How people feel about living in Medway: A spotlight report focusing on the peninsula villages of Chattenden, Hoo, Wainscott and Upnor

Healthwatch Medway undertook research into the experiences of those living in Chattenden, Hoo, Wainscott and Upnor. In January 2024, they engaged with 23 residents living in rural areas on the peninsula.

• 100% of respondents said that they like the area in which they live.
• 82% of people involved in community groups believe that being involved has an impact on their health and wellbeing.
• 82% of people not involved in community groups believe that not being involved has an impact on their health and wellbeing.
• 78% of people said that environmental factors where they live have a positive impact upon their health and wellbeing.
• 74% of overall respondents said that their health and wellbeing is impacted by the positives and negatives of where they live.
• 55% of those involved in community groups were between the ages of 35-64.
• 52% of people we spoke to were under 65.
• 48% of people are involved in a community group.
• 30% of people mentioned the negative impact of the lack of public transport where they live.

Healthwatch Medway will share this report with health and social care services to help build an understanding of how the areas where people live impact on them, and how they can work together with services to improve Medway residents’ quality of life.