Healthy Futures
September 2026
Stephen’s getting back to life quicker thanks to groundbreaking cancer treatment
Welcome, from Joe
Welcome to the latest edition of Healthy Futures.
This month, we’re sharing some of the many ways we’re continuing to improve health and care services across Torbay and South Devon.
You’ll read about local people benefiting from new treatments, new services and practical improvements designed to make accessing care easier and more convenient. From bringing mobile x-rays directly into people’s homes and communities to offering a new prostate cancer treatment closer to home, these developments are helping people get the care they need while reducing the disruption that healthcare can sometimes bring to everyday life.
You’ll also read about improvements that have been shaped directly by feedback from local people and families. One example is the return of overnight stays on our maternity ward, something families told us was important to them as they welcome a new baby into the world.
Alongside improvements to services, we’re continuing to invest in our buildings, technology and people so that we can meet the needs of our communities now and in the future.
None of this happens without the commitment of our colleagues, volunteers, partners and supporters, and I would like to thank everyone who plays a part in helping us improve care for local people.
I hope you enjoy this latest edition of Healthy Futures.
Best wishes,
Joe Teape
Chief Executive
Further investment helps us continue improving Torbay Hospital
Torbay Hospital’s Tower Block has been given a further £1.8 million of government funding to support important fire safety improvements.
Torbay Hospital has one of the oldest hospital estates in the country, and we’re continuing to invest in maintaining and improving our buildings while plans for a new hospital move forward.
The funding will support ongoing work to help reduce fire safety risks in the Tower Block and ensure we can continue providing safe care for patients.
Our Chief Executive, Joe welcomes the funding. He said: “This funding is a welcome step forward and will help us continue important improvements within the Tower Block.
“While we plan for a new hospital, we’re committed to maintaining and improving our existing buildings so patients, visitors and colleagues continue to have safe environments in which to receive and provide care.
“We remain grateful to our local MPs and partners who continue to support our case for future investment in healthcare facilities across Torbay and South Devon.”
While planning for the future hospital continues, we’re also investing in improvements across our current estate. Recent projects include the redevelopment of the Emergency Department, improvements to maternity facilities and upgrades to essential infrastructure across the hospital site.
Together, these investments are helping us improve environments, support our workforce and provide the best possible care for local people.
New prostate cancer treatment now available closer to home
People diagnosed with early-stage localised prostate cancer can now benefit from a pioneering new treatment at Torbay Hospital.
Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) is an advanced form of radiotherapy that delivers highly targeted treatment directly to a tumour. The treatment is usually completed in just five sessions over two weeks, compared with around 20 sessions using standard radiotherapy.
Stephen Dwyer-Lapthorne has become the first person in Torbay and South Devon to receive the treatment following his diagnosis in October 2025.
Stephen said: “I was so pleased to be offered SABR at Torbay Hospital. I only have one session left and so far I’ve felt well throughout treatment, apart from some mild fatigue.”
The national rollout of SABR was approved by NHS England earlier this year, helping more people access the treatment closer to where they live.
Naomi Hopkins, our Head of Radiotherapy, said: “This is fantastic news for patients. We’re delighted to be able to offer SABR locally, helping people receive advanced treatment closer to home without needing to travel long distances.
“For many patients, fewer appointments can mean less disruption to daily life while still receiving highly effective treatment.”
Bringing x-rays closer to home
New mobile x-ray service launches across Torbay and South Devon.
Keep your eyes peeled for our new mobile x-ray service, bringing hospital-quality imaging directly to people in their homes and communities.
The service has been designed to support older people living with frailty and other vulnerable people who may find it difficult to travel. By taking diagnostic imaging directly to people, we’re helping reduce unnecessary hospital visits and making it easier for people to access the care they need.
Using specialist portable equipment, x-rays can be carried out in a person’s usual place of residence, with images securely reviewed by clinical teams.
This is an exciting step forward and a great example of how we’re transforming services around the needs of our communities.
By bringing care closer to home, we’re improving experiences, supporting independence and helping people get the right care in the right place.
The service launched earlier this month and we’ll be sharing more about the difference it’s already making in a future edition of Healthy Futures.
Community representatives see The Harbour in action
We’re incredibly proud of The Harbour, our community frailty service at Newton Abbot Community Hospital, which has been supporting older people living with frailty for almost a year.
The Harbour brings together specialist teams to provide assessment, diagnostics, treatment and support closer to home, helping people get the care they need without unnecessary trips to hospital.
