Tell Us North CIC has been the legal entity and host organisation for Healthwatch Gateshead for over a decade.
Healthwatch Gateshead is the independent local champion for people using health and social care services in Gateshead.
The organisation gathers residents’ views and experiences, provides advice and information, and works with service providers and decision-makers to help improve NHS and social care services. Healthwatch Gateshead also offers opportunities for local people to share feedback, take part in surveys, access support, and stay informed about health-related news, reports, and community initiatives.
During 2025-26, Healthwatch Gateshead supported 8,249 local people to access information and have their voices heard in decisions about health and social care services. 7,352 residents told the organisation about their experiences. In addition, 371 people got in touch directly seeking information and signposting:
“Thank you. Without you, progress would not have been made and
I have an appointment coming now at the hospital, that is all
I wanted. I can’t thank you enough for hearing me.”
– Testimonial from a Healthwatch Gateshead community drop-in session
As host organisation for Healthwatch Gateshead, we also involved 526 residents in research projects during this period. This led to seven reports, including studies of women’s health and menopause services, hospital discharge experiences, dementia care and the impact on unpaid carers, as well as Enter and View visits to local care homes and community facilities.
The evidence gathered through Healthwatch Gateshead’s reports and engagement work provided valuable insights for commissioners, providers, and decision-makers, helping to shape services around the needs of local people.
This work of this year alone demonstrates the significant impact that listening to and amplifying community voices can have. By connecting with thousands of residents and ensuring their experiences are heard, Healthwatch Gateshead continues to play a vital role in improving health and social care services across the borough.
To find out more, read the Healthwatch Gateshead Annual Report. You can also explore our work with Healthwatch Newcastle and Full Circle Food Project.
Interested in a service like this one? Contact us, or find out more about what we do.
Tell Us North 