News and reports

Access to affordable healthcare is a fundamental need, yet many low-income individuals struggle to cover medical expenses.

Providing support for healthcare costs to low-income individuals is crucial for ensuring access to medical services, especially for those who may not have the same access to support than others.

If you or someone you know is struggling with healthcare costs, exploring these options can make a significant difference.

Remember, help is available, and no one should have to avoid necessary medical care due to financial constraints.

The NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) can be a useful resource to help alleviate the financial burden and improve health outcomes for those in need.

You may be able to get help with NHS costs such as:

- prescription costs
- dental costs
- eyecare costs
- healthcare travel costs
- wigs and fabric supports

Important numbers

NHS Low Income Scheme helpline – 0300 330 1343.

Prescription services helpline – 0300 330 1349.

Queries about medical exemption certificates – 0300 330 1341.

Queries about prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) – 0300 330 1341.

Queries about tax credit certificates – 0300 330 1347.

Call 0300 330 1343 for all other queries.

The Healthwatch Southwark Soundboard Listening Tour may be over, but we are still listening!

We have put together a list of resources for emotional support during periods of public disorder.

Recently, the British Medical Association announced that GP members had voted to take ‘collective action’ in protest at funding levels and pressures. While there may be disruptions on service practices, the NHS is encouraging anyone to come forward for appointments and access care.

Read what Healthwatch Southwark learned and achieved between April-June 2024.

Find out more about our work and achievements over the past year.

Southwark barbers, hair and beauty professionals can sign up for free training to help customers talk openly and honestly about their feelings and get support.

Southwark Council is working with the award-winning barber Tom Chapman to deliver bespoke training to those in the local hair and beauty industry to get clients talking about their mental health. Businesses will be offered £150 in compensation for each employee who attends.

The training takes place on Wednesday, 24 July at Peckham Levels from 10:30am-2:30pm.

Read our latest research report exploring the experiences of adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults when accessing healthcare services in Southwark.

O blood type donors asked to urgently fill appointments across south east London this National Blood Week ·

Visit blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23

We at Healthwatch Southwark are pleased to share the letter of commendation from Mayor Michael Situ for our work in the community supporting residents address barriers to health and social services.

Southwark Council want to hear from you:

· if you’ve had a pregnancy in the past five years
· from your family members
· or if you’re a professional that delivers maternity services in Southwark.

*Survey link has changed. Please see correct links below.*

We are hosting a series of pop ups as part of our listening tour whereby the general public can share their experiences in health and social care settings and know that we will do right by them to share this information with decision-makers.