Focus on winter - your experiences of health and care
Download (PDF 119.75 KB)Summary of report content
This West Yorkshire winter briefing brought together feedback collected across Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds, North Yorkshire and Wakefield between April and June 2024. People highlighted concerns about accessing healthcare during winter, particularly difficulties obtaining GP appointments, understanding where to seek support and worries about increasing pressure on services. Many said that clear communication about available services, opening times and options for accessing care would help them feel more confident managing their health during winter months.
Access to care was a major theme. People reported difficulties obtaining GP appointments, concerns about long waits in urgent care and problems travelling to healthcare appointments, particularly in rural areas and for those reliant on public transport. Respondents also highlighted challenges accessing prescriptions and receiving timely treatment for long-term conditions. Some felt that more community-based services could help reduce pressure on hospitals and improve access to support closer to home.
The cost of living, loneliness and mental health were closely linked concerns. People described struggling to afford heating, food, transport and prescription costs, with some saying financial pressures were negatively affecting both their physical and mental wellbeing. Many reported feeling more isolated during winter, particularly if they lived alone, while carers highlighted additional pressures and a lack of opportunities to take breaks from caring responsibilities.
The report also highlighted concerns about hospital discharge, communication with families and the support available after people return home. Feedback suggested that winter pressures can lead to rushed discharges, inconsistent information and inadequate planning for ongoing care needs. Healthwatch recommended improving communication, increasing support for vulnerable people and carers, providing accessible information about services and ensuring people are fully involved in decisions about their care and discharge arrangements.