2025/26 Projects
Healthwatch Lancashire gathers people’s experiences about health and social care services and uses this feedback to inform NHS leaders and decision-makers, helping to influence change and shape improvements. We monitor the feedback we hear, and emerging themes inform our annual work plan.
Remember to visit our feedback centre if you want to share your views on health and social care services across Lancashire.
Men’s Health
In 2024 we conducted a major study on Women’s Health. This project will turn attention to men. Like women, men face specific health challenges, many of which disproportionately affect them. On average, men die nearly four years earlier than women and are at higher risk for conditions such as certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Mental health is also a critical concern. Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues and are significantly more likely to die by suicide. Additionally, health inequalities across the country are stark. Men in the most deprived areas of England have a life expectancy almost 10 years lower than those in more affluent regions.
This study will begin with a broad survey to understand men’s health concerns and priorities. Based on the findings, we will then conduct a more in-depth investigation into the key issues identified in the first phase. Engagement will take place through an online survey and regional outreach activities to ensure diverse perspectives are included.
Project 3: Ageing Well Without Family
The number of people over 65 without children is expected to rise significantly in the coming years due to various socio-economic and cultural factors, such as the increasing cost of living and a growing number of adults choosing not to have children.
This demographic shift will have profound implications for social care and healthcare systems. The demand for care homes and in-home care services is expected to surge, placing additional strain on the NHS. For instance, older adults may be deemed unfit to return home alone, as there will be no family members available to provide care. Those ageing without a support network are also at greater risk of receiving inadequate care, with no one to monitor their health and well-being.
This project aims to identify key concerns and challenges associated with ageing without children and explore strategies to mitigate the impact on future services. It will begin with broad research before focusing on critical themes in health and social care. The findings will be shared with the Integrated Care Board (ICB), NHS, and other relevant stakeholders to inform policy and service development.
Take part in our Ageing Well Without Family survey here.
The Impact of Social Media on Young Children
Research indicates that 46% of internet users aged 13 to 17 have encountered online harassment, while 28% have experienced some form of cyberbullying. Additionally, studies link heavy social media use to lower self-esteem and negative well-being,
particularly among girls.
This project will explore the impact of social media on young people’s mental health, their online behaviour, their safety on social platforms, and how social media influences their self-perception. It will also seek to understand how the local council, schools, and parents are addressing the growing use of social media among young people and the measures they have implemented to promote safety and well-being.
Research for this project will involve an online survey, speaking to children and young people across Lancashire to hear their views and experiences, as well as collaborating with schools and colleges and LCC for professional perspectives.
