How people feel about living in Parkwood, Hempstead and Wigmore

Healthwatch Medway spoke with 54 residents from Parkwood, Hempstead and Wigmore to understand how their local area affects their health and wellbeing. The report highlights both positive and negative aspects of life in these neighbourhoods, along with residents’ ideas for improving local wellbeing.

Positive aspects of living in the area

Residents most frequently praised the strong sense of community, with many describing friendly neighbours and a village-like atmosphere. Local amenities such as shops, medical facilities, cafes and schools were also valued, and people appreciated the convenience of having essential services close by. Green spaces and nature were highlighted as important, along with feelings of safety, good transport links, and the general quietness of the neighbourhoods. Smaller numbers also mentioned local entertainment options, affordability, and cleanliness.

Positive impacts on residents’ wellbeing

Many residents said their area positively affects their daily lives by making activities easier and more convenient. People also reported improved social connection, feelings of safety, emotional wellbeing, and better mental health due to knowing their neighbours and being able to get around comfortably. A few mentioned benefits for sleep and physical health.

Negative aspects of living in the area

Anti‑social behaviour—particularly involving young people on bikes and e‑scooters—was the most common concern. Residents also highlighted frustrations with ongoing building works, increasing housing development, limited parking, poor road conditions, traffic, and issues with local health services. Additional concerns included lack of entertainment for teenagers, litter, aspects of community behaviour, reduced amenities, environmental neglect, limited police presence, declining public transport reliability, and occasional noise.

Negative impacts on residents’ wellbeing

These problems contributed to emotional stress, frustration and worry among residents. People also described feeling unsafe or inconvenienced, needing to travel further for services, and experiencing disrupted routines, reduced social opportunities or increased anxiety.

What health and wellbeing mean to residents

When asked what comes to mind regarding health and wellbeing, residents most commonly mentioned health services, followed by physical health, diet, mental health and socialising. Some also noted the importance of green spaces, fresh air, peace, and the affordability of basic necessities.

What would help improve their health and wellbeing

The most common suggestion was improving health services—particularly hospital care, GP access and community care. Other ideas included better cycling infrastructure, resolving practical issues such as disabled badge processes, improving the cleanliness of public areas, increasing opportunities for exercise, offering more amenities and entertainment, and making leisure facilities more affordable.

How residents find local information

Most residents rely on online sources, especially Facebook groups, to learn about local services and events. Word of mouth, newsletters such as Medway Matters, local services, TV news, noticeboards and radio were also mentioned.

What could help improve wellbeing in the community

Residents suggested major improvements to healthcare access and infrastructure, such as expanding the hospital and making GP services more available. They also recommended better cycling paths, reopening community hubs like the local pub, increased police presence, more youth facilities, improved upkeep of public spaces, a wider range of shops, road repairs, better public transport, and limiting further development in the area.

Demographic overview

Respondents were mostly aged 65–74, predominantly female and White British. A quarter reported having a disability, and just under two‑fifths had a long‑term health condition. Most were retired, and the majority never struggled to pay for basic necessities.