People across the Bradford district are being urged to share their experiences of local health and social care services to help drive improvements for all.

Healthwatch Bradford & District is inviting patients to #SpeakUp as part of a new campaign that build on work from last year when local people were asked to outline their health priorities for 2018.

The health watchdog gathered the views and experiences of more than 1,600 residents across on health and social care in 2017, but now wants to hear even more stories and shared experiences.

Over the last year, Healthwatch hosted events in transport hubs and shopping centres, as well as visiting local hospitals to hear what people had to say.

Access to primary care services such as GPs and dentists was identified as the district’s number one issue for 2018. The other three key priorities were mental health services, A&E departments/emergency care services, and social care support for older people and those with disabilities.

The priorities were identified during consultation in hospitals and other healthcare locations, transport hubs and shopping centres.

“This year Healthwatch Bradford will be following on from its work in 2017 and will be focusing on the things that matter most to local people. We are calling for people to contact us and speak up about their ideas and experiences. We are launching a campaign to get more people to share their views about these and other issues.

“If you have an idea that could help improve health and social care for you, a loved one or your community, contact us at healthwatchbradford.co.uk and #SpeakUp.

“No matter how big or small the issue, we want to hear about it,” said Sarah Hutchinson, of Healthwatch Bradford & District.

She added: “The more that people share their ideas, experiences and concerns about health and social care, the more services can understand when improvements are needed. That is why we are encouraging people to #SpeakUp in 2018 to help make services better for the people of Bradford and District.”

National Director of Healthwatch England Imelda Redmond said: “Healthwatch helps improve care by making sure services hear people’s views - what is working for you and what is not. As we approach the 70th birthday of the NHS, if anyone has a story they want to share or an idea they think might help, I urge them to get involved and speak to their local Healthwatch.”

The organisation is the independent champion for people who use health and social care services, sharing the public’s views with decision-makers within government and the health service. Anyone wanting to have a say can also go to Twitter, @HealthwatchBfd.