Celebrating a milestone in quality and service excellence, Healthwatch Gateshead and Healthwatch Newcastle have achieved the prestigious ‘Committed to Quality’ status through Healthwatch England’s Quality Framework self-assessment. This recognition highlights their dedication to continuous improvement and excellence in supporting their communities.
The Quality Framework, designed by Healthwatch England in collaboration with local Healthwatch teams, is a rigorous self-assessment tool that enables organisations to evaluate and strengthen their approach to leadership, people, sustainability, collaboration, core work, and impact. By meeting these standards, they are recognised as a trusted voice for local people and an effective advocate for positive change in health and social care services.
Feyi Awotona, Chair of Tell Us North who manages Healthwatch Gateshead and Healthwatch Newcastle, shared her enthusiasm for this accomplishment:
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our teams in Gateshead and Newcastle. We are committed to ensuring our communities receive the very best from Healthwatch, and this certification truly reflects that commitment. The Quality Framework has not only validated our efforts but has also provided us with a blueprint for continuous improvement in serving and empowering people who use health and social care services in our areas.”
The Quality Framework evaluates key areas including leadership and decision-making, commitment to staff and volunteer development, collaboration with local organisations and the Care Quality Commission, and influence and impact to advocate for meaningful change across health and social care systems.
Delana Lawson, Quality Assurance & Regional Manager (North East, Yorkshire & Humberside) for Healthwatch England said “The Quality Framework provides a shared understanding of the key ingredients of running an effective local Healthwatch service, and it’s a useful tool for local Healthwatch organisations to work out what they’re doing well and where they could be doing even better. I’m really pleased that Healthwatch Gateshead and Healthwatch Newcastle have completed it and found going through the self-assessment process rewarding and beneficial.”
Feyi Awotona concluded, “This recognition is a shared achievement, and it belongs to our entire community. Under the leadership of, Yvonne Probert, our dynamic CEO, together, we are building stronger, healthier communities, and this milestone celebrates the positive difference we are making every day.
Media and PR keith@highlightspr.co.uk 07814 397951