Healthwatch York exists to make sure what matters to people in York helps shape our health and care services. Healthwatch York works hard to listen to people, and to use what they say to make positive change in health and social care services for local people.
City of York Council will soon start work to develop a neurodiversity strategy. In partnership with local groups Parent Carer Forum York, York Carers Centre and the Land, Healthwatch York is asking people to share their experiences of what works, and what needs to be improved.
Healthwatch York will write a report based on what people tell them. This will then be shared with people who make decisions about local health and social care services, and the people who run those services.
Siân Balsom, the Manager of Healthwatch York said:
“We are grateful to the families who have already spoken with us, and our partners, for sharing their experiences. Many are hard to read but show clearly how we can make York better for neurodivergent young people. We want to make sure we hear from as many people as possible to understand the challenges they have had, and the things that have made a real difference to their lives. If you have had an experience of health and care support, good or bad, that services could learn from, I appeal to you to come forward, talk to us and make sure our city’s strategy is shaped by your experiences.”
A spokesperson from Parent Carer Forum York added:
“Parent Carer Forum York works with Health, Social Care and Education to make sure that lived experience helps shape services for our young people. We encourage people to share their experiences. Parent Carer Forum York will work with Healthwatch to make sure this report helps inform plans for the future.”
A spokesperson for The Land in Haxby, added:
“Change is essential in services regarding neurodivergent children and their families. The ability of these services to adapt and change will significantly determine a more positive and successful future and life for many neurodivergent children. This is vital in preventing ongoing trauma and anxiety to so many. Please take some time to share your experiences.”
Please share your experiences by email at healthwatch@yorkcvs.org.uk or by phone 01904 621133.
People can also call to talk through the questions with a member of the team if they would prefer to do this. Although they are always interested in hearing experiences, for this piece of work, the deadline to share by is 9am Monday 25 November 2024.