We mark our 7th birthday with public's list of health priorities

We were set up in 2013 as part of the Health and Social Care Act 2012 to understand the needs, experiences and concerns of people who use health and social care services and to speak out on their behalf.

In the last year, we have visited all corners of the county and collected more than 1,400 comments about health and social care services. And our 40-strong army of volunteers have taken part in more than 240 activities, giving more than 1,750 hours of their time to gather the feedback of local people.

For 2020/21, our focus will be on:

• Mental health
• Learning disabilities and autism
• Primary Care 

Healthwatch Wiltshire Manager, Stacey Sims said:

"Our work for the year ahead is driven by what people have told us is important to them. There are lots of changes expected within the health and care system over the next few years and we want to make sure that the public plays a key role in helping to shape them. 

"Mental health remains high on everyone's agenda, and we'll be looking to local people for their views on how services can be redesigned. 

"We'll also be focusing on services for people with learning disabilities and autism and ensuring that service users and their families have a say in how these services develop. 

"And as GP surgeries establish themselves as Primary Care Networks, we'll be looking at how well they work together, and with other services such as hospitals and pharmacies.

"But while these will be our priorities, we're keen to hear about any health or care issue that matters to you. Please get in touch to have your say."