News and reports

The Healthwatch Sandwell report “The hidden impact of Covid-19 on carers” reflects the experiences of being a carer in Sandwell during the Covid-19 pandemic and highlights the hidden impacts on carers health and wellbeing 18 months on from the outbreak of the pandemic.

This project was undertaken by HWS on behalf of the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The aim of the project was to hear from seldom heard communities about what they know about what they can expect from:
➢ Health and social care services in Sandwell
➢ CQC

Healthwatch Sandwell often hears from patients saying that it is very difficult to get an appointment at a GP Surgery.

During the period April to June 2021, Healthwatch Sandwell has collated patient experiences. These are sourced from phone contact with residents/patients, focus groups we facilitate, focus groups we attend, local online forums, and service user groups and service user experiences/feedback via our web-based ‘Feedback Centre’.

A priority that was identified is mental health and well-being services. A survey conducted by HWS in February 2020 found that 60 % of respondents indicated that accessing and the quality of mental health and well-being services were a priority area for them.

Throughout the year a total of 9 Youth Healthwatch volunteers have been recruited and attending regular meetings.

Minutes of Healthwatch Sandwell Advisory Board
4 May 2021, 2021

Healthwatch Sandwell Advisory Board
4 May 2021 2021
Public Board Meeting Agenda

This report looks at the patient experience of using digital technology in primary care services in Sandwell. In 2019 Sandwell ranked as the 12th most deprived local authority area nationally for indices of multiple deprivations.

During the period January to March 2021, Healthwatch Sandwell has collated patient experiences. These are sourced from: phone contact with residents/patients, focus groups we facilitate, focus groups we attend, local online forums and service user groups. In addition, we have received service user experiences/feedback via our web-based ‘Feedback Centre’ and since its inception in July 2019 we have received over 274 experiences/comments shared across NHS and Social Care Services.

Healthwatch Sandwell Advisory Board Meeting Minutes
Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting 27th January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every walk of life. HWS had spoken to many of adults (aged 18+) who have had their support services disrupted or paused during the pandemic.