August 2026 - You said, we did

Healthwatch Rotherham’s August 2026 “You Said, We Did” report summarises the feedback received from local residents and the practical support provided in response. During the month, Healthwatch engaged with 50 people, distributed information to 42 people through outreach activity and signposted residents to 52 different services for help and support. Common themes included difficulties accessing GP services, problems obtaining dental care, concerns about hospital communication and requests for advocacy and support navigating health and care systems. 

Several examples demonstrate how Healthwatch provided direct support. One resident who was unable to access GP appointments was helped after Healthwatch contacted the practice and identified an issue with NHS records linked to a previous surname. Another resident seeking help with a long-standing health complaint was signposted to independent advocacy services, while a person struggling to find NHS dental care was referred to the Oral Health Team and advised about accessing urgent dental support through NHS 111. 

The report also captures wider patient feedback about local services. Concerns included difficulties using AI-based GP telephone systems for people who do not speak English, poor communication following surgery, and administrative errors in hospital communications. Residents also raised issues relating to waiting times, access to home visits, continuity of social work support, diabetes management, domestic abuse services and navigating healthcare systems. 

Overall, the report demonstrates Healthwatch Rotherham’s role as an information, signposting and advocacy service, helping residents resolve problems while also ensuring patient feedback is shared with relevant providers to support service improvement.