Health inequalities of children and young people
The health and wellbeing of children and young people in Craven and across West Yorkshire are at the heart of a new briefing paper by local Healthwatch and West Yorkshire Voice. This paper brings together the insights and voices of children, young people, parents, and carers, highlighting both successes and areas for improvement in local healthcare services. The feedback gathered focuses on issues central to children and young people, especially in the areas of mental health and asthma.
In Craven, children, young people, and their families play a vital role in shaping healthcare services, and this paper ensures their voices are heard at a high level. By sharing experiences, concerns, and suggestions, community members are helping to spotlight what works well and where services can evolve to better meet local needs.
And we didn’t just listen to a few people. We made sure we heard from everyone, especially those facing the biggest health challenges, the ones who often feel left out of healthcare decisions. Your experiences and ideas help make healthcare better and more suited to real-life needs.
Why feedback is important
The feedback we gathered shaped a briefing paper that was presented at a big NHS meeting in June. This paper doesn’t sit on a shelf—it’s there to make sure real experiences are front and centre when the NHS makes big decisions. It’s part of our ongoing work to make healthcare fairer and more effective across West Yorkshire, and Healthwatch is right there as a voice for the people, making sure your stories are heard.
This meeting was with the NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, the organisation responsible for planning and budgeting healthcare services across the region, including here in Craven. It is part of something called West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, of which Healthwatch is part of. Healthwatch, as part of this, brings what we’ve heard from you directly into discussions that shape healthcare in our community.
Most decisions about the £5 billion budget and services delivered are made locally in five local "places" across West Yorkshire. One of which is Bradford and Craven (Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership).
What happens next?
With your feedback, the local NHS and other health organisations now have a clearer picture of what people locally really need. This isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about building a healthcare system that truly supports childre, young people, carers and families. It’s about getting services where they’re needed most, spending money wisely, and making sure our healthcare works for everyone, no matter their background.
We know there’s a long way to go. But by speaking up, you’re helping guide important plans and decisions. Together, we’re working toward a future where healthcare in Craven is truly shaped by the people who use it.
Thank you for sharing your experiences—you’re helping make Craven’s healthcare better for everyone.