Earlier this month, we welcomed representatives from Healthwatch, Torbay Citizens Assembly and the Torbay Carers Register to learn more about the service and meet the people behind it.
Following the visit, June Pierce from Torbay Citizens Assembly described The Harbour as “a great addition to our local NHS” and praised the warm welcome she received from colleagues.
If you think The Harbour may be able to help you or someone you know, speak to a healthcare professional involved in their care. Referrals can be made by GPs, community clinicians, hospital teams and the ambulance service.
New appointment service aims to make urgent care simpler
People needing urgent care in Torbay and South Devon are being encouraged to book a same-day appointment before attending Newton Abbot Urgent Treatment Centre.
The new appointment priority service launches on 28 September and has been introduced to help people access care more easily and give greater certainty about when they’ll be seen.
Appointments can be booked on the day by calling Newton Abbot Urgent Treatment Centre directly on 01626 324631.
The centre is open from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, including bank holidays.
Booking ahead will help reduce waiting times and allow the team to manage demand more effectively during busy periods.
The centre can assess and treat a range of urgent but non-life-threatening conditions, including:
- Sprains and strains
- Minor burns and cuts
- Bites and stings
- Suspected fractures
- Ear infections
- Tonsillitis
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
Anyone experiencing a life-threatening illness or injury should continue to call 999 or come to our Emergency Department at Torbay Hospital.
People who are more than 12 weeks pregnant, or who have given birth within the previous 28 days and have urgent concerns, should contact the maternity triage team directly on 01803 656588.
People continue to tell us they feel cared for, respected and supported
People receiving inpatient care across Torbay and South Devon continue to report positive experiences during their hospital stay, according to the latest national NHS inpatient survey.
Patients gave particularly positive feedback about the way they were treated while in hospital, reporting high levels of confidence in doctors and nurses and positive experiences of privacy, cleanliness, dignity and respect.
Overall, patients rated their hospital care experience 8.4 out of 10.
These results come during a period when hospitals across the country continue to experience significant pressures, including high demand for services and increasing numbers of patients with complex health needs.
Chief Nurse Nicola says: “It’s encouraging to hear that patients continue to tell us they were treated with kindness, dignity and respect while in our care.
“Our colleagues and volunteers work incredibly hard every day to support patients and their families, often in challenging circumstances, and it’s positive to see that reflected in the feedback people have shared with us.”
While we’re pleased by the results, we’re also listening carefully to areas where people feel we can improve, including communication about medicines, discharge planning and involving families and carers more closely in decisions about care.
Patient feedback remains one of the most important ways we learn, improve and shape future services. If you would like to recognise the great care you’ve received from one of our colleagues or teams, why not nominate them for an Our People Award?
Keeping families together on Torbay Hospital’s maternity ward
Families using maternity services at Torbay Hospital will be able to stay together overnight to support mother and baby, following feedback from parents and families.
Overnight stays were paused during the pandemic but are being reintroduced from 05 October as part of ongoing work to improve our maternity services . To help support mothers and babies during the first hours and days after birth, one person chosen by the family will be able to stay overnight on the postnatal ward, providing practical and emotional support while ensuring the comfort, privacy and wellbeing of everyone using the ward.
Our maternity services have been working closely with Devon Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership (MNVP), and families said that having a trusted relative or friend available to provide overnight support after birth was important to them. Many highlighted the benefits of having someone on hand to support bonding, infant feeding, practical tasks, reassurance and comfort during the first precious hours and days after birth. Overnight stays can also help families feel more confident as they begin life with their new baby.
Nicola McMinn, Chief Nurse, said: “We’re delighted to reintroduce overnight stays on our postnatal ward. We know from speaking to families and through feedback gathered with Devon Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership that this is something many people value and have told us is important to their experience of maternity care.
“Allowing a trusted relative or friend to stay overnight helps provide practical and emotional support for new parents, encourages bonding with their baby and creates a positive environment for families during those first days together. This change is an important step in continuing to improve the experience we provide for mothers, babies and their families.”
Families choosing to have someone stay overnight will be given information during midwife appointments to help ensure everyone on the ward remains safe, comfortable and respected.
Experienced healthcare leader joins our Board
We’re pleased to welcome Dr Karen Cox as a Non-Executive Director, bringing a wealth of experience from healthcare, education, research and leadership.
