Local Healthwatch will replace LINKs and be the local consumer champion for patients, service users and the public. The changeover was originally planned for Ocotber 2012 but has been delayed.

The new date for establishing Local Healthwatch in April 2013 will support the need to align this closer to the establishment of other new bodies such as the health and well being boards.

The extension will also support preparations for implementation and enable Healthwatch England (which will be established in October 2012) to provide the leadership and support to Local Healthwatch organisations.

Read the Department of Health's press release here:
http://mediacentre.dh.gov.uk/2012/01/03/patient-champions-receive-funding-boost/

Read a letter detailing the changes from David Behan Director General for Social Care, Local Government and Care Partnerships here;
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Lettersandcirculars/Dearcolleagueletters/DH_132015