Healthwatch Round Up - 19 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.
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.
NHS Greater Manchester’s New Operating Model
Details from Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership
NHS Greater Manchester is evolving how they work together. They want to deliver the ambitions of the NHS 10 Year Plan and build a healthier, more sustainable future for Greater Manchester. Their new operating model outlines how they will do this.
The 10 year health plan focuses on three strategic shifts:
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Treatment to prevention: keeping people well, not jus treating illness
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Hospital to community: moving care closer to home through joined – up services
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Analogue to digital: using technology and data to make healthcare smarter and faster
During October and November 2025/26, they asked colleagues and stakeholders to share their views and feedback on the draft operating model for NHS GM. The draft operating model outlined how they hope to deliver the Plan as a strategic commissioner. This is available to read in their feedback report.
This feedback has helped shape the final operating model. It will be implemented from 1 April 2026 onwards and sets out how NHS GM will function as a strategic commissioner.
Visit the ‘Our Plans and Reports’ page for more information.
Norovirus Outbreak – Restrictions on Visiting Stepping Hill
Details from Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
The hospital has been experiencing a very high number of cases of Norovirus on their hospital wards. Because of the increasing risk to vulnerable patients, and pressures on our services, they've put visiting restrictions in place.
This means suspending all visiting to patients, with limited exceptions including those at the end of their life, with learning disabilities or dementia. This restriction takes place with immediate effect, and the decision will be reviewed on Friday 20 February.
Patients whose wellbeing will be adversely affected by these restrictions, such as patients with dementia, neurodiverse conditions or learning disabilities, may still have visitors, but please contact the ward staff to discuss in advance.
To protect everyone in their care, additional measures are in place across the hospital, including:
- Additional cleaning in any affected areas.
- Raised awareness to identify patients with these infections as early as possible.
- Raised awareness for staff and visitors regarding the importance of hand hygiene.
- Additional laboratory tests to identify affected patients as early as possible.
Thank you for your continued patience and support.
Reminder: 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
Stay Protected This Winter
Details from NHS
If you're pregnant, the flu vaccine will help protect you and your baby this Winter. It's safe at any stage of your pregnancy. You can get your vaccine from Stepping Hill midwives at the free drop-in clinics across the borough.
If you have any questions or want to make an appointment, email maternity.vaccines@stockport.nhs.uk.
You can find out more about the flu vaccine in pregnancy on the NHS website.
Find a clinic: What's on in Stockport (page 1 of 4) - Stockport Council
Reminder: 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.
Calling Stockport Men! Book Your AAA Screening
To find out more about AAA screening, the team here at Healthwatch Stockport produced a handy screening fact sheet last year to help you find the information you need.
AAA screening fact sheet and advice
National Childhood Type 1 Screening Could Prevent Thousands of Emergency Diagnoses
Details from Diabetes UK
Their landmark ELSA study (Early Surveillance for Autoimmune diabetes) has shown that childhood screening for type 1 diabetes works.
The findings from ELSA's first phase show a major step towards a future in which type 1 diabetes can be detected early, managed proactively, and potentially delayed through immunotherapy.
For too many families, a child’s type 1 diabetes diagnosis happens in a sudden, frightening way. Over a quarter of children aren’t diagnosed until they are in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a potentially fatal condition that requires urgent hospital treatment.
Spotting type 1 diabetes early – before too many insulin-making cells have been destroyed or symptoms have developed – can dramatically reduce emergency diagnoses.
Building on this, Diabetes UK have launched the next phase of ELSA - expanding screening to include all children aged 2 to 17 years.
Diabetes and Ramadan
Details from Diabetes UK
Ramadan in 2026 will run from on or around 17 February for 29 or 30 days, ending with Eid al-Fitr, a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide.
Diabetes UK's Diabetes and Ramadan webpage is filled with information and resources for people living with diabetes who are thinking about fasting for Ramadan. This includes a factsheet about diabetes and Ramadan, developed in partnership with the British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA) and is available to order and download in multiple languages.
Holiday Support for Parents
Details from Stockport Council
Need a little extra support during the holidays? Whether you're parenting a baby, a teen, or a child with SEND, there’s free online help available for you anytime, anywhere:
- Family Hubs app: Your go-to library of videos, tips, and resources - from potty training to teenage behaviour.
- SEND Stockport Local Offer: For all questions about support for children and young people with SEND, from EHCPs and school admissions to preparing for adulthood
- Togetherness online courses offer step-by-step learning designed to boost confidence, emotional wellbeing, and resilience for parents and children.
- Live Well directory: Discover local services, support groups, and things to do in your community.
- What’s On in Stockport: Find family-friendly events and activities happening near you.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Try the Family Hubs online enquiry form.
Funding: The 'Empower Her' Fund is Now Open
Details from Sector 3
Do you have a daughter, niece, granddaughter who plays football, or are you involved in girls’ football in Greater Manchester? Funding is available to help more women and girls from underrepresented communities get involved in the game.
Apply for £250–£2,500 per project to support activity that creates safe, welcoming and confidence‑building spaces for women and girls to play.
