iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 10h

"Manager's Reflection: Mental Health and The Importance of Listening" Mental health problems are not always easy to see, but they can cause real pain. Everyone’s experience is different, so there is no one way to recover.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 13h

As a Governor for the University Hospital Tees (UHT), Natasha was delighted to attend the UHT Annual General Meeting and Annual Members Meeting yesterday at Teesside University. The event provided an opportunity for Governors and members of the public to reflect on the achievements, challenges...

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Do you have a health or care concern or query? We are here for you. We can give you information and signpost you to health, care and community services in Stockton-on-Tees, plus you can tell us what you think about local services too.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

Have your say on how health and care data is used. NHS North East and North Cumbria is inviting people to share their views on Secure Data Environments, which help keep patient information safe while supporting research and improving services.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

As part of the drop-in yesterday at the Stockton Wellbeing Hub, Janet spent time with @teessideuni.bsky.social Master of Public Health student Irtiza Aslam. It was also great to catch up with Stockton Wellbeing Hub Manager, Sarah Jones & meet members of the public to tell them about what we do.

000

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

This Stoptober, Healthwatch has got your back. Quitting smoking is not an easy challenge and can feel like an impossible mountain to climb. But you don’t have to face it alone. The NHS has lots of advice and information, and you can even join a support group.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Come along to the friendly One Call Stockton drop-in session tomorrow. Find out about the support, advice and services available through One Call Stockton. Meet the team and discover helpful resources for local residents. Where: Stockton Central Library Date: Thursday 1 Oct Time: 10.30am - 12pm

101

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

Martha’s Rule is to be expanded to A&Es across England. Patients, loved ones and NHS staff will be able to call a dedicated number to request an urgent review if a patient’s condition is getting worse and they’re concerned it’s not being listened to. Find out more: bit.ly/3TSndsZ

000

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

Janet from our engagement team will be at the Stockton Wellbeing Hub this Wednesday (tomorrow) where you can drop-in and speak about your health and care queries in confidence. Date: Wednesday 30 Sept Time: 11.30am - 3pm Location: Stockton Wellbeing Hub, Wellington Square

111

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

A new Death Cafe is starting this week. A safe space for open conversation about life and death. Come and join us for tea, cakes, and conversation in a supportive environment. Where: Stockton Central Library Date: Wednesday 30 Sept (and every third Wednesday of the month) Time: 10am - 11.30am

100

Reposted by Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees

Teeswide Safeguarding Adults Board @tsab75.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

If you are worried about an adult experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect, find ways to report abuse here - www.tsab.org.uk/report-abuse/ See Something, Say Something #Spotlight #SafeguardingAdults

001

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

If you have any concerns at all about a child being at risk of harm, or an adult at risk of abuse, @tsab75.bsky.social has advice and information below about who to contact. #safeguarding #stocktonontees

000

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Janet and Lynn from our engagement team were able to chat to other Stockton-based organisations today at the Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Winter Health Conference.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

We’re here to listen. Whether you want to share your health and social care experiences, or need help with a query or concern, our team is ready to support you. You can call us from 9am to 4pm every Monday to Friday, on 0300 180 0660.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

A new Warm Welcome has launched in the Primrose Hill area for anyone looking for a friendly place to meet new people. Date: Every Monday Time: 10am - 12pm Location: Primrose Hill Community Centre, Appleton Road Everyone welcome for: • Bingo • Dominoes • Tea, coffee and biscuits • Good company

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

@tsab75.bsky.social is busting some myths around safeguarding. Check out the facts below to make sure you are up to date.

010

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Join CGL Stockton Recovery Service and Bridges Family and Carer Service on 28 September for the Human Library. As part of Recovery Month, this event is your chance to hear impactful stories from the lived experience staff members at CGL Stockton Recovery Service. @changegrowlive.bsky.social

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

A new weekly bus service has launched, helping to improve access to essential services for residents in the Clarences. For many people, limited transport options can make it difficult to reach places outside the local area. This can create real challenges when trying to access healthcare etc.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

University Hospital Tees has launched The Big Maternity & Neonates Conversation & would like to hear from you. Have you used their maternity or neonatal services? The survey is open to people who have used services provided by University Hospitals Tees, including: ▪️James Cook University Hospital

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

This week, we are supporting @tsab75.bsky.social & their campaign: A Spotlight on the Identifying & Reporting Safeguarding Concerns. Over the week, we will be sharing TSAB's posts to highlight the important role we all play in identifying abuse & neglect & helping people get the support they need.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Janet from our engagement team and Johnny from Wolviston Village Community Centre were busy last week preparing for a health and wellbeing drop-in event at the Centre on 14th October. Plans are well underway for a range of local healthcare and wellbeing organisations to offer their services...

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

From Catalyst Stockton: Volunteering Matters’ Volunteer Driver Service, funded by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, provides support to those in need by giving access to volunteer drivers. Passengers are referred through community groups and local organisations or statutory services.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages with a friendly & informal introduction to British Sign Language (BSL). Learn some basic signs & greetings, explore Deaf culture, & discover opportunities for further learning. Date: Wednesday 23 Sept Time: 1pm - 2.30pm Location: Billingham Library

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

The Gluten Free in Stockton-on-Tees Group meets monthly for advice, recipe swaps etc. The next meeting is on 1st October, with more dates below. Date: Thursday 1 Oct Location: Elmwood Tea Rooms Time: 10.30am Find out more about a gluten-free lifestyle, share ideas, recipes & places to buy & eat!

