All posts

Patient information: Parking charges From the 31st of July 2026, parking charges will increase at Southend, Basildon, Broomfield and Orsett Hospitals. If you are travelling to one of these hospitals by car, please be aware of the updated tariffs before you park. There is a free parking allowance of up to 20 minutes. The hospital car parks use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), so paper tickets are not currently issued. Before leaving, it is advisable to visit a pay po

On Monday 6th July, Healthwatch Southend was notified about some proposed changes to the way NHS GP services are delivered in Shoebury. These changes involve the Southend East Primary Care Network and its use of Norton Place. Dr Irlam & Tabitha Love, Joint Clinical Directors at Southend East Primary Care Network released a statement confirming the following: “Following national changes to the way some NHS funding is allocated, Southend East Primary Care Network is reviewing h

Make this the summer you go smoke free. Quitting smoking isn't always easy, but it could be one of the most important decisions you ever make. If someone you loved smoked, you'd want them to have the support they needed to quit, the same is true for you. Smoking can seriously damage your lungs and increase the risk of long-term health conditions such as COPD and lung cancer. But despite the high risks, people continue to smoke because of stress, anxiety, trauma or simply beca

It's time to highlight lung health and encourage people to protect their lungs. Around one in five people in the UK will develop a lung condition during their lifetime. In Southend-on-Sea, lung conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), pneumonia and lung cancer are a particular concern, with rates higher than the national average. Lung conditions affect people of all ages. Some are preventable, while others are inherited or develop without a clear cause

Southend, like much of Essex, is experiencing temperatures much higher than we have been used to so far this year. With temperatures expected to peak this week, it is important that everyone takes steps to stay safe and well. A few simple changes can help keep you comfortable during hot weather: The hottest part of the day is usually between 11am and 3pm. During these hours, try to avoid strenuous physical activity such as exercising, gardening or carrying heavy loads. If pos

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, also known as Leukemia or CLL, is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. Yearly in the UK, 3,800 to 4,700 people, by population size, around 10–15 people in Southend may be affected annually. Signs and symptoms It usually develops slowly and is more common in people over the age of 40. There is currently no cure, but treatment can help manage the condition, extend life, and support a better quality of life. Symptoms can be subt

A new bill will change how patients are heard, but until it becomes law, you can continue to expect the same service from Healthwatch. The NHS Modernisation Bill will change how patients and people who use social care services are listened to. Under the proposed new law, Healthwatch England’s responsibilities will move to the Department of Health and Social Care. Local Healthwatch roles will be absorbed by NHS Integrated Care Boards and local councils. We don’t yet know when

We all have times when we feel stressed, alone, low or overwhelmed. Mental Health Awareness Week is a chance to talk openly, take time to listen and remind people that help is available. Your Mind and Body Work Together As human beings, our minds and bodies are closely connected and what we feel physically can affect how we feel emotionally. For example: Poor sleep can affect mood. Stress can cause headaches or stomach pain. Long-term physical illness can affect confidence an

With GP surgeries and some services running reduced hours over the May bank holidays, it’s important to plan ahead and know where to go for help. Many common illnesses like; colds, sore throats, and minor injuries, can be treated at home. Keeping a simple health kit with pain relief, cold remedies, stomach treatments, first aid supplies, and a thermometer can help you manage symptoms quickly. Always follow medicine labels and ask a pharmacist if you’re unsure. Make sure to or

1 in 50 people in the UK and around 1.25 million people are living with a diagnosed eating disorder. Eating disorders affect the way a person thinks about food, eats, and feels about their body. For some people, food can become a way of coping during tough times. This might include bereavement, relationship breakdown, losing a job, housing difficulties, trauma, or extreme stress. Controlling food may feel like a way to manage overwhelming emotions or situations. Types of Eati

Sexual abuse and sexual violence can be hard to talk about, many people feel shame or fear, so they stay silent. But silence can stop someone from getting the help they need and one should have to cope alone. What is Sexual Abuse or Sexual Violence? Sexual abuse or violence is any sexual act without consent that causes harm or distress. It can happen to anyone, at any age, and in any community. It is often done by someone the person knows or once trusted, not always a strange

Cold and stormy weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly for older people, young children, and those with long-term health conditions. In Southend, there is currently an amber weather warning for ice and cold, so extra care is needed over the coming days. When temperatures fall, the risk of illnesses such as flu, chest infections, heart attacks and strokes increases. Cold homes can also worsen conditions like asthma, arthritis and high blood pressure. Keeping

Staying Well This Festive Season The festive period is a busy time, but it’s important to look after your health. Cold weather can make some health problems worse, especially for older people, young children, and anyone with a long-term condition. Keep warm, wear layers, and drink hot drinks. GP practices and many pharmacies have reduced opening hours over the bank holidays. This means you may not be able to get help as quickly as normal. If you take regular medicine, order y

The CMDU is a seven-day service that supports non-hospitalised patients who are at a high risk of developing complications from COVID-19.

We're pleased to publish our Annual Report for 2022-23. The regulations relating to Healthwatch mean we have to do this each year

Carers play a crucial role in supporting individuals with health conditions, disabilities, or other care needs. It's essential for carers...

We're pleased to publish our Annual Report for 2022-23. The regulations relating to Healthwatch mean we have to do this each year and...

Big changes are taking place across the health and care system in England. The Kings Fund have produced an animation in conjunction C F...

This report sets out what we have done during the last year and our plans for the future. Please share this with friends and family, and...

The last 12 months have been challenging as plans for merging Southend Hospital services with those in Basildon and Chelmsford take...