Access to and experience of GP practices in Hackney by the Charedi Jewish community

Healthwatch Hackney undertook research on the experiences of the Charedi Jewish community in accessing GP services in Hackney. They spoke to 35 local residents to understand whether people used NHS GP practices, private doctors or both, and what influenced those choices. Most respondents used both NHS and private services, while 14% relied solely on private doctors and 26% used only NHS GP practices. 

The research found that convenience, access and trust were major factors influencing healthcare choices. People who used private doctors highlighted easier access to appointments, longer consultations, more convenient appointment times and greater privacy. Many also valued doctors who understood cultural and religious needs, including modesty requirements and family circumstances. Those using both NHS and private services often did so to maximise their chances of obtaining prompt care and to access specialist services or second opinions when needed. 

Among people using NHS GP services, most reported positive experiences with clinical staff and felt their cultural and religious needs were understood. However, concerns were raised about difficulties booking appointments, long waits for referrals, the 8am telephone system, inconsistent experiences with reception staff, short appointment lengths and limited access to same-gender clinicians. Respondents also highlighted the importance of feeling listened to, building trusting relationships with healthcare professionals and having continuity of care with the same doctor. 

The report concluded that the main barriers to NHS GP access for the Charedi community were both structural and cultural. These included difficulties obtaining appointments, limited flexibility in appointment times, concerns about privacy, a perceived lack of cultural understanding, limited translation support and challenges building long-term trust with clinicians. Healthwatch Hackney shared the findings with local GP practices and the North East London Integrated Care Board to support service improvements and future co-design work with the Charedi Jewish community.