Guildhall walk evaluation report
Download (PDF 1.51 MB)Summary of report content
This report by Healthwatch Portsmouth summarises information collected by Healthwatch Portsmouth staff and volunteers from 314 members of the public over a 3 week period during August 2015. It evaluates the significance of data and comments within the context of a local community impact assessment in response to the CCG’s proposal.
The main findings highlight a significant proportion of respondents (two-thirds) stated they were not aware of the proposals to relocate the GWTC services to St Marys. A clear majority of people who responded to the survey (5-to-1) are opposed to the proposed re-location of the walk-in treatment facility based at GWTC to the St Mary’s Hospital site, with fewer than 14% supporting the proposal and 19% having no preference. Concerns and doubts exist about accessibility from the western side of the city to St Mary’s, exacerbated by concerns over ‘east-west’ public transport in the form of a ‘one bus journey’ between the city centre and the St Mary’s site. Concerns and doubts exist over the adequacy of car parking facilities at St Mary’s, adding to concerns about accessibility and affordability. The capacity of a single facility to respond to current and future demand (in the face of increasing housing developments and student accommodation in the City Centre) may lead to increased waiting times at SMTC. Concerns exist about the quality and range of services that would need to be provided in the re-vamped facility, including crisis and mental health services.
Recommendations for the CCG to consider arising out of this research are outlined and include: Need for a media and communications plan using patient and provider networks to raise awareness of the proposals and seek feedback. To consider the findings of this report alongside other sources, particularly around specific groups living in Portsmouth. Review the access arrangements to St Marys should the relocation go ahead. Commit to reviewing the final decision with patient and provider networks 12-18 months after implementation.