New Healthwatch Wiltshire provider announced

Why are things changing with Healthwatch Wiltshire? 

Healthwatch Wiltshire’s contract with its previous provider, Help and Care, has come to an end after five years. Wiltshire Council went out to competitive tender and organisations were able to bid for the contract.  The Care Forum (TCF) gained the highest score and were awarded the contract, which started on 1 January 2024. 

What will be different? 

TCF will be responsible for delivering the new contract from 1 January.  They have been working with the previous provider, Help and Care, to ensure the transfer process goes smoothly. 

What about volunteers? 

Healthwatch Wiltshire volunteers have been kept informed about arrangements for the contract transferring to TCF, who are keen to continue the great work of the current volunteers while developing new ways to volunteer. 

What’s next for Healthwatch Wiltshire?

Healthwatch Wiltshire will continue to serve the people of Wiltshire although there might be a slight pause while the new organisation sets up policies and processes.  The logo and branding will remain the same and a staff team and volunteers will be in local communities gathering the views and experiences of people who use health and care services.

Kevin Peltonen-Messenger, CEO at The Care Forum, said: 

“For over a decade we have provided robust, innovative and caring Healthwatch services across the South West of England, so I am incredibly proud to announce that following a successful tendering process, TCF will take on the delivery of Healthwatch Wiltshire.

"Our work at System and Place across Wiltshire, Swindon and Bath and North East Somerset Healthwatch will enable us to represent important local issues whilst being able to work even more effectively across a single Integrated Care Board system. We’re really excited to start seeing some of our ideas take root!”

Find out more about The Care Forum on their website.