Karen has spent more than 35 years working across health and education, beginning her career as a nurse before moving into senior leadership and academic roles.
Her experience includes working in cancer, palliative and community healthcare, as well as serving as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kent, where she helped establish the Kent and Medway Medical School.
Alongside her executive leadership roles, Karen has supported a range of healthcare and community organisations through board and trustee positions. She is currently Vice-Chair and Trustee of North Devon Hospice and a Non-Executive Director of Health Innovation South West.
Karen joins us at an exciting time as we continue improving services for local people, supporting our workforce and strengthening partnerships across health and care.
Our Chair, Dr Martin Beaman, said: “I’m delighted Karen is joining us. She brings an impressive combination of healthcare, education and leadership experience, alongside a genuine commitment to public service. Her knowledge, insight and fresh perspective will make a valuable contribution as we continue improving services for the people and communities we serve.”
Non-executive directors play an important role in helping NHS organisations make good decisions, bringing independent experience, support and constructive challenge to discussions about the future of healthcare services.
Karen’s appointment further strengthens the breadth of experience available to our Board as we continue working to improve health and care for local communities.
“I’m very pleased to be joining the Board. The services we provide play an important role in the lives of local people and families, and I’m looking forward to supporting our work to improve care and services across Torbay and South Devon.”
Dr Karen Cox
Migraine awareness event highlights support available locally
For many people, migraine affects far more than just their health. It can have a significant impact on work, family life and everyday activities.
To mark this month’s Migraine Awareness Day, our specialist Headache Service spoke to people at Torbay Hospital to help raise awareness of the support and treatments available locally.
Our specialist Headache Service supports hundreds of people across Torbay and South Devon through dedicated clinics, specialist treatments and innovative digital tools that help people better understand and manage their condition.
Led by specialty doctor Kathryn Medcalf, the service was established in 2017 and helps people access specialist assessment, advice and treatment for migraine and other headache disorders.
Dr Medcalf said: “For far too long, migraine has been dismissed as ‘just a headache’ when in reality it is a complex neurological condition that can have a significant impact on people’s lives.
“We want people to know that support is available. While there isn’t currently a cure, there are effective treatments that can make a real difference and, for some people, can be life changing.”
Available treatments include Botox injections, greater occipital nerve injections, oral medications and specialist preventative therapies developed specifically for migraine treatment.
The team also supports patients who are waiting for appointments by providing access to information, guidance and self-management resources through the CONNECTPlus app.
Dr Medcalf added: “Many of our patients tell us that successful treatment helps them get back to doing the things they enjoy, whether that’s spending time with family, returning to work or simply feeling more able to enjoy everyday life.”
“Raising awareness is important because many people don’t realise support is available. We would encourage anyone affected by migraine to speak with our team and find out more.”
We’re celebrating national recognition for our colleagues
We’re incredibly proud that colleagues from across our services have been shortlisted in five categories at this year’s prestigious Nursing Times Workforce Awards.
The awards celebrate excellence in workforce development, education, leadership, recruitment and support for NHS staff, and we’re incredibly proud to see so many colleagues recognised nationally for the difference they make.
The shortlist reflects the many ways colleagues across our organisation are helping people begin, grow and flourish in careers in health and care.
Jess Piper, our Chief People Officer, says: “These nominations highlight the many ways colleagues are helping attract, support and develop the workforce our communities need now and in the future.
“We’re proud to see people and programmes recognised for helping colleagues build confidence, develop new skills and progress their careers.”
The winners will be announced in November.
Our finalists are:
- Best Recruitment Experience
- Grow Our Own: Healthcare Support Worker to Registered Nurse Pathway
- Internationally Educated Nurse of the Year
- Abdul-Manan Alhassan
- Gabriel Moroti
- Manager of the Year (Non-Clinical)
- Rachel Nolan
- Practice Educator of the Year
- Anitha Rego
- Danielle Swift
- Preceptorship Programme of the Year
- The 5 Thrive Framework
Click on images to view gallery
Outstanding experiences for our students
We’ve received a Certificate of Recognition from the University of Plymouth in recognition of the outstanding placement experiences provided to student nurses and midwives.
What makes this recognition particularly special is that the nominations came directly from students themselves.
Students praised the welcoming, supportive and inclusive environments they experienced across our hospital, community and maternity services, and the opportunities they were given to build confidence, learn new skills and develop professionally.
