Seldom Heard Voices
Download (PDF 5.48 MB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Lincolnshire undertook research into the experience of people from different communities to understand whether there were health inequalities in their area. They undertook 6 focus groups including people from Eastern European countries, homeless people, people from LGBTQ+ groups, have mental ill health, live in rural areas and people with a range of sensory impairments. They also spoke to community organisations in touch with these communities.
They heard that:
- There was a need for tailored communications
- There needed to be better understanding by front line staff for individual health, disability or care needs
- There was a concern about staff shortages. This was often linked to the patient’s ability to get an appointment or to receive an appropriate level of service.
- There was a need for more emotional and mental health support
- There needed to be enhanced need for supported carers.
The report contains 4 recommendations about communication, training, emotional and mental health support and better use of community groups.