The first funding deadline is 5pm, Friday 20 March
Check out the funding guidance, and to apply for funding complete the online form.
Mani Tribute Art Raises Thousands for Stockport NHS Charity
Details from Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
Manchester music legend Mani is still raising thousands of pounds for one of his favourite charities following his tragic passing last year, and it’s thanks to a tribute from an artist.
Following the loss of Mani in November last year artist Mark Reynolds, who trades online as ‘Stuff by Mark’, decided to draw a tribute, showing the legendary bassist in action.
Mark was contacted by fans of the Stone Roses and Primal Scream musician, asking for prints. Mark decided he would sell them with all proceeds to benefit one of Mani’s favourite causes, Stockport NHS Charity.
Mark made the donation of sales from the print to the charity, an amazing total of £11,292.
Both Mani and his late wife Imelda, who passed away in 2023, were major supporters of the charity, giving thanks for the care she received at Stepping Hill Hospital during her treatment for cancer.
The donation will be used to enhance the environment and care for future patients at Stepping Hill Hospital and community NHS services in Stockport.
Stockport Retains Purple Flag Accreditation for Evening and Night time Economy
Details from Stockport Council
Purple Flag aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm and 5am.
This prestigious award highlights Stockport’s strong blend of entertainment, dining and culture, while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors throughout the evening. Retaining Purple Flag status further reinforces Stockport’s growing reputation as a fantastic destination after dark.
Purple Flag accredited areas typically experience increased footfall and reduced crime levels within their evening and night-time economy.
Supported Housing for People With Learning Disabilities
Details from Stockport Council
Work has started on a new supported housing development in Bredbury that will provide homes for people with learning disabilities.
The scheme, being delivered by MSV Housing Group, will offer 12 purpose-built, energy‑efficient homes on the disused former Bredbury Civic Hall site.
The homes will comprise four self-contained apartments, with on-site staff available 24 hours a day in their own quarters to provide support tailored to each resident’s needs. The ground floor will include a range of fully accessible, shared facilities, including: a communal lounge; a kitchen and dining area; communal shower facilities; a dedicated laundry room; a staff office and a sleep-in room.
These spaces are designed to help residents socialise, learn new skills and live more independently.
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.
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
Stepping Hill Embraces Exercise as a Key tool in Patient Recovery With Help From Life Leisure
Details from Life Leisure
Life Leisure is building on its Active Hospital work to help patients move more, feel better and take their next step into community wellbeing.
As part of the ongoing Active Hospital initiative, Life Leisure has partnered with Stepping Hill Hospital. Lisa Arrandale is heading up the Active Hospital work on behalf of Life Leisure, working closely alongside Jan Sinclair, the hospital’s lead for the Active Hospital project. Together, they aim to make engaging in physical activity feel achievable rather than forced, while providing supportive pathways to long-term wellbeing.
A key part of this early work has been the introduction of Active Hospital kit bags, which are now being provided on wards at Stepping Hill. Each kit currently includes a pedal exerciser, resistance band and pedometer as well as practical exercise ideas. They are designed to help patients move safely and confidently during their hospital stay..
By increasing awareness of the pathway among hospital staff, Life Leisure wants to make it easier for patients and colleagues to move from ward-based sessions into community classes, often with the same providers they’ve already connected with in hospital.
Life Leisure will continue to develop its role within the hospital, building relationships, listening to feedback and shaping support that works for both patients and staff.
To find out more about Active Pathways, visit: https://www.lifeleisure.net/active-pathways/
Read the full press release attached.
Not Sure Where to Start With SEND Support?
Details from Stockport Council
SEND Stockport Local Offer: For all questions about support for children and young people with SEND, from EHCPs and school admissions to support services including health and therapies. It also includes a Jargon Buster, the SEND and ND events calendar for leisure activities as well as support and a directory of SEND services providers.
Holiday Support for Parents
Details from Stockport Council
Need a little extra support during the holidays? Whether you're parenting a baby, a teen, or a child with SEND, there’s free online help available for you anytime, anywhere:
- Family Hubs app: Your go-to library of videos, tips, and resources - from potty training to teenage behaviour.
- SEND Stockport Local Offer: For all questions about support for children and young people with SEND, from EHCPs and school admissions to preparing for adulthood
- Togetherness online courses offer step-by-step learning designed to boost confidence, emotional wellbeing, and resilience for parents and children.
- Live Well directory: Discover local services, support groups, and things to do in your community.
- What’s On in Stockport: Find family-friendly events and activities happening near you.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Try the Family Hubs online enquiry form.
Have Your Say: Experiences of the NHS
Details from the Patients Association
The Patients Association works directly with patients to inform our recommendations that influence health and care policy, hold decision-makers to account, and improve how services partner with patients. Therefore they're asking patients to share their experiences of the NHS.
They want to hear about patients’ experiences with NHS services over the last six months: what’s working well, what isn’t, and what needs to change.
These responses will be used in a report to support their campaigning and advocacy work and to make the strongest case to government, the NHS, and policymakers for improvements patients need and deserve.
