Latest insights - April to June 2026

Healthwatch Gateshead’s Insight Report for April to June 2026 summarised feedback from 1,810 people gathered through 70 engagement sessions across 33 locations. The most common topics raised were GP access, dentistry, navigating health services, hospital experiences, social prescribing, community support and social isolation.

A key focus during the quarter was a report on Autism and ADHD post-diagnostic support. Healthwatch found that receiving a diagnosis did not always lead to meaningful or consistent support, particularly for younger and older adults. The findings were shared with the Gateshead Health and Wellbeing Board and discussed by the Gateshead Autism Strategic Partnership, attracting wider public attention through local media coverage. 

Healthwatch also continued a programme of research and engagement projects covering physiotherapy, hospitals and urgent care choices, Youthwatch workshops and patient transport. Work on safeguarding had concluded, with responsibility transferring to Gateshead Council. These projects are intended to inform local service improvement and influence decision-makers across health and care services. 

The report also highlighted ongoing Enter and View activity, building on a previous focus on residential care. Healthwatch revisited care homes to assess progress against earlier recommendations, including follow-up work at Appletree Grange Care Home and St Mark’s Court Care Home. The overall message was that Healthwatch Gateshead continues to use local people’s experiences to identify priorities, influence service development and monitor whether improvements are being made.