What you told us : April to June 2026

Healthwatch Lambeth gathered feedback from 210 residents between April and June 2026, including people with learning disabilities, unpaid carers, people living with dementia, Black communities, refugees and asylum seekers, and people with experience of mental health difficulties. The majority of feedback related to GP services, hospital care and mental health services, with the most common issues being booking GP appointments, staff attitudes and communication, and waiting for hospital treatment. 

Residents shared mixed experiences of GP services. Many praised good-quality care, speedy responses and effective digital systems, but others described difficulties navigating online appointment systems, confusing communications and challenges speaking directly to someone about their health concerns. Some people felt reception staff acted as barriers to care, while others reported improvements in staff attitudes and responsiveness. Concerns were also raised about feeling dismissed, not listened to, or having to repeatedly pursue follow-up care and medication. 

Long waits for hospital referrals and treatment were a significant concern. Feedback included delays of many months for cardiology, oncology and gynaecology appointments, repeated cancellations and poor communication about referrals and treatment plans. Some residents reported distress caused by postponed procedures, cancelled placements and a lack of updates about referrals or eligibility for services. 

The report also highlighted health inequalities experienced by specific communities. People with learning disabilities described short GP appointments, difficulties navigating hospitals and a lack of disability awareness among clinicians. Black residents reported experiences of racial bias, poor communication and a lack of culturally informed mental health care. Other concerns included delays in social care adaptations, barriers to patient transport, respect for medication choices within mental health services and accessing gender-affirming care for trans residents. Healthwatch shared this feedback with commissioners and providers, while also helping residents access advice, advocacy and support services.