Stronger Together: Healthwatch Listens to Redcar’s Wellbeing Plus Community
Gill joined local people involved in a range of craft projects—activities that many said help them manage feelings of loneliness, stress, mental health challenges, and the day-to-day pressures of living with long-term conditions. These creative sessions provided a relaxed environment where people felt comfortable sharing their stories.
As part of the engagement, free blood pressure checks were offered. Individuals who recorded higher readings were advised to contact their GP for follow-up support.
Over the course of the hour, five blood pressure checks were carried out:
- 2 readings were in the healthy range
- 1 were slightly raised
- 2 were high
What People Told Us About Accessing Health and Care
Some participants shared:
- “It’s a burden getting in touch with the doctors. I sometimes feel that it is so much trouble that I don’t bother.”
- “Hidden illnesses (like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia) are the worst ones to get help for.”
However, not all experiences were negative. One individual commented that the new systems introduced at their GP practice had made it easier to secure appointments—highlighting the difference that more accessible processes can make.
Supporting Parent/Carers of Children with Autism
Gill also met with parent/carers of primary-aged autistic children who regularly attend sessions at Wellbeing Plus. They described the value of meeting as a group, sharing concerns, and offering each other emotional support.
A key discussion focused on the use of visual aids to help others recognise when a child may be vulnerable or in need of understanding—particularly as they get older and gain more independence.
While parents recognised the visibility and purpose of hidden disability lanyards, their children were reluctant to wear them due to stigma or fear of drawing unwanted attention from peers.
Families were signposted to the National Autistic Society, which provides more discreet alternatives such as Autism Alert Cards—useful in challenging or unexpected situations without compromising a child’s privacy.
Experiences of Mental Health Support
Another attendee shared his recent journey through hospital treatment for mental health conditions. After returning home, he felt ready to review his medication due to unwanted side effects, but expressed frustration at the lengthy process of having to go through his GP to be re-referred back into mental health services.
His experience highlighted about the delays and complexities faced when trying to re-engage with specialist mental health support.
Why These Conversations Matter
Gill explained that every story, frustration, suggestion, and positive experience gathered during these visits contributes to the wider evidence Healthwatch shares with local health and care partners. This real-life insight helps shape future services, identify gaps, and champion improvements that reflect what people truly need.
