Supporting our community to access healthcare support

We recently had the pleasure of visiting Welcome 2 the UK, a charity based in Southend that supports people to learn English, settle into the community and access the help and support they need.

During our visit, we delivered an informative session about navigating NHS services, helping people to understand what healthcare support is available and where to go depending on their needs.

We explored a range of NHS services, including:

·       Pharmacy First

·       Treating minor illnesses at home

·       GP services

·       Social prescribing

·       NHS 111

·       A&E

We also discussed how wider circumstances in people's lives can affect their health and wellbeing, including mental health, housing conditions and other social factors. We highlighted the importance of knowing where to find additional information and how to access the right support.

As part of the session, we introduced Healthwatch Southend and the important role we play as the independent voice for local residents.

Healthwatch Southend is here to help everyone:

• Access free, independent information and guidance about health and social care.

• Raise concerns or share compliments about local services.

• Share their experiences of health and social care to help make services better for everyone.

It was wonderful to have the opportunity to meet the group, share useful information and help people feel more confident about accessing the healthcare and support available to them.

Thank you to Welcome 2 the UK for inviting us and for the fantastic work you do supporting people in our community!