More information can be found at: www.patients-association.org.uk/share-your-experience-in-our-patient-experience-survey
Have Your Say: Family Hubs App
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council want your feedback on the Family Hubs App – and you could win a £20n voucher for getting involved!
Since launching the One Stockport Family Hubs app in May 2025, they've been working to make it even better, adding local updates and notifications. Your experience matters - so they'd love to hear from families who’ve downloaded the app.
You’ll be entered into a prize draw for a £20 shopping voucher!
Get Involved: Take Part in the First GM Live Well Assembly
Greater Manchester Live Well are excited to invite anyone who is a part of the Live Well movement to apply to take part in their first ever GM Live Well Assembly.
The GM Live Well Assembly will run from 23 - 26 March, welcoming 30 randomly selected participants to:
- Explore how to shift decision-making and resources closer to our local communities and what this means in practice for how Live Well is governed.
- Hear from expert witnesses who will help inspire new ideas
- Develop a set of recommendations for how the GM Alliance should take shape
The Assembly will have 25 places for community leaders who may be in grassroots organising, social justice, equalities work, mutual aid, or the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector.
They'd love you to consider applying if you:
- Are connected to, or involved in, a community of place or identity in Greater Manchester
- Have experience of growing community capacity, voice, or power
- Want to help shape how communities influence decisions that affect them
- Are available to attend the Assembly dates, including the pre-meeting
To create stronger connections, the Assembly will also include three places for members of the GM Live Well Board, and five places for people within a Greater Manchester council or infrastructure organisation.
The application process is short and involves providing contact details and demographic questions.
The Assembly will take place in person over three days: 23 March – 25 March, 9:30am–4:30pm, at the Mechanics Institute in Manchester.
People in an unpaid role will be remunerated at £150 per day (£450 inclusive) plus expenses for their time. Voluntary sector organisations who apply for a staff member to attend will be paid £200 for taking part plus expenses to cover capacity.
Next steps and key dates
Applications close: 28 February 2026
Online information sessions: 5 February at 5:30pm and 11 February at 12:30pm
Assembly pre meet (online): 18 March at 12:30pm
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.
2026 LGBTQ+ History Month Celebration
Join the first SEND Connections Session: Sign-up This Week!
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council are excited to launch SEND Connections - a new space for professionals working with young people and families with SEND, or anyone interested in co-production. Join them on:
Tuesday 24 February, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
Stockroom, Merseyway, Stockport SK1 1PW.
Please book your free place by 10am, Friday 20 February.
Dementia Music Cafe
Stockport Drug and Alcohol Service
They will be holding an 'Open Access to Treatment Day' to support for those aged 18+ years.
Wednesday 25 February 10am-2pm
Cirtek House Unit 1, Higher Hillgate, Stockport, SK1 3QD
For further help and information, call 0161 716 4000
Picnic in the Park
SPARC Exploring Emotions Group
SPARC Creative Writing Group
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.
Membership gives you the opportunity to feed back on the health issues that matter most to you.
In addition, as a Foundation Trust Member you can sign up at www.healthservicediscounts.com, offering discounts, cashback and vouchers across a range of retailers.
Join for free: To become a member, complete the online form here
For further information or questions, email: membership@stockport.nhs.uk
Or visit: Become a Member - Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
Workshops: Eating Disorder Sessions for Parents and Carers
Details from Living Well Stockport
Caring for a loved one with an eating disorder can be exhausting, distressing and disorientating. Many carers feel they are drowning, they have tried everything and don’t know where to turn next.
The Charlie Waller Trust offers online workshops to parents and carers based on the New Maudsley Approach, which recognises that family/carers are in a unique position to support their loved one to tackle the eating disorder.
The aim is to lower anxiety and distress in family members and to give carers communication tools, skills and techniques that help them to help their loved one to improve their self-esteem and develop the resilience to embark on change.
The courses are broken down into five, two-hour online workshops and are full of practical tips, real life scenarios and case studies.
Course Dates:
- Wednesday 4 March - 9:30 - 11:30
- Wednesday 11 March - 9:30 - 11:30
- Wednesday 18 March - 9:30 - 11:30
- Wednesday 25 March - 9:30 - 11:30
- Wednesday 22 April - 9:30 - 11:30
This is a series and ideally participants should attend all five sessions. To book on to this course, please email Gemma Howard at gemma.howard@charliewaller.org and quote GH027 in the subject line.
For more information, visit Eating disorder workshops for parents and carers
Workshops: Makaton Level 4
Details from Stockport SEND
The Makaton Level 4 Workshop is designed to advance your skills in using signs and symbols, building on the knowledge gained in Levels 1, 2 and 3.
This workshop is ideal for family members, carers and practitioners who already use Makaton at home or in their work and have completed Levels 1–3. It is also an essential step toward entry for Makaton Tutor Training.
18 March 2026, from 9.25am–2.30pm
1st Floor, 1WR, 1 Wellington Road North, Stockport, SK4 1AF.
To request a place, email CTStraining@stockport.nhs.uk
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.
Courses: Digital Sessions for Parents
Courses: Expecting Your First Baby?
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.
