News and reports

GP practices in South West London, which cover Croydon, Kingston, Merton, Richmond, Sutton, and Wandsworth boroughs, introduced a new BSL interpreter provider on 1st October 2024. DA Languages replaces the old provider, Language Line, and aims to make it easier for people to get the support they need. GP staff have been given training materials to help them use the new system.

We are so thankful to those who were able to attend our Healthwatch Wandsworth Assembly on the 27th of March at STORM Family Centre. We want to also say thank you again to Marie from STORM for letting us use their venue and to all the organisations who came to speak to attendees about great work they do.

The Furzedown Project launched ‘Ageing on Our Own Terms’ a new booklet for health and care commissioners, providers, and regulators, designed to assist in meeting the needs and aspirations of LGBT+ people as we age.

Healthwatch England are asking about your experience of referral for specialist treatment. Has your GP referred you for an assessment or treatment at a hospital or community clinic? Share your story.

Understanding the Accessible Information Standard

The Accessible Information Standard (AIS) helps health and care services meet the needs of patients and carers with communication needs. This includes individuals with sensory loss, neurological conditions, neurodiversity, and learning disabilities. AIS requires service providers to identify, record, flag, share, and meet patients' communication needs to ensure fair healthcare access.

Read more about Continuing Healthcare, eligibility to get this support and more.

This is a week long campaign that raises awareness about cervical cancer screening and prevention on 21-28th January 2025.

Read our report on patient experience of the Acute Stroke and Neurorehabilitation Units on Thomas Young Ward at St George’s Hospital.

Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, held each November, aims to highlight the unique mental health struggles men face and encourage open conversations about mental health. While many men experience anxiety, depression, and stress, societal pressures can make it difficult for them to seek help, often resulting in silence and isolation.

Read about our Healthwatch Assembly held on October 24th 2024. Here we focused on how we can better connect with our community.

What health and social care issues are affecting you?

Healthwatch Wandsworth have been connecting with services across the borough that engage children and young people with autism as part of their research project. Wandsworth is a borough rich in community spirit and exciting activities.