Quarterly report to Systems Quality Group: What's important to the people of West Yorkshire? September 2026
Download (PDF 147.56 KB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch organisations across West Yorkshire analysed their feedback on local people's experiences of health and care services between May and July 2026. They gathered feedback through enquiry lines, advocacy services, outreach work and community engagement activities. The report identified access to services, waiting times, communication and digital exclusion as the most consistent themes across the region.
People frequently reported difficulties accessing GP appointments, with long telephone queues and online-only booking systems creating barriers for many residents. Access to NHS dentistry remained a major concern, with some people reporting they had been unable to find an NHS dentist for years. Long waits for assessment and treatment were also reported across services, particularly for ADHD assessments, eating disorder services, mental health support, diagnostic tests and planned procedures. Many people said delays had worsened their physical and mental health and reduced confidence in services.
Communication emerged as one of the most important factors influencing people's experiences. Positive feedback highlighted compassionate staff, clear explanations and person-centred care, while poor experiences were often linked to a lack of updates, inconsistent information and poor coordination between services. Specific concerns were raised about maternity care, mental health services, hospital discharge planning and the need for more joined-up support. People from groups including those with visual impairments, learning disabilities, who are D/deaf, neurodivergent, from refugee and migrant communities, or on low incomes were reported to be disproportionately affected by access barriers and digital exclusion.
The report concluded that four key risks require action across the health and care system: barriers to accessing services, increasing waiting times, widening health inequalities and a lack of holistic support for people with complex needs. Healthwatch highlighted concerns that these issues could continue to drive poor experiences and poorer outcomes unless addressed through coordinated action across primary care, mental health services, hospitals, patient transport and wider health and care partnerships.