Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust - Waiting Well Report

During several public engagement sessions conducted by Healthwatch Rotherham, concerns were raised about hospital referral waiting times. A number of individuals reported experiencing delays of several weeks for their referrals, with some expressing that they felt abandoned by the NHS during this period of uncertainty. In response to these concerns, Healthwatch Rotherham launched a survey to gather data on patients' experiences of "waiting well" and to explore whether this approach had been recommended or supported by their healthcare professionals.

The Healthwatch Rotherham Waiting Well Report highlights serious concerns about how patients are supported while waiting for treatment at Rotherham Hospital. From a wellbeing perspective, the findings reveal that many patients feel anxious, forgotten, and unsupported, which can have a direct impact on their physical and emotional health.

Waiting for treatment is an unavoidable reality for many patients, but how patients are supported during that time profoundly affects their wellbeing, recovery outcomes, and trust in the healthcare system.

The absence of communication or updates causes stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, leading to a decline in mental health and trust in the NHS.

Most patients (over 90%) reported receiving no information or guidance on how to look after themselves while waiting for treatment. Without advice on managing symptoms, staying active, or preventing deterioration, patients risk poorer outcomes and longer recoveries once treatment begins. This lack of support contradicts the purpose of the “Waiting Well” initiative, which aims to help patients remain healthy and prepared.

The lack of awareness (96% unaware of the “Waiting Well” programme) and inconsistent communication erodes patient confidence. Patients often don’t know who to contact, how long they will wait, or what to do if their condition worsens. This uncertainty leads to frustration and disengagement from healthcare advice