What we're hearing about East Surrey

Healthwatch Surrey undertook research to explore local people’s views on, and experiences of, health and social care services in East Surrey. The data were collected via a series of engagement events in January 2025 as well as Healthwatch Surrey’s Helpdesk enquiries, the Independent Health Complaints Advocacy service, Giving Carers a Voice’ engagement, online Feedback Centre, and postal submissions. The report covers three key areas: First Community Health, continuity of care, and mental health services.

First Community Health: Healthwatch Surrey gathered feedback from people on a number of non-emergency health and care services. Feedback was generally positive, noting good accessibility, easy booking, and short wait times. Though some people spoke about issues with referrals, and a lack of wait time information at some services.

Continuity of care: Issues were raised about delayed cancer diagnoses, people not feeling respected, and one instance of someone not being able to access care following release from prison.

Mental health services: Some people noted a lack of continuity of care and communication with family. One hospital Emergency Department nurse noted the pressure that the service is under with regard to patients presenting with mental health issues. People also speak about long waits for autism or ADHD assessments and diagnoses.