August - September 2026: What have we been hearing?

Healthwatch Sheffield report on key themes in the feedback they received between August and September 2026. They heard from 286 people who had used services across the city. Positive feedback focused on caring and friendly staff, good communication and people feeling listened to and supported. However, access to services remained a key concern, particularly difficulties obtaining GP appointments, arranging GP home visits, accessing NHS dentistry and waiting for specialist care. 

GP services generated the largest volume of feedback, with 83 people commenting on more than 30 GP practices. Many people praised the quality of care and support they received, but concerns included difficulties getting through by telephone, problems using digital booking systems, lack of continuity of care and challenges obtaining home visits. Mixed experiences were also reported regarding menstrual health, menopause and endometriosis care, with some people feeling their symptoms were not taken seriously and others facing long waits for specialist support. 

Hospital services received feedback from 85 patients, relatives and carers. Positive comments highlighted caring staff and good treatment across a range of departments. However, people reported long waits for scan results, outpatient appointments and treatment in A&E, as well as concerns about administrative errors and continuity of care. Mixed experiences were also reported at the Stroke Pathway Assessment and Rehabilitation Centre, where some patients valued rehabilitation support while others felt opportunities for rehabilitation were limited. Care homes and home care services received mixed feedback, with concerns about staffing levels, agency staff, activity provision, dementia awareness and staff training. 

Mental health services provided by Sheffield Health and Care Partnership received largely positive feedback, particularly for caring staff and the quality of support provided. Sheffield Children’s Hospital was also praised for good-quality care and communication, although concerns were raised about long waits for CAMHS and specialist appointments. Access to NHS dentistry remained a significant issue, with many people reporting difficulty finding practices accepting new NHS patients, despite a small increase in availability during the reporting period.