Observations of Patient Care at Eastbourne District General Hospital

In September 2026, Healthwatch East Sussex carried out eight observational visits to two wards at Eastbourne District General Hospital. The visits explored patients’ experiences of care, communication, food and drink, discharge arrangements and the ward environment. Healthwatch spoke with around 25 patients and family members, alongside a range of hospital staff.

Patients were overwhelmingly positive about the care they received and described staff as caring, supportive and attentive. Healthwatch observed good teamwork, positive staff-patient interactions and strong support at mealtimes. However, the report identified concerns about discharge delays, patients remaining in hospital while waiting for more appropriate placements, and inconsistencies in how information about diagnosis, treatment and discharge was shared. Recommendations focused on improving communication, discharge planning, patient dignity and operational processes. East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust welcomed the findings and outlined actions it would take in response.