Covid-19 survey

Healthwatch Rotherham undertook a survey to find out how the Covid-19 pandemic affected local residents, and how they feel about the information that is being presented to them.  They undertook an online survey for the period 22April 2020 to 4 May 2020.  They received 174 responses.

37% of respondents felt that they are at high risk from Coronavirus and half said they were supporting or caring for someone who is high risk.  Nearly one in three of those who responded had received a communication from the NHS advising them to shield.

Almost 8 in 10 found it easy or very easy to find the information they needed on how to keep themselves and others safe during the pandemic.  Almost 85% found it easy to keep up to date with the information whilst just over 5% found it difficult to find the latest information.

Over half (53%) felt that they have seen too much information about Coronavirus. Nearly 2 in 5 responded by saying they had all the information they needed. Of those that wanted more information, the top 5 areas were testing for Coronavirus, changes to health care services, looking after my mental health or wellbeing, help for people who do not use the internet and accessing repeat medications.  Respondents also felt there was a lack of information in an easy read format and that they found advice about wearing facemasks confusing.

Healthwatch asked residents how the Coronavirus pandemic had impacted on their mental health Nearly 9 in 10 (87%) of respondents said that it has affected their mental health in some way.  Over 2 in 5 of respondents felt they needed support with their mental health during this time.

Two in five of respondents said they had experienced changes in the way their healthcare is delivered.

There are 4 recommendations about the provision of information, including about testing and healthcare delivery and mental health support.