Many described feeling valued from the moment they arrived, with one student saying their manager: “has never made me feel like ‘just a student. Instead, she treats me as a valued member of the team.”
Another commented: “From my first day, they made me feel like a valued member of the team, welcoming me with kindness, respect and encouragement.”
Students also described how their placements helped shape future career choices and increased their confidence about working in healthcare.
Joe, our Chief Executive says: “What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it comes directly from students themselves. Their feedback speaks volumes about the kindness, encouragement and support they receive from colleagues across our services.
“Thank you to everyone who helps make our organisation such a positive place to learn.”
This recognition reflects the commitment of colleagues across our services who support students every day and help inspire the next generation of nurses and midwives.
Bereavement midwife recognised at national baby loss awards
We understand the deep trauma losing a baby has on a family and our bereavement midwives provide compassionate care to people when they need us the most.
Fay Martin attended the Sands Baby Loss Awards at Westminster on 08 September alongside seven other midwives and health professionals from across the country, after they were shortlisted for the Elaine Thorp Award for Bereavement Care 2026.
The award recognises healthcare professionals who provide exceptional support to bereaved families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Helen Wilson, a midwife at The Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital, was named the winner of the event at the ceremony, where Fay was presented with her finalist award by Clea Harmer, Sands’ Chief Executive and Andy MacNae, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Baby Loss.
Fay was nominated by bereaved mother Rachel, who wanted to recognise the compassion, kindness and support Fay provided during and after the loss of her twins.
A particularly poignant moment came when Rachel’s twins, were named during the reading of the nomination, which Fay described this as an incredibly moving tribute that helped ensure their memory was honoured and remembered.
Fay said: “I feel incredibly humbled and overwhelmed to have received this recognition. What means the most to me is that, while dealing with the loss of their twins, Rachel took the time to nominate me. Their kindness and generosity in doing that is something I will never forget.
“Building a trusting relationship with families at such a deeply difficult time is a privilege and it is an honour that I never take for granted.
“To know that the care I provided made a difference when it was needed most is very special. It was a huge honour to be shortlisted and invited to Westminster. I am grateful to the family for their trust and for sharing their experience.”
Nicola McMinn, our Chief Nurse, said: “We are incredibly proud of Fay and this well-deserved national recognition. Bereavement midwives provide compassionate, specialist care to families at some of the most heartbreaking and life-changing moments they will ever experience. The support they offer extends far beyond clinical care, helping families create precious memories, navigate difficult decisions and feel supported through their grief.
“Fay embodies the values of kindness, empathy and personalised care that are so important in bereavement services. The heartfelt nomination she received is a testament to the profound impact she has had on one family during an unimaginably difficult time, and we are privileged to have professionals like Fay work with us. We congratulate her on this special achievement.”
Around 45 families in Torbay and South Devon suffer the heartbreak of losing their baby before, during or shortly after birth. Bereavement midwives play a vital role in supporting families through pregnancy loss and baby loss, helping parents navigate complex decisions and emotions while ensuring they receive compassionate, personalised care.
Patrick’s incredible running challenge to support our youngest patients
We were delighted to welcome neonatal transport nurse Patrick Turton to our Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) earlier this month as he passed through Torbay during an extraordinary fundraising challenge supporting neonatal transport services across the South West.
Patrick, a lead nurse with the Southwest Neonatal Advice and Retrieval (SoNAR) service, set himself the remarkable challenge of running more than 380 miles in just 14 days, visiting neonatal and special care baby units across the region.
His route included a stop at our SCBU, one of the many services supported by SoNAR.
Known as the SoNAR Running Man Challenge, Patrick’s journey saw him run 25 TO 40 miles every day while raising money for Cots for Tots, the charity that supports neonatal care and transport services across the South West. The funds raised will help provide specialist equipment used to care for premature and critically ill babies.
For colleagues in SCBU, Patrick’s visit was an opportunity to celebrate both an incredible personal achievement and the vital role neonatal transport services play in ensuring babies receive the specialist care they need.
SoNAR provides specialist advice and transfers for premature and critically ill babies across 12 neonatal and special care baby units throughout the South West. The service helps ensure babies can access the right care as quickly as possible and supports families by helping babies return closer to home when they are well enough.
Patrick’s challenge was inspired by the babies, families and colleagues he works with every day. By connecting neonatal units across the region on foot, he hoped to raise awareness of neonatal transport services while generating much-needed funding to support future care.
