Final survey briefing flags lonely motherhood journeys for some new mums
Once again, it turns the spotlight on local people's health and care experiences during the pandemic - including new mums and mothers-to-be in our area using local maternity services.
Briefing 3 covers 213 responses from people from 2 July to 1 August and reflects a continued mixed picture of health and care across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
Briefing highlights
- With some services restarting and others still paused, there continue to be many changes for local people.
- People tell us that they have found it harder to keep up to date with the changes to information and advice around how to keep safe.
- Our respondents query the reopening of services and question the impact of delays on their illness and prognosis.
- They also share concerns about how things will look in the future - including safety measures in hospitals and at GP practices.
- However, where people have been using services, three out of four rated their experience as good or excellent.
- The health, wellbeing, and safety of NHS staff, care and other keyworkers also remains important to many local people, who have continued to express their thanks and support.
Said Healthwatch CEO Sandie Smith: "People continue to have a lot of questions about services and what is happening about treatment and operations.
"So communication is still the priority for local people. They need information and also reassurance that those in most urgent need will be treated first."
You told us
This time, our survey also heard the voice of maternity service users who have seen many changes to their care due to Covid-19.
New mothers and mums-to-be have had to attend appointments alone. Some have shared experiences of feeling isolated during their pregnancies and after birth - affecting their physical and mental health.
Being pregnant during this time has been so sad and lonely…I have been into hospital recently due to lack of movement with baby and having to be in and do it all alone is petrifying.
Healthwatch also heard from people having difficulty accessing dental care for both routine care and treatment for dental problems.
Survey findings will help improve local services
The three-month Healthwatch Covid-19 closed yesterday. All the feedback you gave us between 28 May and 31 August 2020 is being compiled into a final report to be published this autumn.
Survey data will go back to local service providers and planners to help them to continue to deliver good quality care across our area.
It will also be shared with Healthwatch England to help inform the national response to the pandemic.
Thank you for taking part
Over 1,000 people have responded to the survey and shared their experiences. Thank you to everyone who has taken part and to our local health and care partners and voluntary organisations and community groups who helped promote it and encouraged people to get involved.
Keep sharing your experiences
Your health and care experiences are still wanted, even though our survey has closed.
Our job is to listen to what you have to say, understand any concerns you may have, and make sure your voice is heard and acted on by people running local services.
