FERMANAGH — The Western Health and Social Care Trust launched a public engagement programme in June 2026 to gather input on future health and care services in Fermanagh and West Tyrone. The programme runs until September 2026.

The initiative follows more than eight months of preparatory work. Between October 2025 and June 2026, the Trust held more than 80 engagement meetings, briefings, and information sessions with staff, trade unions, elected representatives, local councils, the Department of Health, the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, the Public Health Agency, the Patient and Client Council, and community and voluntary organisations.

Karen Hargan, Chief Executive of the Western Health and Social Care Trust, said: "This is about developing a clear, long-term Vision for health and care services in Fermanagh and West Tyrone, shaped by the people who use our services, deliver our care and support our communities every day." She added: "Since October last year, we have undertaken an extensive programme of preparatory engagement with staff, elected representatives, statutory organisations, community groups and key stakeholders." Hargan continued: "That work has helped inform how we approach this next phase and ensure the engagement process is open, inclusive and accessible." She said: "We are now inviting everyone with an interest in the future of health and care services across Fermanagh and West Tyrone to have their say." Hargan also stated: "We want to understand what matters most to local people, what is working well and where they believe change is needed."

The Vision will consider the future of health and care services across the region, including the South West Acute Hospital. The Trust expanded its online information hub to provide details on the programme, the current position regarding Emergency General Surgery, and services delivered by the Trust. The Trust stated the current exercise is not a formal public consultation but is intended to gather views, experiences, and ideas from staff, patients, carers, local communities, and partner organisations before the Vision is developed further.

Engagement events will take place at community venues, hospitals, GP practices, and public spaces across Fermanagh and West Tyrone during the summer and autumn. Online webinars will also be held to allow people to ask questions and contribute to the discussion.