Healthwatch Bedford Borough

13/11/2025

Winter comes with a higher risk of health issues, particularly for older people, those with long-term conditions or a compromised immune system. Check out recommendations from the NHS to look after your health this winter - https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/advice-and-information/2025-10-07/how-stay-well-winter

13/11/2025

❄️ Staying Well This Winter ❄️

Today, Healthwatch Bedford Borough has attended a welcoming community event organised by ACCM UK, bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together to learn practical ways to stay healthy and supported this winter.

From informative talks and gentle activities to friendly conversations and exhibition stalls — the atmosphere was relaxed, open, and genuinely community-driven.

Our Commumity Outreach amd Volunteering Officer, Diana, engaged with residents, sharing information and listening to real experiences that guide our work.

A huge thank you to all partner organisations for creating a space of unity, support, and collaboration.
Stronger communities start with events like this. 💙

06/11/2025

Following the success of the initial ‘Meet the Midwives’ session held on 1 November 2025, we are delighted to announce its relaunch.

This initiative has been reintroduced in response to feedback from the recent homebirth service review, where service users shared how valuable it would be to have this support available in the community.

The next session will be held on Saturday 6 December at Queens Park Family Hub, from 1:30pm to 3:00pm. You're warmly invited to drop in, meet the team, and ask any questions you may have.

These sessions are especially for women / birthing people who are planning a homebirth or are exploring their options.

05/11/2025

Healthwatch Bedford Borough continue to support the vital work of Bedford Borough Parent Carer Forum. It's important that local families have their say on this topic 📋💻

💬 Mainstream Challenges

“𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬.”

Last year, many families told us that life in mainstream schools can be especially tough — from feeling misunderstood to struggling for the right support.

We’re listening again this year to see what’s changed. 💜

Your feedback helps us work with schools and the Local Authority to make education more inclusive for every child.

📋 Take the 2025 BBPCF Annual Survey → http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FYK3RWJ

🟣 Please complete one survey for 𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝, as every experience is unique.

31/10/2025

🦷 Urgent Dental Care is available for all residents!

If you’re in pain or need urgent dental treatment, you can access the Additional Urgent Dental Care Appointments Scheme by calling NHS 111.

This service supports patients with:
✅ Severe dental pain
✅ Swelling in the mouth
✅ Bleeding that won’t stop
…and other urgent dental issues.

You’ll be directed to one of our 11 local dental providers for a clinical triage. If appropriate, an appointment will be arranged for you.

Please note: this service is for urgent dental needs only and does not replace routine check-ups.

24/10/2025

On today at Central Family Hub in the town centre: 30 Allhallows, Bedford MK40 1LN.

📢 Vaccination Drop In Clinic - 24 October

Have your or your family missed any vaccinations?

The team will be at Central Family Hub to talk about any missing vaccinations.

No appointment needed, just pop in.

📍Central Family Hub
📆 Friday 24 October
⏰ 12.30 - 3.30pm

24/10/2025

Many people who provide unpaid care are unaware of their rights. Are you an unpaid carer? Find out more about the help and support you are entitled to. https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/advice-and-information/2025-10-02/what-support-can-i-get-carer

21/10/2025

🎤 Healthwatch Bedford Borough at the Bedford Giving Young Voices Conference!

Today our Community Outreach and Volunteer Officer, Diana, and Youth Ambassador, Davynn, joined partners across Bedford to celebrate and strengthen youth voice.

Powerful discussions on what feeling secure means to young people and how we can support them to shape local services.

HBB are proud to keep young voices at the heart of what we do 💚

17/10/2025

🌸 Out and About in the Community! 🌸

Today our Community Outreach and Volunteer Officer, Diana, joined the 'Walk into Women’s Wellness' taster event at John Bunyan Sports & Fitness Centre hosted by Better and Healthwise.

It was an inspiring session dedicated to women’s wellbeing, featuring taster sessions like yoga, strength training, self-defence, and walking football — all promoting movement, confidence, and connection 💪💬

Diana was there listening to residents’ experiences and sharing how we champion your voice in health and social care across the borough.

👋 If you see us out and about, come say hi! Your feedback helps shape better local services — because your voice truly matters. 💚

10/10/2025

On remember, you’re not alone.

Every voice helps us understand what needs to change in mental health provision.
By sharing your experiences you’re helping create a community where everyone gets the support they need.

💚 Find out how you can 'Have Your Say' by clicking here:
https://www.healthwatchbedfordborough.co.uk/have-your-say

02/10/2025

Monitor your blood pressure monthly!
If you have high cholesterol, diabetes, or other health conditions, keeping track is vital for your wellbeing.