What people in Sandwell say about getting mental health support

Healthwatch Sandwell explored local people’s experiences of accessing community mental health support through surveys, community engagement and focus groups. Overall, the findings showed that while many people were aware of support available through GPs and community organisations, awareness of other services such as bereavement support, peer support, wellbeing services and counselling was much lower. People often struggled to understand what support was available and how to access it. 

Accessing support was a common challenge. Long waiting times were the most frequently reported problem, alongside confusion about referral routes, a lack of clear information and difficulties navigating services. Many people felt their mental health concerns were not taken seriously until they reached crisis point. Experiences were mixed, with some reporting positive support, particularly from bereavement and specialist services, while others felt they were offered medication without being told about wider support options. Many wanted more personalised, one-to-one support rather than group-based interventions. 

People also identified wider barriers including transport difficulties, digital exclusion, language and cultural issues, stigma and restrictive eligibility criteria. Focus group participants highlighted the value of community organisations, peer support, volunteering opportunities, Link Workers and social connections in supporting mental wellbeing. However, they felt more needed to be done to promote services, improve access and provide support earlier. 

Healthwatch concluded that Sandwell has a broad range of mental health services, but many residents still struggle to find, access and navigate them. Recommendations included improving awareness and signposting, reducing waiting times, providing earlier intervention, increasing one-to-one support, improving accessibility for diverse communities, strengthening community-based support and ensuring services are designed around the needs and experiences of people using them rather than around organisational processes.