We’d like to say a huge thank you to Patrick for his dedication, determination and commitment to improving care for some of our most vulnerable patients.
Patrick has already raised more than £7,000. Donations can still be made via his Just Giving page.
Lottery winner Lucy creates lasting legacy for patients at Cheetham Hill
Former colleague Lucy Waring returned to Torbay Hospital this month for a special reunion with colleagues on Cheetham Hill, the ward where she spent the final years of her 27-year nursing career.
Lucy and her husband Jon, who won £3.9 million on the National Lottery Lotto jackpot in 2025, were joined by fellow lottery winners to help transform and decorate the ward’s communal space, creating an even warmer and more welcoming environment for patients.
The visit was particularly meaningful for Lucy, who left us last year following her lottery win. Returning to Cheetham Hill gave her the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and spend time in a place that remains close to her heart.
As part of their generosity, Lucy and Jon also donated a piano to the ward, which is already helping to create moments of joy, comfort and connection for patients living with dementia, while also supporting wellbeing and unlocking cherished memories.
Speaking about the visit, Lucy said the ward would always hold a special place in her heart and that she was proud to give something back to the patients and colleagues who meant so much throughout her career.
We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to Lucy and Jon for their kindness and generosity. Their support has created a lasting legacy that will benefit patients, families and colleagues for years to come.
A huge thank you also goes to colleagues on Cheetham Hill and our Estates team, whose enthusiasm and hard work helped make the project such a success.
Stephen Heath, our Care Group Director of Nursing, said: “We’re delighted Lucy and Jon chose Cheetham Hill. The artwork and facilities have created an even more welcoming space for patients, families and colleagues to spend time together, listen to music, play games and support recovery.”
It was a wonderful day filled with generosity, gratitude and community spirit, and a reminder of the lasting connections people build throughout their careers.
Socking it to Sepsis in Torbay and South Devon
Bright socks, sock-themed biscuits and plenty of learning were on display across Torbay and South Devon as colleagues came together to mark Sepsis Awareness Day.
From wards and departments at Torbay Hospital to teams at Newton Abbot, Dawlish, Totnes and Brixham hospitals, colleagues took the opportunity to raise awareness of sepsis and the importance of recognising the signs early.
At Totnes Hospital, colleagues even came in on their day off to run a sepsis awareness quiz, helping make learning fun, engaging and memorable.
The event highlighted the passion and commitment colleagues across our services have for improving awareness and helping people recognise when urgent medical help may be needed.
Thank you to everyone who pulled on their brightest socks, shared learning and helped raise awareness.
Click on images to view gallery
Symptoms of sepsis in babies and children include
- difficulty breathing or breathing very fast
- having a fit (seizure)
- a high or low temperature – feeling very hot or cold when you touch them
- blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on black or brown skin this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
- a rash that does not fade when you press it – this type of rash is rare in sepsis, but it may be a symptom of meningitis
- being sleepier than normal or difficult to wake
- not peeing in the last 12 hours (for babies and children younger than five years) or not peeing all day (for children five years and older), you can check a baby’s nappy to see if it’s dry
Symptoms of sepsis in adults include:
- confusion or slurred speech
- uncontrollable shivering
- muscle pain
- difficulty breathing
- blue, pale, grey or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on black or brown skin this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
- a high or low temperature – a high temperature is less common in older adults
- not peeing all day or peeing very little in the past 18 hours
Babies and children younger than five years may also not be interested in feeding or they may keep being sick (vomiting).
Get immediate medical help if you or your child are unwell and you think there’s something seriously wrong.
Call 999 or go to the emergency department if:
A baby or child younger than five years:
- is breathing very fast or having difficulty breathing – they may make grunting noises or their tummy may be sucking under their ribcage when they breathe
- has blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
- has a rash that does not fade when you press it
- has a very high temperature – 38C or more in babies under 3 months old, or 39C or more in babies 3 to 6 months old
- has a very low temperature – less than 36C, or feels cold to the touch or is shivery
- has a weak, high-pitched or continuous cry
- is not responding like they normally do, is not feeding, is difficult to wake or is more sleepy than usual
- has not had a pee for the last 12 hours
- has symptoms you’re worried might be sepsis
An adult or child aged five years or older:
- is breathing very fast
- is confused, has slurred speech, or is not making sense
- has blue, pale or blotchy skin – on black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
- has a very high or very low temperature, feels hot or cold to the touch, or is shivery
- has a rash that does not fade when you press it
- has symptoms you’re worried might be sepsis
You can read more about the signs and symptoms of sepsis at Sepsis – NHS
Is your child heading to university? Make sure they’re protected against meningitis
For many families, September marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as young people prepare to leave home and start university.
