Women’s health group could get formal voice on Rotherham services
Women could be given a stronger voice in decisions about Rotherham’s health services amid concerns that patients are not always listened to.
Rotherham Women’s Health Network could be offered a formal place on the council committee responsible for scrutinising local healthcare.
The proposal follows evidence of significant inequalities affecting women, including declining healthy life expectancy, long waits for routine services and variations in the quality of referrals.
Concerns have also been raised that women are not always listened to within the health system.
If approved, a representative from the network would join Rotherham Council’s health select commission as a non-voting member.
They would be able to attend meetings, question health bosses and offer views on proposals, but would not take part in formal votes.
The voluntary network was established in August 2025 and brings together representatives from the council, NHS services and voluntary and community organisations.
Its members have already contributed to council reviews examining access to contraception and menopause support.
A council report said the arrangement would bring “ongoing expertise, lived experience and challenge” into the scrutiny process.
The representative would not be expected to attend every meeting but could take part whenever an issue relevant to women’s health appeared on the agenda.
The health select commission unanimously backed the proposal in July, with no concerns raised during earlier discussions.
Rotherham Council’s overview and scrutiny management board will be asked to approve the appointment on September 8.
If agreed, it will take effect immediately and remain in place until the commission decides it is no longer needed.