The Health and Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday, 1 September 2026, to discuss the ongoing issues with the Berwick Hospital build, the future of the NCC Telecare Service, and the annual report from Healthwatch Northumberland. The committee noted the presentation and update provided on the Berwick Hospital situation and suggested that an inquiry take place to investigate what happened, who was accountable, and to make recommendations to prevent a reoccurrence. For the NCC Telecare Service, the committee resolved to note the proposed operating model and the findings from the public consultation, and to note comments made on the proposed model prior to its consideration by Cabinet. The committee also resolved to note the Healthwatch Northumberland Annual Report and the comments made.

Berwick Hospital Update

The committee received an update on the new build community hospital in Berwick following delays caused by the original contractor, Merit, entering administration. Robertson Construction has now been appointed as the new contractor, and the Trust is working with them on a revised programme, which is expected to be shared publicly within the next few months. Remedial work is required, with some internal building services needing to be stripped out. The Trust anticipates the hospital will be complete by spring/summer of 2028.

During the discussion, members expressed frustration over the continued delays and praised the dedication of the staff. The Trust confirmed that the building was not being demolished and services would not be reduced. Concerns were raised about the circumstances of Merit's administration and the subsequent establishment of a new company by former directors. The Trust stated that processes were in place to ensure Merit was held accountable and that a lessons-learnt paper would be presented to the Trust's Board. The committee resolved to note the presentation and update provided, and the comments made, and to suggest that an inquiry take place to investigate what happened, who was accountable, and to make recommendations to prevent a reoccurrence.

NCC Telecare Service

The committee was presented with the outcome of a consultation on proposals for the future delivery of the NCC Telecare Service. This service, which uses technology like personal alarms to help people live independently at home, is currently facing financial challenges due to an inconsistent charging structure and costs exceeding income. The proposed operating model aims for full cost recovery and the cessation of the Mobile Warden Response Service in the old Blyth Valley locality, with telecare offered on a monitoring-only basis county-wide.

Consultation feedback indicated strong support for retaining a council-run service, with affordability being a significant concern. The Mobile Warden Response was valued by those who currently receive it. Members raised concerns about the capability of technology in rural areas, the financial implications of proposed cost changes, and sought assurances that alternative support would be available for those unable to afford increased charges. The committee resolved to note the proposed operating model and the findings from the public consultation, and to note comments made on the proposed model prior to its consideration by Cabinet.

Healthwatch Northumberland Annual Report

Derry Nugent, Deputy Chief Executive of Adapt NE and Strategic Lead of Healthwatch Northumberland, presented the Healthwatch Northumberland Annual Report 2025/26. The report highlighted Healthwatch's work in bringing people's experiences into decision-making, reaching underserved communities, supporting service design, and influencing policy. In the past year, 2,564 people shared their experiences, and over 13,000 people contacted Healthwatch for advice and information. Key themes emerging from their work included access, communication, continuity, inclusion, and trust. Priorities for the upcoming year include GP services, hospital discharge services, and audiology services. The committee resolved to note the Healthwatch Northumberland Annual Report and the comments made.

Primary Care Applications Working Group

The committee resolved to note the terms of reference for the Primary Care Applications Working Group and agreed its membership. The group will comprise Councillors V. Jones (Chair), G. Hill (Chair of the Health and Wellbeing OSC), I. Hunter, and A. Smith. Its purpose is to scrutinise and comment upon applications for variations to primary care services as a consultee on behalf of the committee.

Work Programme and Forward Plan

The committee resolved to note the report (Forward Plan) and resolved to note the work programme and comments made for the 2026/27 council year.