The role and impact of Healthwatch Brighton and Hove during the coronavirus pandemic: activity report covering January to April 2020

Healthwatch Brighton and Hove’s COVID-19 performance report summarised its work between January and April 2020 in response to the pandemic. The organisation rapidly adapted its activities, becoming a key source of information, advice and support for local residents. It published more than 24 public updates, developed dedicated guidance on topics such as GP access, dentistry, prescriptions and mental health, and established a comprehensive COVID-19 information hub. Healthwatch also worked closely with the council, Clinical Commissioning Group and local NHS organisations to raise patient concerns and share intelligence from the community. 

A major focus of the organisation’s work was improving access to health and care services during the pandemic. Healthwatch raised concerns about access to GP services for deaf people, the establishment of urgent dental centres, access to Personal Protective Equipment for carers, outpatient services, cancer care and support for people receiving direct payments. It also highlighted accessibility issues, including the need for information in Easy Read, translated formats and British Sign Language. Many of these concerns resulted in new guidance, service changes or clearer information being provided by local organisations. 

Healthwatch also established the Hospital Discharge Wellbeing Project, in which trained volunteers contacted people shortly after discharge from hospital to check on their wellbeing and signpost them to additional support. By the end of April 2020, 91 patients had been contacted, with around a third requiring additional help or referral to community services. The project aimed to provide reassurance, identify unmet needs and support people adjusting to life at home following discharge. 

The report concluded that collaboration between Healthwatch, local NHS organisations, the council and voluntary sector partners had helped ensure residents continued to receive support during an exceptionally challenging period. Healthwatch received positive feedback from the public, health leaders and community organisations for its role in sharing information, escalating concerns and supporting vulnerable people throughout the early stages of the pandemic.