Healthwatch Cambridgeshire, who work with inspectors to get over patients’ views at hospital and care home inspections, have received a national award.
Out of more than 150 applicants, they were recognised in the making a difference with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) category at the Healthwatch national annual conference.
The CQC checks whether hospitals, care homes, GPs and dentists are meeting national standards.
Fiona Allinson, head of hospital inspection at the CQC, said: “Healthwatch Cambridgeshire have been very supportive of hospital inspections in their area.
“They have engaged with CQC inspectors and highlighted concerns raised with them about services from the local NHS Hospitals.”
Anna Bradley, chairman of Healthwatch England, said: “The work they have done with the CQC, ensuring the experiences of people using hospital services influences inspection and are at the heart of improvements, is a shining example of how involving and informing people in discussions about health and social care can really make a sustainable impact and bring about long-term change to services.”
Sandie Smith, chief executive of Healthwatch Cambridgeshire, said: “We are honoured that our team has been given this award, it is gratifying to be recognised for our work.”
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