Health Bill
The Health Bill, a proposed government legislative bill, is progressing through Parliament with plans to abolish Healthwatch organisations.
The Health Bill, a proposed government legislative bill concerning health services, is progressing through Parliament, with the government aiming for Royal Assent by the end of 2026. This legislation includes plans to abolish Healthwatch organisations, potentially leading to their end by April 2027, as reported in September 2026 by Healthwatch Wandsworth. The Bill proposes transferring Healthwatch functions to Integrated Care Boards and local authorities.
However, the Bill provides little detail on how these functions will be delivered, and guidance from the Department of Health and Social Care is awaited. In July 2026, Healthwatch Richmond's Chief Officer, Mike Derry, expressed concern that the proposed reforms could weaken the independent public voice, particularly for marginalised groups. The Bill is expected to come into force by the end of March 2027.
Key facts
- The government aims for Royal Assent for the Health Bill by the end of 2026. Source
- The Health Bill could lead to the end of Healthwatch organisations by April 2027. Source
- The Health Bill proposes transferring Healthwatch functions to Integrated Care Boards and local authorities. Source
- The Health Bill is expected to come into force by the end of March 2027. Source
- Guidance from the Department of Health and Social Care on Healthwatch functions is awaited. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.