CEO's blog: championing patient voices in 2026
Our CEO, Maxine Taffetani, looks ahead to 2026 developments in this month's blog.
Happy New Year. As we step into 2026, I want to share some important updates about how we’re positioning ourselves for the future. Our Board has been working behind the scenes to strengthen the way our organisation is set up.
A new legal name – but the same team, values, and mission
Healthwatch Milton Keynes is now delivered by Engage‑Share‑Inspire MK CIO. This legal name change to our organisation gives us more flexibility as we explore long‑term sustainability when local Healthwatch statutory functions are removed from the current legislation. Nothing will change for our community. You’ll still see the same team, the same Healthwatch Milton Keynes branding, and the same commitment to championing your voice.
Encouraging news on funding
We were pleased to receive confirmation from Health Minister Zubir Ahmed MP that the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has allocated £14.15m to councils for local Healthwatch contracts for 2026–27. This means we are cautiously optimistic that we will continue operating up until April 2027. As soon as we have clarity, we will begin planning what our final operating year will look like and how we can leave a strong legacy for Milton Keynes.
A new Bill is expected to be proposed to Parliament in the coming months that should come with details about the proposals to remove Healthwatch from the landscape and transfer our duties to Integrated Care Boards and Local Authorities.
A new Bill is expected to be proposed to Parliament in the coming months that should come with details about the proposals to remove Healthwatch from the landscape and transfer our duties to Integrated Care Boards and Local Authorities.
NHS waiting lists – progress nationally, but what about locally?
NHS England has reported the second‑largest drop in national waiting lists in 15 years, with numbers falling by more than 86,000 in November, bringing the list to 7.31 million people waiting for planned treatment. This progress comes despite record demand on services, including the busiest year on record for A&E attendances.
While this national picture may show that we're moving in the right direction, we know many of you are still facing waits of over a year, often left in limbo with little support. For many, the statistics don’t reflect the day‑to‑day reality of discomfort and/or pain, and the emotional toll of uncertainty.
We want to understand whether the national improvements match your experience here in MK. Your stories help us challenge, influence, and improve local services.
If you’ve been affected by long waits, please take a moment to share your experience through our Have Your Say form — it’s quick, confidential, and makes a real difference.
