Mental health engagement October - December 2025

Healthwatch Lewisham analysed their feedback about mental health services to share insights to improve services.  Between October and December 2025 they heard from 52 people.

• Many patients reported positive experiences with staff, who were described as respectful, compassionate, and supportive, particularly during times of distress or crisis. 
• Patients highly valued clear explanations, timely referrals, and coordinated care, especially where staff took time to listen and provide reassurance. However, a significant number of patients reported not receiving sufficient information about their mental health rights, advocacy services, available therapies, and support options following discharge. 
• Communication remains a key area for improvement, with patients highlighting delays, lack of updates, and unclear next steps, particularly during waiting periods and transitions between services. 
•  Many patients felt insufficiently involved in decisions about their care, expressing a desire for greater participation in care planning and treatment choices. 
• Patients also reported ongoing challenges accessing GP and hospital services, including difficulty booking appointments, limited consultation time, and inconsistent understanding of mental health pathways. 
• Wider social factors continue to impact recovery, including unemployment, financial pressures, limited social support, and challenges managing daily living needs