Alongside packing boxes, organising accommodation and buying essentials, there’s one important thing that shouldn’t be overlooked: protection against meningitis.
Health experts are encouraging school leavers and first-year university students to take up the offer of the MenB vaccine before starting term.
Young people beginning university are at increased risk because of close contact with large groups of people, particularly in halls of residence and shared accommodation.
Although uncommon, meningococcal disease can develop quickly and can be life threatening.
The good news is that vaccination provides effective protection.
What parents and carers can do if their child is starting uni this year:
- Encourage them to receive both doses of the MenB vaccine if eligible.
- Check they have received the MenACWY vaccine.
- Help them understand the signs and symptoms of meningitis and when to seek urgent medical help.
A simple conversation now could help protect them during one of the most exciting periods of their lives.
Small steps can help children stay well this school year
As children and young people return to classrooms across Devon, our NHS is sharing simple advice to help families make a healthy start to the new school year.
The return to school brings new routines, busy schedules and plenty of opportunities to reconnect with friends. It can also bring the usual coughs, colds and childhood illnesses that tend to circulate during the autumn term.
Simple measures such as good handwashing, healthy sleep routines and keeping vaccinations up to date can all help children stay healthy.
Parents and carers are also being reminded that children should stay home if they have a high temperature and return to school once they feel better and their fever has gone.
Most common coughs and colds can be managed at home with rest, fluids and appropriate medication where needed.
By taking a few simple steps, families can help children stay healthy, build resilience and make the most of the school year ahead.
Could you be caring for someone without realising it?
Every day across Torbay and South Devon, thousands of people help look after someone they care about. That might mean helping with shopping, collecting prescriptions, attending appointments, preparing meals, managing medication or simply being there to offer emotional support.
Many people don’t think of themselves as carers, even though supporting a family member, friend or neighbour is a significant part of their everyday lives.
Recognising that role is important because support is available, and accessing help early can make a real difference.
The Spot a Carer campaign aims to help people identify when they may be acting as a carer and connect them to the practical advice, guidance and support available across Devon.
Support includes online tools and resources through Bridgit, alongside local carers’ services that can offer information, advice and assistance tailored to individual circumstances.
If you’re helping to care for someone, or know somebody who is, support is available.
Caring for Carers (Plymouth)
01752 201890
Torbay Carers Service
01803 666620
Devon Carers
03456 434435
You can also find information and support online at carers.bridgit.care/devon
One call can connect you to support
Sometimes finding the right support can feel overwhelming. That’s where the Torbay Community Helpline can help.
Since launching in 2020, the service has supported thousands of local people by providing information, advice and practical help when they need it most.
The helpline is available to all Torbay residents, providing a friendly listening ear and helping people access a wide range of local support services.
Depending on individual circumstances, the team may help connect people with food banks, wellbeing services, mental health support, community groups, befriending schemes, social care services and other community organisations.
The service also supports people who may be finding everyday tasks difficult. This can include help with accessing shopping, collecting prescriptions, arranging support following a hospital stay or finding local services that can assist with practical challenges.
More recently, the Helpline has begun working more closely with teams at Torbay Hospital, helping patients and their families understand what support may be available once they return home.
Whether somebody needs practical help, information, reassurance or simply guidance on where to turn next, the team is there to help.
The helpline is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 1pm and 3pm to 6pm.
Call 01803 446022.
Because sometimes it only takes one call to access the support you need.
Devon Dementia Conference
People from across Devon will come together at the Devon Dementia Conference 2026 for a day dedicated to learning, sharing experiences and exploring new ways to support people living with dementia and their carers.
The conference will welcome professionals from health and social care, researchers, policy-makers, people with lived experience of dementia, and those who support family members and friends affected by the condition.
The event will feature a programme of expert speakers, including Professor Sube Banerjee and Dr Carol Sargent, who will share their latest insights, research and expertise. Interactive sessions will focus on the experiences of carers, helping to identify opportunities to improve support, wellbeing, connections and outcomes.
Attendees will also enjoy a special performance from a Dementia Choir and have opportunities to network over lunch and refreshments. Up to 230 delegates are expected to attend in person, with the conference also being live-streamed to audiences across Devon and beyond.
