Healthwatch Round Up - 12 February 2026
Healthwatch Research, Articles & Advice You May Have Missed
As a reminder, please see the latest reports, news, advice and support articles from us and Healthwatch England.
NHS announces conditions for treatment at online hospital
AI in NHS care: what’s the impact, and what do people think?
As the Government attempts to ‘make the NHS the most AI-enabled care system in the world’, the public’s early experiences show it may be causing as many issues as it aims to solve.
People struggle to access weight loss drugs on the NHS
People have told us that weight loss drugs are transformative, but that there are problems accessing them on the NHS, especially since they were made available via GPs last June.
Living With or Affected by Prostate Cancer?
Details from Healthwatch in Greater Manchester
Healthwatch across Greater Manchester want to hear your experiences of prostate cancer services. Your feedback will help to raise awareness and shape better services.
Men's Counselling Service
A new national counselling service for men has launched in Stockport to make therapy easier and more accessible. Men’s Counselling Service has one aim, to make it easier for men to find the right help, sooner.
Men account for three-quarters of suicides in the UK but make up only a third of NHS Talking Therapies referrals. 29% of men in Stockport report anxiety which is higher than the national average.
The service connects men with qualified, accredited therapists who specialise in male mental health, offering both online and in-person sessions. Many therapists provide free initial appointments to help men get started without pressure.
National Cancer Plan for England Announced
Details from Greater Manchester Combined Authority & UK Gov
In 2025, the UK Government launched a nationwide call to help shape a new cancer plan for England. Last week, that plan was announced and published.
The National Cancer Plan sets out a bold, long-term approach to improving cancer outcomes, experience and equity over the next decade. Shaped by lived experience, the plan focuses on earlier diagnosis, improved performance, better quality of life and reducing inequalities.
The ambition is that by 2035, three in four people diagnosed with cancer will be cancer-free, or living well with cancer after five years. Under this plan, the NHS will also meet all 3 cancer waiting time standards, meaning hundreds of thousands more patients will receive timely treatment.
The National Cancer Plan sets out the government’s ambitions on cancer to:
- drive up cancer performance and meet cancer waiting times standards by 2029
- improve cancer survival
- improve quality of life for people being diagnosed with, treated for or living with cancer
Changes to IVF Policy Across Greater Manchester
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
NHS Greater Manchester has agreed to standardise the number of NHS-funded IVF cycles offered across all 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester. This follows extensive feedback across the region.
From 1 April 2026, eligible women aged 39 and under will be offered:
- One full cycle of IVF
- A second attempt only if the first cycle is cancelled or abandoned
This change replaces the current system, where people are offered between one and three IVF cycles depending on where they live.
More Exciting Changes Afoot in Stockport Town Centre
Details from Stockport Council
Bold new plans have been unveiled to transform Mersey Square and the nearby Bear Pit, creating a welcoming public space at the heart of the town centre.
The proposals mark the next milestone as part of the town centre regeneration, reshaping Stockport and reinforcing Mersey Square as a place where residents, visitors and families can meet, relax, walk, play and enjoy events throughout the year.
The redesign aims to:
- Create a beautiful new civic space that feels welcoming
- Improve accessibility with clearer, safer routes for pedestrians and cyclists
- Introduce trees, greenery and new seating to encourage people to spend time in the square
- Provide a flexible, attractive setting for outdoor events, performances and community activities
Funding for the project has come from Transport for Greater Manchester and United Utilities.
Tap the NHS App: National Campaign Launched
Details from NHS England
The NHS App campaign is now live, encouraging people to get the most from features such as requesting repeat prescriptions, turning on notifications, and viewing their GP health record and test results. With almost 40 million registered users, the App offers a simple and secure way for people to manage their care when it suits them.
The campaign runs in England until 15 March and includes radio, social media, national press, outdoor posters and search. Please share this campaign locally and encourage patients to use the NHS App.
Children’s Mental Health Week (9–15 February)
This year’s theme, “This Is My Place,” encourages families to help children explore the spaces, relationships and communities where they feel safe, valued and able to be themselves. A strong sense of belonging supports children’s wellbeing and confidence, and families can get involved through simple activities, conversations and creative projects.
The Childrens Mental Health Week website has free ideas and resources to use at home.
If you’re worried your child is feeling overwhelmed or struggling, having gentle open conversations can make a real difference. Research shows that asking directly about how a young person feels helps them feel supported rather than discouraged. For advice or immediate support:
- PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 (0800 068 4141 / text 07860 039967)
- Healthy Stockport offers local wellbeing support
Learn More About What Your Pharmacy Can do For You
New website pages have been launched to provide information about several NHS services that pharmacies in England are providing.
