NHS and social care staff are doing everything they can to keep us well during these challenging times, but there might be things that can be improved for you and your loved ones, both in the area you live in and across the country.
We have just launched two of the projects from the 2026/2027 Work Programme.
NHS App
More people are using the NHS App than ever before, and it is becoming a key part of the Government’s plan to create a modern, efficient health service. However, digital exclusion remains a significant challenge across the UK, particularly for some groups who may struggle to access online services.
In autumn 2025, the Government announced plans to introduce the NHS’s first national “digital-first” online service for planned care. This aims to reduce waiting times and make it easier for people to access high-quality care.
We want to hear from you, the service user. So get involved.
link to survey: https://tinyurl.com/mryh8v3s
Patient experience of Walsall Manor Hospital Appointments
Patients reported that their appointments had been cancelled, despite attending as scheduled on the day, only to be informed upon arrival that their appointment(s) were no longer going ahead. In one case, this occurred on three separate occasions.
Healthwatch Walsall is seeking to understand whether there are recurring issues with appointment management. If you have attended appointments at Walsall Manor Hospital within the past two years, please take a few minutes to complete this survey and share your experiences.
We want to hear from you, the service user. So get involved.
With weather warnings and the forecast of frosty temperatures extended until Sunday 11 January, the NHS is reminding people to take care in the cold weather.
Slips, trips and falls all become more likely during wet, cold and icy weather conditions, so it’s important to be mindful of the weather before venturing outside.
There are many steps that can be taken to reduce the chances of falling, including keeping hands free to help stabilise yourself, wearing shoes with good grip and avoiding going out early in the morning when frost is thick or late at night when it’s dark.
Dr Mona Sidhu, a GP in Wolverhampton and Primary Care Medical Director for NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “Falls can happen to anyone, especially when the weather is colder, wetter and there’s ice on the ground. However, older people are even more vulnerable to such accidents.
“If they were to fall there is likely to be a bigger impact on their overall health, whether that be physically through injury or mentally and emotionally through loss of confidence and an increase in anxiety.
“As the temperature continues to drop, streets can be extremely slippery underfoot due to fallen leaves and icy pavements, so we would encourage all older people to take extra care when out and about.
“If you do need to go outside, wear shoes or boots with a flat, low heel and a slip-resistant sole to reduce slipping hazards and a good tread that helps to grip the surface. It’s important to keep warm and wear layers, both inside and outside, as when you’re cold you naturally tense up so you don’t move as well as you would normally.
“It’s also important to keep your hands free and wear gloves when walking so you can help stabilise or save yourself from a more significant injury if you were to fall. The more we rush, the more likely we are to fall, so plan ahead to give yourself plenty of time to complete an activity or get to an appointment.
“If you can, always try to let someone know what your plans are and what time you anticipate being home and be sure to have access to a mobile phone where possible so you can call for help if necessary.”
People are also being encouraged to check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be
more at risk of a fall.
Dr Natasha Behl, a GP in Solihull, added: “Cold snaps can be particularly challenging for older people and those with long-term health conditions, especially if icy conditions make it harder to get out and about.
“Checking in on loved ones during this time is incredibly important. A quick phone call, a knock on the door, or offering to pick up shopping or prescriptions can help prevent accidents and ensure people are staying warm, well and supported.
“Making sure someone has enough food, heating and medication may seem like a small action, but it can make a huge difference to their health and wellbeing during periods of severe cold.”
Dear Walsall residents. We look forward to working with you and for you in 2026. In the meantime, if you have used a Walsall health or social care service during the holiday period, please share your experience on our 24.7 review platform 'Have Your Say'.