The Devon Dementia Conference 2026 takes place on Friday 02 October 2026, from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Tickets cost £49.46. You can book tickets on Eventbrite.
New parkrun coming to Cockington Country Park
A new weekly parkrun is set to bring even more opportunities for people to get active, meet new people and enjoy the outdoors in Torquay.
Plans are underway for a free Saturday morning 5k parkrun at Cockington Country Park, creating a welcoming community event within walking distance of around 10,000 local residents.
Whether you’re taking your first steps into physical activity, returning to exercise, aiming for a personal best or simply looking for a reason to get outside on a Saturday morning, parkrun is designed to be inclusive and accessible for everyone. You can walk, jog or run at your own pace, and there’s never any pressure to finish in a particular time. A dedicated Tail Walker ensures nobody is ever left behind.
The route will take in Cockington’s beautiful natural surroundings, combining woodland paths with tarmac and gravel trails to create a scenic and enjoyable course.
Dogs on short handheld leads will also be welcome, in line with parkrun guidance.
After the event, participants will be encouraged to support local cafés and businesses, helping create a positive new community tradition. The new event will build on the success of Torbay Velopark parkrun in Paignton, which has become a hugely popular part of community life over the last decade. Keep an eye on the parkrun website for updates.
Your voice matters: join us for our Annual Members’ Meeting
Join us for an afternoon of conversation, connection and community at our Annual Members’ Meeting and Community Health and Wellbeing Event next week.
Taking place on Wednesday 30 September at Paignton Library, the free event will bring together local health and care teams, community organisations and residents to share ideas, discover local support and talk about what matters most to the people we serve.
Running from 2pm to 4pm, the event will showcase a wide range of health, wellbeing and support services available across Torbay and South Devon. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet local teams, access advice and information, learn more about staying healthy and independent, and discover support available within their communities.
Our Annual Members’ Meeting will take place from 3pm to 3.45pm and offers an opportunity to hear about our achievements, challenges and future plans.
Alongside the event, we’ll also be hosting neighbourhood listening sessions throughout the day. These small group conversations will help us better understand people’s experiences of health, care and community support, and give local people an opportunity to share their views and help shape future improvements.
We’re keen to hear from as many voices as possible. If you have friends, family members, neighbours, carers or community contacts with an interest in local health and wellbeing services, we’d love them to get involved. To find out more or register your interest for one of our listening events, visit tsdft.uk/amm
Thank you, Pat
After a remarkable career spanning almost 50 years, Pat Harris, Chief Executive of Engaging Communities South West (ECSW) and Strategic Lead for Healthwatch in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay, has retired.
Throughout her career with Torbay Hospital, Age UK Torbay, Healthwatch and Engaging Communities South West, Pat has been a passionate advocate for patients, carers and local communities.
Her work has helped strengthen partnerships across Torbay and Devon, ensuring local voices continue to influence health and care services.
We’d like to thank Pat for her dedication, commitment and the difference she has made to so many people over the years.
We wish her a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.
Looking ahead
Following Pat’s retirement, Sarah Lonton will become Strategic Lead for Healthwatch in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay, while Claire Bithell has been appointed Chief Officer of Engaging Communities South West.
Future of Healthwatch
Healthwatch in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay remains open, independent and fully operational, with current arrangements remaining in place until at least 31 March 2027.
Whatever the future national position, local partners remain committed to ensuring community voices and lived experiences continue to help shape health and care services across Devon.
Could you spot the signs of skin cancer?
South Devon has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the UK, making it more important than ever to know how to protect your skin and recognise the signs that shouldn’t be ignored.
Join us for our next Medicine for Members event, where Dr Rosie Davis, Consultant Dermatologist, will share expert advice on skin cancer prevention, sensible sun protection, what to look out for on your skin, and how different skin cancers are diagnosed and treated.
The free talk will also cover common skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and rosacea, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions.
- Tuesday 20 October
- 5pm
- TREC, Torbay Hospital
Everyone is welcome, whether or not you’re a Foundation Trust member.
To reserve your place or find out more, email foundationtrust.tsdft@nhs.net or call 01803 655406.
Become a member
Would you like to find out more about what we do?
Would you like to have a say in the future development of services we provide?
Why not become a member?
Find out more on our website: Become a member.
Read our previous Healthy Futures editions.