The website (communitypharmacy.org.uk) provides information on the following three NHS services:
- Pharmacy First Service;
- Blood Pressure Check Service; and
- Pharmacy Contraception Service.
There is a separate page for each of the services providing information about the three services and there are links to the NHS website to find a pharmacy that offers the service. The website also explains that patients have a right to choose which pharmacy they use to receive NHS services.
New Resource From Stockport Support Hub
Message from Stockport Support Hub
You can scan the QR code on the poster or find out more here: www.stockportsupport.com
Stockport Mental Health Services Support Leaflet
The leaflet helps people quickly find the right type of support, whether they prefer online resources, talking to someone, or need urgent help. It also signposts them to support for other concerns such as cost of living, domestic abuse and drugs and alcohol given the impact these can have on mental health and wellbeing.
You can find the new leaflet and poster entitled “worried, stressed or feeling low” on the Healthy Stockport website along with other resources to support wellbeing.
Reminder: Free Lung Checks Are Returning to Stockport
Details from Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance
The NHS will soon be offering free lung health checks to current and former smokers aged 55-74 who are registered with a GP in Bramhall and Cheadle Hulme.
Checks are free and they could save your life by finding lung cancer at an early stage before any symptoms. Most visitors to these checks will get reassurance that everything is OK.
People who are invited will talk to specialist nurse and answer some health and lifestyle questions which will determine whether they are ‘high’ or ‘low’ risk. If you are deemed high risk, you'll be offered a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan of your lungs for further investigation on the same day and be enrolled into the programme.
The checks are available to people registered at the following practices:
Cheadle Hulme Medical Group SK8 6LU
Bramhall Health Centre, SK7 2DY,
Bramhall and Shaw Heath Medical Group SK7 3EP,
Hulme Hall Medical Group SK8 6LU,
The Village Surgery SK7 2DN.
Look out for an invite in the post or via text message.
Received your invitation but missed your appointment? Contact the bookings team on 0161 529 0900.
HAF is Back This Half Term!
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme is running again this half term, making sure eligible children can enjoy fun, active days with a healthy meal included. Activities include everything from skateboarding and quick cricket to building bug hotels and sensory play.
To book a space, browse the list of HAF providers and contact them directly.
While these clubs are primarily available to children eligible for income-based free school meals, some spaces can be offered to children who are classed as ‘otherwise vulnerable’, including some with special educational needs and disabilities.
The Wellspring's Urgent Appeal
Details from The Wellspring
The Wellspring are really struggling for tea towels at the moment and have also completely run out of boxer shorts for the people they continue to support.
These everyday items might seem small, but they make a huge difference to people facing homelessness and help us provide dignity, comfort and basic essentials when they’re needed most.
If you’re able to help, donations can be dropped off at The Wellspring, Harvey Street, Stockport, SK11YD. Opening hours are 8am to 4pm on weekdays and 8am to 2pm on weekends.
If you aren't able to make a drop off, you can also make a donation via the Give Today platform: https://givetoday.co.uk/thewellspring/
Nominations Open for Stockport Rocks!
Details from Sector 3
Stockport’s official Volunteer Awards, Stockport Rocks!, is back for 2026. Get ready to submit your nominations to raise awareness of, and say thanks to, the incredible people in Stockport who go out of their way to help others.
There are 11 categories to choose from including Proper Good Business for businesses who have helped make a difference locally.
Nominations close 16 March.
Nominate your Stockport SEND Superstars!
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council want to celebrate the incredible people, teams and projects making a real difference for children and young people with SEND in Stockport. From teachers and volunteers to creative projects – if someone has helped your child feel valued and included, nominate them today!
Their new award logo, chosen by young people from designs submitted by young people, will feature across the SEND Superstars Award all year. Congratulations to its creator, Louie at Pure College!
Stockport SEND Superstars Award – Nomination Form
Have Your Say: SEND Services in Stockport
Details from Stockport Council
Parents and Carers Together Stockport (PACTS) invite parents and carers of children and young people aged 0–25 with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) to take part in their local SEND survey.
This survey is for families who live in Stockport, or who accessed education, health, or social care services for their child or young person in Stockport during 2025.
Participants who provide their contact details have a chance to win a £25 shopping voucher.
Have Your Say: SAFE PATHS
Details from National Institute for Health & Care Research (NIHR)
The NIHR is conducting a study SAFE PATHS Improving Access and Care for South Asians with Psychosis, exploring the views and experiences of people from South Asian backgrounds about getting help for psychosis and attending ‘talking therapies’.
