How does it feel for me: Abdul's summary report

Healthwatch Leeds follows the health and care journey of Abdul Rahman Jalloh, a retired education officer from Sierra Leone living in Leeds, who experienced a stroke in early 2024 and was later diagnosed with prostate cancer. His story forms part of the wider How does it feel for me? programme, which gathers real-time experiences of people navigating multiple health and care services in Leeds. Abdul received care across several settings, including Leeds General Infirmary, Chapel Allerton Rehabilitation Centre, St James’s Hospital and his GP practice.

The report highlights several core themes that emerged from Abdul’s experiences:

1. Communication

Abdul experienced both excellent and poor communication. Clear, compassionate explanations from staff reduced his anxiety, particularly during his cancer diagnosis. He valued ongoing contact from the Stroke Group. However, he also faced confusion when appointment information was unclear, received conflicting messages through different channels, and found himself excluded from aspects of his care. He suggested that simple reminders or clearer coordination—particularly through his GP—would have prevented unnecessary stress.

2. Coordination

Abdul’s care involved many services, and good coordination made a significant difference, such as when the same doctor followed him across hospital and rehabilitation settings. However, medication management was complex, and obtaining prescriptions required physically demanding steps. Abdul emphasised the need for simplified repeat prescription processes and options for delivery, which would reduce anxiety and physical strain.

3. Compassion

Abdul deeply valued staff members who respected his cultural and religious needs. Acts of empathy—such as adapting care to his prayer requirements or offering gentle encouragement during rehabilitation—helped him build trust and regain confidence. He felt recognised as a whole person rather than simply a patient.

4. Support for Carers

Abdul’s wife became his primary carer, taking on physically and emotionally demanding responsibilities without much formal support. The financial strain and the lack of respite or structured assistance affected both of them. Abdul emphasised the importance of involving carers in communication, as they often manage medication and daily care tasks.

5. Financial Barriers

Financial pressures affected Abdul’s health and wellbeing. He described difficulty affording heating, rising travel costs for appointments, and the impact of losing some benefits. He felt that clearer information about available financial support would have eased stress during his recovery.

6. Cultural and Religious Awareness

The report shows that cultural understanding was essential to Abdul’s experience. Staff who adapted personal care, diet or prayer arrangements made him feel respected and safe. He noted that some staff—particularly less experienced colleagues—would benefit from further training on cultural diversity.

Overall Reflections

Despite challenges, Abdul expressed deep gratitude for the care he received across services. He praised staff for their commitment and the positive impact they had on both his physical and emotional recovery.

How the report should be used

Health and care organisations in Leeds are encouraged to use the insights from Abdul’s journey to improve service quality, strengthen person-centred care, and inform decision-making across the Leeds Health and Care Partnership.

Questions for services

The report includes reflective questions for system leaders and frontline teams on improving communication, coordination, carer involvement, cultural competence and support with practical or financial issues.