On 11 March 2025, we hosted a dynamic and engaging conference at the College Court Conference Centre, bringing together 83 delegates from local community groups, healthcare professionals and members of the public.
Themed “Speak Up, Be Heard,” the event provided an opportunity for open discussions on health and care services, ensuring that community voices help shape local priorities.
Keynote speaker Louise Ansari, CEO of Healthwatch England, shared insights on how HWLL’s work aligns with national objectives and addressed challenges facing the NHS. Attendees also heard from Kevin Allen-Khimani, CEO of Voluntary Action LeicesterShire and Harsha Kotecha, Chair of the Healthwatch Advisory Board, who emphasised the power of patient voice in shaping healthcare improvements.
The heart of the event was an interactive session where delegates shared their experiences, highlighting what works well in health and care services and identifying areas for improvement. Through engaging activities—including a priority pyramid and a “spending” exercise—attendees selected their top three priorities for Leicester and Leicestershire: GP access, mental health and social care.
With positive feedback, including 31 delegates rating the event as ‘excellent’, the conference reinforced the importance of community-led conversations in driving change. The insights gathered will help shape HWLL’s future work, ensuring that local voices continue to make an impact.
Have Your Say: What Matters Most in Health and Social Care?
At our recent conference, attendees identified the top three priorities for Leicester and Leicestershire:
▪ GP Access
▪ Mental Health
▪ Adult Social care
We want to hear from you. Do you agree with these priorities, or do you think something else should take precedence?
Complete our short survey and have your say:
www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/HWPriorities2025
The survey closes on Friday 11 April 2025.