abuse & neglect of older people. One in six older people are victims of abuse. That’s over 16% of our mothers, fathers, uncles, aunties, grannies, grandads & friends. Call the free 24/7 helpline 0808 8088141 or visit www.wearehourglass.org
January 28, 2026 at 10:07 AM
Hourglass is the only UK-wide charity focused solely on the abuse & neglect of older people. One in six older people are victims of abuse. That’s over 16% of our mothers, fathers, uncles, aunties, grannies, grandads & friends. Call the free 24/7 helpline 0808 8088141 or visit www.wearehourglass.org
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Share your views on your recent NHS or social care experience with us to help make services in your local area better. We have a survey with all the information and questions translated into British Sign Language videos - https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/have-your-say-BSL/
January 28, 2026 at 9:11 AM
Share your views on your recent NHS or social care experience with us to help make services in your local area better. We have a survey with all the information and questions translated into British Sign Language videos - https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/have-your-say-BSL/
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Approach your GP carefully if worrying about #Lyme disease. They know there is a lot of poor info on the internet, so stick to facts and have a look here first www.lymediseaseaction.org.uk/resources/se...
January 26, 2026 at 1:57 PM
Approach your GP carefully if worrying about #Lyme disease. They know there is a lot of poor info on the internet, so stick to facts and have a look here first www.lymediseaseaction.org.uk/resources/se...
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Have your say! 📢
Disabled young people aged 11 – 25 deserve to be heard. Share your experiences in the @DCPcampaign Young People Survey and help make change happen.
Survey 👉 bit.ly/YPSurvey26
Easy Read version here👉 bit.ly/YPSurvey26ER
Disabled young people aged 11 – 25 deserve to be heard. Share your experiences in the @DCPcampaign Young People Survey and help make change happen.
Survey 👉 bit.ly/YPSurvey26
Easy Read version here👉 bit.ly/YPSurvey26ER
DCP & Kids Young Person's Survey 2026
bit.ly
January 26, 2026 at 7:44 PM
Have your say! 📢
Disabled young people aged 11 – 25 deserve to be heard. Share your experiences in the @DCPcampaign Young People Survey and help make change happen.
Survey 👉 bit.ly/YPSurvey26
Easy Read version here👉 bit.ly/YPSurvey26ER
Disabled young people aged 11 – 25 deserve to be heard. Share your experiences in the @DCPcampaign Young People Survey and help make change happen.
Survey 👉 bit.ly/YPSurvey26
Easy Read version here👉 bit.ly/YPSurvey26ER
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
NHS to increase accuracy of bowel cancer test in England
NHS to increase accuracy of bowel cancer test in England
Increased sensitivity of test that detects the second deadliest cancer will save hundreds of lives, oncologists say
The main test for the UK’s second deadliest cancer is being made more accurate in England, in a move NHS bosses believe will save hundreds of lives.
The sensitivity of the faecal immunochemical test (Fit), which detects bowel cancer by spotting blood in the patient’s stool, will be increased as part of an overhaul of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Continue reading...
www.theguardian.com
January 26, 2026 at 12:12 AM
NHS to increase accuracy of bowel cancer test in England
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Most GP appointments are just 10 minutes long. That doesn't give you much time to explain your symptoms, get a diagnosis, discuss treatment and get your questions answered. Check out our tips for getting the most out of your appointment - https://bit.ly/3NqsR25
January 26, 2026 at 9:41 AM
Most GP appointments are just 10 minutes long. That doesn't give you much time to explain your symptoms, get a diagnosis, discuss treatment and get your questions answered. Check out our tips for getting the most out of your appointment - https://bit.ly/3NqsR25
The People's Vote in #somerset is now open for 2026.
It's your chance to help focus our independent work based on your feedback.
It is quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de..., or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
It's your chance to help focus our independent work based on your feedback.
It is quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de..., or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
Help decide our health and care priorities for 2026–27
Every year, Healthwatch Somerset creates a work plan for the next 12 months. This plan is shaped by what local people tell us about health and care services in Somerset.The People’s Vote gives you the...
www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk
January 21, 2026 at 10:24 AM
The People's Vote in #somerset is now open for 2026.
It's your chance to help focus our independent work based on your feedback.
It is quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de..., or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
It's your chance to help focus our independent work based on your feedback.
It is quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website: www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de..., or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
The #NHS healthy choices quiz will give you advice and links to NHS apps to help you see how to make changes where they matter most. The quiz only takes 5 minutes, but can help you make a lasting change this January. Check out your score today - https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/healthy-choices-quiz/
January 21, 2026 at 9:37 AM
The #NHS healthy choices quiz will give you advice and links to NHS apps to help you see how to make changes where they matter most. The quiz only takes 5 minutes, but can help you make a lasting change this January. Check out your score today - https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/healthy-choices-quiz/
Somerset Maternity are preparing to reopen the Special Care Baby Unit and inpatient maternity services at Yeovil District Hospital at midday on Tuesday 21 April 2026.
Find out more on their website: www.somersetft.nhs.uk?news=reopeni...
#Somerset #maternity #specialcarebabyunit
Find out more on their website: www.somersetft.nhs.uk?news=reopeni...
#Somerset #maternity #specialcarebabyunit
January 20, 2026 at 10:43 AM
Somerset Maternity are preparing to reopen the Special Care Baby Unit and inpatient maternity services at Yeovil District Hospital at midday on Tuesday 21 April 2026.
Find out more on their website: www.somersetft.nhs.uk?news=reopeni...
