Healthwatch MK is to have its funding extended for a further three years from 1 January 2017 following a decision by Cllr Nigel Long, Cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Housing.

The Healthwatch MK website describes its role as giving:

“people a powerful voice, locally and nationally. At a local level, Healthwatch works to make health and care services work for the people who use them, improving them today or helping to shape them for tomorrow.” http://www.healthwatchmiltonkeynes.co.uk/

Milton Keynes Council has supported a change in the way Healthwatch MK is set up. It has become a charity registered with the Charity Commission. This will allow it to be more effective and make even better use of public money it receives.

Cllr Nigel Long said, “I think Healthwatch MK have played an important role locally, they have a good standing and are effective in giving NHS and social care customers a strong independent voice.“

Cllr Nigel Long

Cllr Long added, “Their role will be increasingly important as Milton Keynes faces a huge challenge from the so-called Strategic Transformational Programme (STP) which potentially could put at risk local A&E and maternity services. And could see MK Hospital become a branch of Luton hospital. They also have a key role to play around social care services.”

Cllr Long concluded, “On Tuesday 29 November I will agree to fund Healthwatch MK for a further three years. I will allocate £158,644 pounds per year. This is £475,932 pounds in total. I look forward to continue working with them. I believe this will be money well spent.“