King’s Fund Report Backs Importance of Independent Patient Voice

Blog - 19 March 2026

A major new report from the King’s Fund has today highlighted the essential role that an independent patient voice plays in health and social care — and warns against losing this independence as part of upcoming government reforms.


Government proposals raise concerns

The government intends to introduce legislation that would abolish Healthwatch England and the network of local Healthwatch services, bringing patient voice functions “in house” within Integrated Care Boards, local authorities, and the Department of Health and Social Care. This would end more than fifty years of formally recognised independent patient voice. 

What The King’s Fund found

The report concludes that:

  • Healthwatch has been more impactful than previous models of patient voice
  • Independence is a core strength, offering credibility with the public
  • Strong local relationships allow Healthwatch to gather insight that the system itself cannot
  • Any future system must retain independence to maintain trust and effectiveness.

Sector leaders voice strong support

Richard Burden, Local Healthwatch Working Together Parliamentary Engagement Coordinator and Chair of Healthwatch Birmingham and Solihull, said:

“Patients and the public deserve better than to have the NHS and local authorities marking their own homework… I hope this report will encourage Ministers to think again.” 

Former Minister Lord Hunt added that governments of all colours have long recognised the importance of independent patient voice and pledged to work with colleagues in Parliament to ensure this principle is protected in forthcoming debates.

Read the full report

Kings Fund report

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