The NHS Modernisation Bill: what's changing?
What’s changing
The Government has introduced the NHS Modernisation Bill, which proposes a major shift in how people’s experiences of health and social care are gathered and acted on.
If the Bill becomes law:
- Our Healthwatch functions would be taken over by NHS Integrated Care Boards and local councils.
- Healthwatch England would move into the Department of Health and Social Care.
- The current independent Healthwatch model would come to an end.
These changes are not yet in force. The Bill must still pass through Parliament, and no implementation timetable has been announced.
What this means for you
We are still your independent, local champion for health and social care. Until the law changes, we will continue to:
- Listen to your experiences of NHS and social care services.
- Provide free, confidential information and advice to help you navigate support.
- Speak up on your behalf, making sure decision‑makers understand what is working and what needs to improve.
Your feedback continues to shape services. Your voice still matters.
What this means for the organisations we work with
We continue to operate exactly as we do today.
We will keep:
- Sharing evidence and insight from local people.
- Working with you to improve services.
- Providing independent scrutiny and challenge where needed.
Our statutory duties remain in place until any new law takes effect.
What happens next
We will update you as soon as the Government confirms:
- When the Bill will be debated and passed.
- When the new arrangements will begin.
- When we will be closing our doors for good.
Until then, we remain fully operational and focused on ensuring local people are heard.
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