1. News -

    HWS were hearing from local people about how Covid -19 was affecting their mental health, so decided to conduct a study into access to mental health and well-being services in Sandwell during COVID - 19 pandemic.
  2. Advice and Information -

    Waiting for planned medical care or surgery can be a frustrating time. That’s why it’s so important that while you wait, you get regular, clear and accessible updates so that you can plan your next steps.
  3. Advice and Information -

    Your mental wellness is as important as your physical health but seeking help can be daunting. Here's what to expect when you seek support for your mental health.
  4. Advice and Information -

    Do you or a loved one need help with social care? Read the article below and find out answers to key questions about who can access adult social care and how to pay for it.
  5. Report -

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

    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.
  7. Report -

    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.
  8. Report -

    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.
  9. Report -

    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.
  10. Report -

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

    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’.
  12. Report -

    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
  13. Report -

    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.
  14. Report -

    Our Healthwatch activities involve signposting the public to relevant support agencies to assist them with their concerns.
  15. Advice and Information -

    Healthwatch Sandwell Advisory Board
    27 January 2021 – Virtual Microsoft Teams
    Public Board Meeting Agenda
  16. Report -

    Healthwatch Sandwell Advisory Board Meeting Minutes
    Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting 27th January 2021
  17. Report -

    Healthwatch Sandwell Advisory Board
    4 May 2021 2021
    Public Board Meeting Agenda
  18. Report -

    Minutes of Healthwatch Sandwell Advisory Board
    4 May 2021, 2021
  19. Report -

    HWS proposed to engage with people with Sickle Cell (an inherited blood disorder, which predominantly affects people of African and African Caribbean ethnicity).
  20. Advice and Information -

    Do you struggle to speak to your doctor about your medical concerns? You’re not alone. Take a look at our top tips to make the most out of your GP appointment.