Living with COVID

Between 9th April and 8^th May 2020, Healthwatch Bolton gathered feedback from the public about how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting their everyday lives. They worked in partnership with Bolton public health and students from Bolton University and also looked at the data collected from social media groups.

They found that, people who use social media platforms are making good use of community groups and COVID-19 response groups. People look for solutions to problems in these groups and find them very beneficial, particularly for sharing of information. However, people would like fewer confusing messages coming from the government particularly around self-isolation and social distancing. They also found that people would like information that is non digital, in hard copy format if possible and that people with sensory disabilities struggle to find accessible information.

The survey responses indicated that people are managing to get physical exercise an using digital technology to stay connected with friends and family. For some who suffered from mental health issues, they have struggled to manage anxieties about the pandemic and other responsibilities. Adults and children who have suffered from dental pain or problems have been unable to see a dentist as they did not meet the criteria for urgent care.

Healthwatch Bolton gave six recommendations to Bolton Council and Bolton CCG and public health. The report does not contain any response from the providers.