News and reports

A telephone mystery shop of Hertfordshire’s Adult Referral Hub has found a professional, friendly service, although some improvements are needed to make it easier to speak to the right person or service.

Hertfordshire adults generally have good access to local sexual health services, but have told us they want more information about infections, prevention and testing, as well as clinics in more discreet locations and additional online services.

Healthwatch Hertfordshire has been shortlisted for a national award for its Cost of Living research, which has led to local mental health services teaming up with money advice specialists to help those struggling both financially and emotionally.

Following the tragic events at the Countess of Chester hospital, people using health services across Hertfordshire needed to know how similar incidents would be prevented, identified and dealt with.

As a direct result of our Cost of Living research, local mental health services have teamed up with Hertfordshire County Council’s Money Advice Unit to provide help for those struggling financially and emotionally.

It can be difficult to know who to contact and what to do if you are unwell or struggling at this time of year. Here you’ll find a list of services that can help and when best to contact them.

Women have told us they would like GPs to be better trained so they are more empathetic, listen to what women are saying and not dismiss their concerns when they ask for help with the menopause or perimenopause.

On 24th November, we held our latest Community Assembly. If you weren’t able to join us, this article summarises some of the key discussions and provides information about how to get involved next time.

We listened to what people with learning disabilities told us about how doctors’ surgeries helped them stay healthy and well and came up with some ideas to make things better in Hertfordshire.

Many people think we only help with issues relating to health, but if you have concerns about Social Care services and need assistance or advice, we are here for you.

Read more about our November 2023 meeting in public. This time our Board members will be discussing our latest contract monitoring submission and planning their Board meetings for the year ahead.

Autism Health Checks are being piloted in Hertfordshire and our latest research shows strong support to extend the programme County-wide, improving healthcare for those who may find it challenging to access GPs.