News and reports

The System Influencers Programme brought together young people (16–25) and health professionals in City & Hackney to co-produce better health and care services. Over two years, five 12-week cycles engaged 71 young influencers and 26 mentors, delivering 19 youth-led projects on mental health, sexual health, equity, and community connection. These collaborations built trust, improved service accessibility, and inspired education pathways for participants. Despite challenges such as and time constraints, the programme proved that genuine partnership creates meaningful change. Showcases celebrated achievements and strengthened networks, making services more inclusive and youth-centred, a true example of co-production in action.

Healthwatch Hackney visited Allerton Road Medical Centre in June and September 2025 to assess patient experience and service quality. Findings show mixed feedback on appointment booking and reception interactions, with long waits linked to patient preference for familiar GPs. Accessibility challenges include limited translation support and English-only check-in systems. While staff culture is described as “family-like,” clearer governance is needed. Recommendations include improving communication, strengthening interpreter services, enhancing feedback visibility, and supporting continuity of care. The practice has committed to implementing these changes to ensure patient-centred improvements and better accessibility for vulnerable groups.