Annual Report 2023/24

Healthwatch Haringey report on its key achievements for 2023/24.  It:

• Influenced improvements at the Wood Green Community Diagnostic Centre by gathering feedback from Turkish, Black Caribbean and Polish communities. This led to collaboration with voluntary sector organisations, improved outreach plans, and work to develop tailored communications for underrepresented communities. 
• Led a major project on vaping among young people, gathering evidence from 358 survey responses, focus groups and interviews. The findings informed Haringey Public Health’s work, contributed to plans for school-based interventions, and helped secure a commitment to tackle illicit vape sales to children. 
• Improved access to GP registration for migrants and people experiencing homelessness by co-producing multilingual information materials and distributing 7,300 leaflets and 67 posters across Haringey. The campaign promoted registration rights and access to primary care. 
• Raised awareness of inequalities experienced by people living with sickle cell disorder, highlighting issues including stigma, discrimination, difficulties accessing benefits and poor experiences of care. The research increased awareness among partners and contributed evidence to support future service improvements. 
• Contributed local evidence to Healthwatch England’s national review of the Pharmacy First scheme, highlighting both benefits and implementation challenges and supporting calls for better public awareness of pharmacy services.
• Delivered the Healthy Hearts programme and blood pressure checks in underserved communities, helping residents understand cardiovascular risks, access health information and connect with relevant services.
• Strengthened public involvement in health and care decision-making across North Central London through recruitment to the Community Partnerships Forum, engagement on maternity and children's services proposals, and work to improve understanding of the Physician Associate role.