Who cares? We do!

Healthwatch Liverpool held its “Who Cares? We Do!” membership event in November 2019 to hear directly from residents, voluntary sector organisations, carers and professionals about priorities for health and social care in Liverpool. Around 50 people attended and discussed the role of Healthwatch, current challenges facing services and what issues should shape future work. Key themes included GP access, social care, mental health, funding pressures, transport, loneliness and the need for more joined-up services.

Access to GP services generated significant discussion. Participants described difficulties getting appointments, long waits on telephone systems, lack of continuity with GPs and challenges for people without internet access. Transport was also highlighted as a major barrier to accessing healthcare, particularly for older people and those with mobility problems. Many attendees emphasised the importance of coordinated care, clear communication and having a single point of contact to help people navigate complex health and social care systems. 

Mental health and social care were recurring priorities. Participants raised concerns about funding cuts, reductions in voluntary sector provision, pressures on carers, difficulties accessing support before reaching crisis point and the increasing medicalisation of social problems. There were also calls for more culturally appropriate services, stronger community support, better partnership working and greater recognition of the role played by carers and voluntary organisations in supporting health and wellbeing. 

A highlight of the event was a performance of “Phyllis”, a play exploring the experiences of older people and families navigating health and social care services. The performance prompted extensive discussion about communication, discharge planning, care coordination, prevention, loneliness and the challenges families face when trying to access support. Attendees felt the play accurately reflected real experiences and reinforced the importance of person-centred care, clear information and integrated support across health and social care services.