There's a lot of jargon and fake news in the world of health and social care. We provide trustworthy information in plain English to help you understand your options.
Healthwatch Sandwell is working to understand the experiences of people affected by cancer in our area. By sharing your story through our survey, you can help us identify what's working well and where improvements are needed in cancer care and support services.
Healthwatch England says "Most adults in England have to pay for their prescriptions. The NHS prescription charge is usually £9.90 per item. Some items, like contraceptives, are free.
Some people get their prescriptions for free. A lot of people know they get free NHS prescriptions if they're under 16 or over 60. But you can also qualify for free prescriptions for other reasons, such as if you have certain medical conditions or receive certain benefits."
We have published our Annual Report for 2024/25, showcasing the voices of local people and the impact of their feedback on health and social care services. From GP access to SEND support, the report highlights the real experiences of Sandwell residents and how their views have helped shape improvements across the system.