A CONTRACT that aims to improve health and care services in Warrington has been renewed.

It comes as the council has awarded the new Healthcare Warrington contract to Engaging Communities Solutions Community Interest Company (ECS).

ECS, which has held the contract since 2018, says this means it can continue to maintain the high level of support offered to the town’s residents.

The contract will include Healthwatch services and also the NHS Complaints Advocacy service contract.

It will continue to ensure that health and social care experiences of people in Warrington are ‘sought and heard’.

Elizabeth Learoyd, managing director of ECS said: "ECS have a wealth of experience in providing Healthwatch and NHS Complaints Advocacy services in Warrington and are committed to successfully continue these vital services in the borough.

"This renewal reflects the hard work that has consistently been done over the last six years to champion the views of local people and really have an impact.

“The work of the staff, board members, volunteers and of the entire team of Healthwatch Warrington has been invaluable in helping to improve local health and care services during challenging times.

“I am delighted that Warrington Borough council has extended the Healthwatch Warrington contract with us and thank everyone involved in securing this contract renewal. I also thank all the people in Warrington who support us and tell us about their experiences and needs for the local health and care services.

“We have a lot more work to do but we will continue to strive for the best possible health and care outcomes for Warrington.”

Lydia Hughes CEO for Healthwatch Warrington added: “We are delighted to receive this news, as we are committed to advocate and work with the residents of Warrington.

“We have a full work programme to deliver this year and are particularly proud of our achievements around Children and Mental Health impacts and our Women’s Health Strategy work.”