What care and support did Birmingham citizens need during the Covid-19 lockdown?

Healthwatch Birmingham reports on the engagement and a survey that they did during the Covid-19 pandemic, to identify where help was needed. In total they spoke to 974 people during the period April to June 2020.

They identified that support was needed for people caring for adults without any help or PPE.  Healthwatch Birmingham shared this information with the City Council, who responded with details of how carers could contact them for support or PPE.

People told them that they were unable to get their medication during lockdown.  Healthwatch Birmingham worked with the local pharmaceutical committee on the best course of action for people in these circumstances.

People praised individual services, particularly GP surgeries and pharmacies working well together to support their patients.

The research also identified what needs to change if there is another lockdown, including better access to supplies of healthy food, everyone eligible for a shielding letter getting one, improved access to medication, treatment and appointments, improved communication about access to services, improved hospital discharge procedures and emotional support.

The report contains the findings from a focus group with the local African-Caribbean community.  Issues discussed included good access to services for vulnerable and elderly African-Caribbean community; addressing the impact of Covid-19 on minority ethnic communities and co-morbidities.

The report ends with a statement of how Healthwatch Birmingham intends to support residents and help improve services over the next couple of months.