Ageing Well in Trafford

Healthwatch Trafford undertook research on barriers to accessing health, wellbeing and community support services for residents aged 50 and over. They spoke to 50 people through focus groups and community engagement activities across Trafford. Participants described difficulties at almost every stage of their journey through health and care services, including problems accessing appointments, long waiting times, poor communication between organisations and complex referral pathways. People frequently felt they had to coordinate their own care, chase referrals and repeatedly explain their circumstances to different professionals. 

A major theme was the growing reliance on digital systems. While some people valued online services, many preferred speaking to someone directly and felt digital tools should complement rather than replace telephone and face-to-face options. Participants reported difficulties using multiple healthcare apps and websites, concerns about digital exclusion and frustration accessing information such as appointments, referrals and test results. Access to GP services, NHS dentistry, blood tests and mental health support also emerged as significant concerns, with many describing lengthy waits, difficulties getting appointments and poor continuity of care. 

Transport, housing, confidence and awareness of available support were also identified as important barriers. Participants highlighted unreliable public transport, problems with community transport schemes, the cost of travelling to appointments and accessibility issues in the built environment. Many felt there was an “invisibility gap”, where people experience significant difficulties but do not meet the eligibility criteria for specialist services or ongoing support. At the same time, participants praised compassionate healthcare professionals, supported living schemes, community groups and voluntary organisations that had helped them remain independent and connected to their communities. 

Healthwatch Trafford concluded that improving access requires clearer communication, better coordination between services and more support to help people navigate the system. Recommendations included improving signposting, maintaining non-digital routes into services, strengthening coordination between organisations, addressing transport barriers, supporting community participation and ensuring care remains personalised, compassionate and centred on individual needs.