From innovation to inclusion: examining the accessibility of virtual wards in Lancashire

Healthwatch Lancashire wanted to understand the health inequalities that might result from the introduction of virtual wards.  They engaged with NHS trusts delivering virtual ward services in the region, the Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (LSCICB), and members of the public. Their aim was to identify barriers to inclusive care, evaluate efforts to address them, and assess public perceptions and understanding of virtual wards.

Key findings

• There is generally good awareness of barriers to virtual wards among sector leads
• Overlooked referrals are common
• Public awareness is poor, limiting engagement with the service
• People do not like the term ‘virtual wards’
• Pathways into virtual wards remain too narrow and exclusive
• There is a lack of standardisation
• Some people, eg homeless people or people who need interpreters face additional barriers to accessing virtual wards
• There is a significant underrepresentation of ethnic minority groups in virtual wards in Lancashire, particularly among people from Asian and Asian British communities.
• Funding challenges prevent some of the expansion of virtual wards.