Our annual report 2025-2026
Speaking up for better care
Summary
Healthwatch Islington is your local health and social care champion.
We ensure that NHS leaders and decision‑makers hear your voice and use your feedback to improve care. We can also help you find reliable and trustworthy information and advice.
Our year in numbers
- We supported almost 6,000 people to have their say and get information about their care.
- We currently employ 10 staff and our work is supported by 15 volunteers.
- 122 people shared their experiences of health and social care services with us, helping to raise awareness of issues and improve care.
- 5578 people came to us for clear advice and information on topics such as mental health support and finding an NHS dentist.
Highlights from the year
- Our Closing the Gap event brought colleagues from over 50 organisations across North Central London together to strengthen action on health inequalities.
- Our Community Research project found low awareness of the health risks linked to shisha smoking, resulting in the service now looking at the issue nationally, highlighting a potential gap in those invited for lung cancer screening.
- Our Mental Health Partnerships team worked alongside North London NHS Foundation Trust’s Core Teams to connect residents with community-based support. Over the year, the team provided meaningful links for 260 queries, including support
around activity, exercise, social connection and digital access. - 43 Horn of Africa participants, including 16 people living with or beyond cancer, took part in our Physical Activity project. Almost 100% reported improved mobility, reduced stress and greater confidence to keep active.
