Over 2,000 women and girls speak out – but more voices are needed

News - 21 January 2026

Healthwatch Leicester and Leicestershire, together with Healthwatch Rutland, have now heard from over 2,000 women and girls through their Every Woman’s Health Matters survey and are urging more people to take part before the survey closes on 31 March 2026.

This powerful initiative is capturing real-life experiences of women’s health across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, including mental health, menopause, sexual health, and access to care. The Healthwatch organisations are calling on local media, schools, colleges and community groups to help amplify the survey and reach even more women and girls.

“We’ve now heard from over 2,000 women and girls, which really shows how much this matters. But we also know there are many more stories to share. Every response helps us better understand what’s working, what isn’t and how health and care services across our area can be improved.” 

Harsha Kotecha, Chair of Healthwatch Leicester and Leicestershire

“In Rutland, rurality can bring additional barriers to accessing women’s health services. This survey gives women and girls a real opportunity to influence change and ensure services meet their needs.”

Dr Janet Underwood, Chair of Healthwatch Rutland

The anonymous survey takes around 10 minutes to complete. All findings will be shared with NHS and system leaders to highlight gaps, challenge inequalities and drive improvements in women’s health services.

With the survey closing on 31 March 2026, Healthwatch is encouraging women and girls aged 14+ who lives in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland to take part and share widely.


Main survey: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/WomansHealthMatters 


Topic-based surveys: www.healthwatchll.com/WomansHealthMatters

 

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Every Woman's Health Matters

Healthwatch Leicester and Leicestershire (HWLL) and Healthwatch Rutland (HWR) is calling on women and girls of all ages, backgrounds and communities to take part in a new survey about their experiences of health and care services. We want to gather real stories and insights to help influence and improve the way local NHS and care services support women and girls.
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