Speak Up, Be Heard: A Recap of Our 2025 Conference
Themed “Speak Up, Be Heard,” the event provided an opportunity for open discussions on health and care services, ensuring that community voices help shape local priorities.
Keynote speaker Louise Ansari, CEO of Healthwatch England, shared insights on how HWLL’s work aligns with national objectives and addressed challenges facing the NHS.
Attendees also heard from Kevin Allen-Khimani, CEO of Voluntary Action LeicesterShire and Harsha Kotecha, Chair of the Healthwatch Advisory Board, who emphasised the power of patient voice in shaping healthcare improvements.
The heart of the event was an interactive session where delegates shared their experiences, highlighting what works well in health and care services and identifying areas for improvement. Through engaging activities—including a priority pyramid and a “spending” exercise—attendees selected their top three priorities for Leicester and Leicestershire: GP access, mental health and social care.
With positive feedback, including 31 delegates rating the event as ‘excellent’, the conference reinforced the importance of community-led conversations in driving change. The insights gathered will help shape HWLL’s future work, ensuring that local voices continue to make an impact.
