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Summary of report content

Healthwatch Norfolk engaged 716 people through focus groups and online surveys regarding the NHS Long Term Plan (LTP). 

They found that people had concerns around staffing levels in Norfolk and being able to recruit and retain health and social care staff in Norfolk. Social prescribing and community groups were seen as very important, however it was highlighted how these services would need to be adequately funded and supported by clinical staff as an alternative or complement to medical interventions. Several respondents were reluctant for services to become too reliant on technology due to a lack of digital competence particularly in the older population. The deaf community highlighted the need for services to be accessible to everyone and in particular how interpreters were essential for them to access services. Wider influences which could impact on health and wellbeing, such as education and using schools as a medium to inform children and parents about healthy living and the impact which poverty and work lifestyles may have on how people are able to look after their own health.

Healthwatch Norfolk agreed to:

1. Share the report with STP leads, Healthwatch Norfolk Board, and to those who participated

2. Publish the report on HWN website and hyperlink to STP website

3. Ensure Senior Responsible Officers (SROs) are aware of specific concerns and use statutory powers to obtain feedback

4. Seek commitment to hold at least two public meetings per annum to enable STP/Integrated Care System (ICS) to feedback ensuring transparency

5. Work with partners to ensure appropriate consultation and participation is taking place and “monitor” evaluations of any system changes that are being made.

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Report 

20190722 Norfolk and Waveney LTP final report.pdf