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

The 'Stay Steady, Stay Safe' event, as part of Slips, Trips & Falls Awareness Day, is an opportunity for people to learn more & ask questions. The Slips, Trips & Falls Team from the University Hospital North Tees & Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council cover a wide range of practical advice & support...

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Our engagement team were at the Billingham Show on Saturday! Lynn and Janet spoke with members of the public about how Healthwatch can help them, and heard about their health and care experiences, including GPs and dentists. The anonymous feedback they received will be shared with healthcare...

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

At Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees, we know improving health and wellbeing relies on strong community organisations working alongside people and services. Teesside Mind's latest Impact Report provides a great insight into the reach and value of that work across our area.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

The pharmacy first service is being expanded to include more conditions over time. Pharmacy First allows people to get care for certain common illnesses without needing to see a GP first. From the autumn, independent community pharmacists in England will be able to prescribe for: ▪️migraine

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

This World Suicide Prevention Day, remember that support is available if you or someone you know is struggling. If you need urgent help for your mental health, call 111 and select the mental health option for expert advice and support.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Sometimes health problems like stress, back pain or long-term conditions make it hard to stay in work or return to work. If you are finding this difficult, a WorkWell coach may be able to help. WorkWell is a free NHS regional programme for people whose health affects their ability work.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Our engagement team are out and about this month to speak to Stockton residents about their health and care queries. You can chat with Lynn and Janet in confidence at the following drop-ins/events: 12 Sept - Stand at Billingham Show, John Whitehead Park, 10am - 4pm

101

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

Have your say! Let us know what you thought about your recent health and care experiences in Stockton. Tell us what has been good or what could be better. Your information is completely confidential and will help improve local healthcare services.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

Know Your Numbers Week (7 - 13 September) is the UK's biggest blood pressure awareness campaign. Pop over to Stockton Central Library for a quick blood pressure check with a healthcare professional. Date: Wednesday 9 September Time: 11am - 1pm Location: Stockton Central Library

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

If you receive an NHS screening invitation, don't ignore it – book it. NHS screening programmes are designed to identify potential health problems before symptoms appear, giving you the best chance of receiving treatment early if needed. Screening is offered to different groups of people at...

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Sign up to our monthly newsletter for useful & concise news on local health & care services, plus: - Updates on our project work & reports - Our engagement events - Health advice and information Register here: eepurl.com/c9HWyb #stocktonontees #health #care #information #advice #news

000

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

Recently, we welcomed Colleen Metcalfe to our Board. As a Deaf person, Colleen brings valuable lived experience, insight and perspective to our discussions. Wanting to ensure she could fully participate in her first Board meeting, we trialled a digital speech-to-text app to support communication.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Pregnancies come with all sorts of questions and worry. Speak to your midwife or GP to get the information and support you need on flu, whooping cough and RSV vaccinations to protect your baby and you during your pregnancy.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

Want to see some of the feedback we've received recently? We have published our 'You Told Us' report, bringing together the feedback you've shared with us and showing how it helps shape our work across Stockton-on-Tees. Read: bit.ly/4y3tMYi #stocktonontees #health #care #yourvoicecounts

000

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Your mental health is important. If you need support, a friendly chat, a cuppa, or simply a little kindness, The Wellbeing Hub in Stockton is here for you. If you're feeling anxious or depressed, these organisations and charities can also offer support and will listen and not judge.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

NHS England is now rolling out HPV self-testing kits for women who have fallen behind on their cervical screening. The free kits can be used at home, making it easier for more women to complete potentially lifesaving checks to help prevent cervical cancer. Eligible women will start receiving...

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

Christopher Akers-Belcher, Regional Coordinator for the Healthwatch North East & North Cumbria (NENC) Network, was recently invited to present the network's achievements to the NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB). We're proud to see the impact of the Healthwatch network...

110

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

Would you like to use the NHS App, but need someone to manage it for you? Are you a parent or carer who supports someone to manage their health? 'Proxy Access' is a way for family, carers and parents to use the NHS App on someone else's behalf. You both need to be registered at the same practice.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

Stockton Council's Thriving Communities tour bus will be visiting towns across the Borough next week, giving residents the opportunity to speak with the Council about local services and issues that matter to them. Find out more about: ▪️Residents Survey ▪️Health initiatives ▪️Social care support

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

Our Board member Liam Knowles has shared his knowledge and experience in two recent industry articles around substance misuse. He contributed to an article for BBC News In-Depth about the rise of Pregabalin & other anxiety medications as an alternative to alcohol. Read: bit.ly/4ihUZl6

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

August bank holiday is coming soon. Prepare by keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home. Paracetamol, plasters, indigestion remedy, allergy relief and anti-diarrhoeal medicine are a good place to start.

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

How do people feel about AI technology taking notes in their healthcare appointments? @healthwatchengland.bsky.social launched its own research after patients shared concerns with local Healthwatch that AI scribes were causing errors in medical records.

110

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

Starfish Services Stockton's Women’s Group is a welcoming space to chat and enjoy some optional crafts. There’s no pressure to take part — just come along, meet new people and enjoy a cuppa! Date: every Thursday Time: 12 - 3pm Location: 6–8 Yarm Road, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 3NA

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 14/08/2026

Leo's have launched Her Journey, a specialist trauma-informed support service from Leo's Neonatal & Baby Loss Charity, delivered through the Pilgrim Trust Young Women in Mind Programme. Her Journey provides dedicated support for young women aged 16 to 25 who have experienced:

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

100

Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees @hwstockton.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Have you had a chance to read our latest report yet? Enter & Views are part of our statutory role and we revisited Synergise Pharmacy as a follow up to our visit in 2024. We also spent time at Elm Tree Medical Centre following positive feedback from patients.

101