Agenda item

4.1

Judy Robinson gave a verbal update from Healthwatch. She explained that this was an update for the Board following engagement carried out with people in Sheffield over the last few months. She updated the committee on three main issues.

4.2

Firstly, the Board heard that a project on ‘long Covid’ was being carried out in conjunction with colleagues at Voluntary Action Sheffield. The primary focus of this project was on those on low incomes or in marginalised communities. This research not yet been finalised, but the feedback given so far had given an indication of experiences, and included issues such as: difficulty in accessing GP’s and interpreters, concerns about not being heard, lack of information in the correct format and lack of trust in the quality of care for Black, Ethnic and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities. It was advised that further findings would be reported in due course, with the aim of improving support.

4.3

Secondly, it was noted that mental health was always a priority across all age ranges, and feedback included: concern about waiting times, particularly for recovery services, allocation of support worker that then move on, and movement to the bottom of the waiting list if an appointment did not take place. There were significant workforce challenges as well as challenges around communication, which residents did not necessarily understand.

4.4

The third issue reported was around prevention work being carried out within communities to support people to stay happy, healthy and well. Some communities had felt that statutory services did meet their needs, and did not always take into account their cultural, spiritual and faith needs. Lack of ‘rounded’ support had been noted, such as recreational/community support to tackle loneliness and isolation.

4.5

The Board thanked Ms Robinson for the update.