June - July 2026 - what have we been hearing?

Healthwatch Sheffield gathered feedback from 368 people about their experiences of health and social care services. While many people reported positive experiences, particularly regarding the quality of care provided by GP practices, hospitals, children's services and dentists, the most common concerns related to difficulties accessing GP appointments, long hospital waiting times, access to mental health support and challenges finding NHS dental care. 

Feedback about GP services focused heavily on access issues. Patients described difficulties getting through on the telephone, problems using online booking and triage systems, and long waits for appointments. Some people said they lacked the confidence or skills to use digital systems, making it harder to access care. Concerns were also raised about reductions in community support services such as Friends of Foundry drop-in sessions, which people valued for social contact and wellbeing support.

Hospital feedback was mixed. Many patients praised the quality of treatment and staff across a range of services, including Audiology and Sexual Health. However, concerns were raised about communication, long waits for appointments and treatment, cleanliness, staffing pressures, and food quality. Mental health feedback highlighted difficulties accessing timely and appropriate support, with some people reporting long waits and poor experiences when seeking crisis care. Children's Hospital feedback was largely positive, particularly regarding staff communication and support for young patients, although waiting times remained a concern.

NHS dentistry continued to be a significant issue, with many people struggling to find practices accepting new NHS patients or access appointments with their regular dentist. Healthwatch also reported responses from Sheffield Teaching Hospitals and Sheffield Health and Social Care Partnership, outlining actions being taken to improve waiting times, communication, accessibility, hearing aid battery provision, LGBTQ+ inclusivity and mental health services.