More information is available via the NIHR website: https://fundingawards.nihr.ac.uk/award/NIHR206951.
See the attached poster.
Preparing for Adulthood Strategy
Details from PACTs
The Preparing for Adulthood Strategy consultation is open until 31 January. The strategy outlines how we’ll support young people with SEND aged 14–25 as they move into adulthood. We want to hear from parents, carers, young people, professionals, and partner organisations to ensure the plan reflects real experiences and delivers positive outcomes.
Easy‑read version: Preparing For Adulthood Strategy
Improving Neonatal Care Services in the North West
Details from Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership
The NHS is reviewing how neonatal care can be improved for babies and families across the North West. This work is being led by NHS England alongside the region’s three Integrated Care Boards: NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, NHS Greater Manchester, and NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria.
Parents, carers and family members who have used neonatal services will also be involved, to share their experiences of what works well and what could be improved.
Feedback will shape the next phase of planning, including the development of future service options.
For more information, contact: england.nw-specialisedbabieschildren@nhs.net or visit the website.
Sahara Memory Cafe
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Become a Member of Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
Details from the Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
Help shape our services! As a member, you'd have an opportunity to shape the future and ensure services are developed to best meet your and your family’s needs. Membership is completely free, and open to anyone over 16 years old.
What would I have to do? Membership doesn’t mean you have to do anything if you don’t want to – we just want your support. You can choose how much you want to be involved; this can range from simply receiving quarterly newsletters to keep you informed of latest news. Or as much as standing for election as a governor during the election process, attending members health events or completing short surveys.
What are the benefits? Membership gives you the opportunity to provide feedback and ideas on the health issues that matter most to you.
In addition, as a Foundation Trust Member you can sign up for discounts at the free to join online discount scheme site www.healthservicediscounts.com, offering discounts, cashback and vouchers across a wide range of retailers.
Join for free: To become a member, complete the online form here
Contact Us: For further information or questions, email: membership@stockport.nhs.uk
Or visit our website: Become a Member - Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
Training: Welcome to Live Well Briefing
Details from Stockport Live Well
Stockport Live Well is all about connecting people in their communities and creating more ways for them to get the help they need where they live. Sessions are delivered locally in neighbourhoods, so choose which venue suits you. More dates coming soon.
Various dates
Workshops: Dementia Community Workshop
Details from Home Instead
Home Instead are running a free Dementia Community Workshop and would love to spread the word to anyone who may find it helpful.
This session is ideal for family carers, community groups and volunteers, and customer-facing teams, offering practical insight and greater confidence when supporting people living with dementia.
Volunteering: Walthew House
For over 140 years, Walthew House has supported people in Stockport living with sight and hearing loss.
They are inviting you to join their Volunteer Recruitment Fair:
19 February, 1pm-3pm
Walthew House, 112 Shaw Heath, Stockport
Careers: Tackling Youth Unemployment in Greater Manchester
Details from Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA)
GMCA, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) have become the first organisations in the city region to back a new national initiative, YouthPath. Working with the Movement to Work charity, our organisations will support young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) with new opportunities to upskill, earn or learn.
This follows the news that 1000 T Level placements have now been pledged by local employers. As part of this, GMFRS has just welcomed its first cohort of T Level students, opening the door to a wide range of careers within our fire and rescue service.
Careers: Stockport WorkWell Drop Ins
Stockport's WorkWell service offers personalised support for people struggling with health conditions to start, return to, or stay in work. The team has supported over 400 people by providing one-to-one guidance, tailored wellbeing support and careers advice to help them move forward with confidence.
Watch the video and find out more
Training & Activities Courses Coming Up
There are a variety of training courses including those from from Skills For Life (SFL) and others. Please see the attachments below:
Answer Cancer
Diabetes UK
For Men to Talk
Greater Manchester Aging Hub
Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue
New Prevention Brochure, Stockport case study and campaigns galore
Greater Manchester Live Well
King's Trust
Upcoming courses from The King's Trust
National Autistic Society
Sector 3
Starting Point
Stockport Council
Information and Advice
For up to date health and social care information, signposting and guidance, call Healthwatch Stockport on
0161 974 0753 10am - 2pm
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
Visit our Information and Signposting directory
Do you have a health or social care experience you want to share – how did your last appointment with your GP or dentist go? Are you happy or frustrated with the service you received – let us know so we can work with local services to influence better commissioners and better outcomes for you and your family.