#Somerset #maternity #specialcarebabyunit
Find out more on their website: www.somersetft.nhs.uk?news=reopeni...
#Somerset #maternity #specialcarebabyunit
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Today is #BlueMonday and if you're feeling low - you're not alone. Check out our advice articles for small, meaningful ways you can support your own mental wellbeing. https://bit.ly/3hcjmUi #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfCareMatters #YouAreNotAlone #Wellbeing2026
January 19, 2026 at 10:28 AM
Today is #BlueMonday and if you're feeling low - you're not alone. Check out our advice articles for small, meaningful ways you can support your own mental wellbeing. https://bit.ly/3hcjmUi #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfCareMatters #YouAreNotAlone #Wellbeing2026
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Many people provide unpaid care to family or friends and are unaware of their rights. If you're an unpaid carer, find out what help and advice is out there to support you - https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/advice-and-information/2025-10-02/what-support-can-i-get-carer
January 13, 2026 at 4:49 PM
Many people provide unpaid care to family or friends and are unaware of their rights. If you're an unpaid carer, find out what help and advice is out there to support you - https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/advice-and-information/2025-10-02/what-support-can-i-get-carer
Your pharmacist can provide treatment or some #prescription medicine, if needed, for seven common conditions - without you seeing a GP.
Think #pharmacy first and get seen by your local community pharmacy team. Please note age restrictions below.
Think #pharmacy first and get seen by your local community pharmacy team. Please note age restrictions below.
January 13, 2026 at 9:54 AM
Your pharmacist can provide treatment or some #prescription medicine, if needed, for seven common conditions - without you seeing a GP.
Think #pharmacy first and get seen by your local community pharmacy team. Please note age restrictions below.
Think #pharmacy first and get seen by your local community pharmacy team. Please note age restrictions below.
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Have you heard of Cold Weather Payments?
If you’re eligible, you’ll get £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2025 and 31 March 2026.
Head to our website to find out more: www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/living-with/...
If you’re eligible, you’ll get £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2025 and 31 March 2026.
Head to our website to find out more: www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/living-with/...
January 12, 2026 at 2:46 PM
Have you heard of Cold Weather Payments?
If you’re eligible, you’ll get £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2025 and 31 March 2026.
Head to our website to find out more: www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/living-with/...
If you’re eligible, you’ll get £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2025 and 31 March 2026.
Head to our website to find out more: www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/living-with/...
It's back! The People's Vote in #Somerset is now open for 2026. It's your chance to help focus our independent work based on your feedback. It's quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website (link below), or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de...
www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de...
Help decide our health and care priorities for 2026–27
Every year, Healthwatch Somerset creates a work plan for the next 12 months. This plan is shaped by what local people tell us about health and care services in Somerset.The People’s Vote gives you the...
www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk
January 9, 2026 at 2:27 PM
It's back! The People's Vote in #Somerset is now open for 2026. It's your chance to help focus our independent work based on your feedback. It's quick and easy to vote. All the details are on our website (link below), or call us free on 0800 999 1286.
www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de...
www.healthwatchsomerset.co.uk/post/help-de...
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Did you know, Pharmacists can offer advice and treatments for a range of conditions - just like having a prescription from your GP?
Here's a few things they can help with:
- UTI's
- Shinges
- Impetigo
- Sore throats
- Sinusitis
- Infected insect bites
- Earache
#HereToHelp
Here's a few things they can help with:
- UTI's
- Shinges
- Impetigo
- Sore throats
- Sinusitis
- Infected insect bites
- Earache
#HereToHelp
January 7, 2026 at 2:54 PM
Did you know, Pharmacists can offer advice and treatments for a range of conditions - just like having a prescription from your GP?
Here's a few things they can help with:
- UTI's
- Shinges
- Impetigo
- Sore throats
- Sinusitis
- Infected insect bites
- Earache
#HereToHelp
Here's a few things they can help with:
- UTI's
- Shinges
- Impetigo
- Sore throats
- Sinusitis
- Infected insect bites
- Earache
#HereToHelp
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Got a question about your Council Tax?
Our helpful guidance can help you figure out if you’re entitled to any discounts and see what help is available. https://go.carersuk.org/44YBVkx?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign&utm_content=ap_70rlqrhekp
Our helpful guidance can help you figure out if you’re entitled to any discounts and see what help is available. https://go.carersuk.org/44YBVkx?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign&utm_content=ap_70rlqrhekp
January 7, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Got a question about your Council Tax?
Our helpful guidance can help you figure out if you’re entitled to any discounts and see what help is available. https://go.carersuk.org/44YBVkx?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign&utm_content=ap_70rlqrhekp
Our helpful guidance can help you figure out if you’re entitled to any discounts and see what help is available. https://go.carersuk.org/44YBVkx?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign&utm_content=ap_70rlqrhekp
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
Navigating the world of health and social care services can be daunting. We want to help you get the care you need, with helpful, straightforward advice. Check out our articles - https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/advice-and-information
January 8, 2026 at 9:46 AM
Navigating the world of health and social care services can be daunting. We want to help you get the care you need, with helpful, straightforward advice. Check out our articles - https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/advice-and-information
Reposted by Healthwatch Somerset
As we enter 2026, if you're not sure what to expect from healthcare services - your local Healthwatch team is here to help. Chat to your friendly local team today for straightforward advice and information. https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/your-local-healthwatch/list
January 6, 2026 at 9:52 AM
As we enter 2026, if you're not sure what to expect from healthcare services - your local Healthwatch team is here to help. Chat to your friendly local team today for straightforward advice and information. https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/your-local-healthwatch/list