The state of health and care in Lincolnshire

Healthwatch Lincolnshire undertook research on the state of health and care services across Lincolnshire. They gathered feedback from more than 2,500 residents between October 2025 and March 2026 about their experiences of GP services, hospitals, mental health services, social care, pharmacies, dentistry and voluntary sector support. 

The report found that access was the most significant challenge across nearly all services. Residents frequently reported difficulties obtaining appointments, long waiting times, capacity issues, transport barriers and problems accessing NHS dentistry. However, once people were able to access care, experiences were generally much more positive. Staff across services were often praised for being kind, caring, professional and compassionate, and residents valued being listened to, receiving clear communication and receiving personalised care. 

Particular strengths were identified in pharmacy services, community diagnostic centres, urgent treatment centres, ambulance services and voluntary sector support, which generally received very positive feedback. In contrast, GP access, NHS dental provision, hospital waiting times, mental health waiting lists and navigation of social care services were highlighted as key areas for improvement. Across services, residents consistently valued continuity of care, good communication, follow-up support and the ability to access care closer to home. 

Healthwatch Lincolnshire recommended ensuring public feedback remains central to service development, maintaining both digital and non-digital routes for accessing services and giving feedback, improving awareness of available support, expanding community-based care, strengthening communication throughout care journeys and supporting residents while they wait for treatment. The report concluded that although the quality of care was often viewed positively, improving access remains the most important challenge facing health and care services in Lincolnshire.