Feedback from Island residents between 13th February and 12th March 2025 has revealed continued concerns around healthcare access and quality on the Isle of Wight.
Healthwatch Isle of Wight received 286 pieces of feedback in total. Of these, 57 per cent were negative (152 people), 39 per cent positive (113 people), and just 4 per cent (11 people) were neutral or mixed.
Recurring themes: Care homes and specialist shortages
A key concern was the rising dissatisfaction with the quality of care in residential homes. Specific comments pointed to delays in helping residents with basic needs, such as using the toilet and a lack of inclusive activities for those with more complex conditions.
The report also highlighted delays in treatment due to a lack of specialist consultants. One patient described months of waiting for gastroenterology follow-up after hospital admission, despite ongoing pain and attempts to get help.
Dental access remains a persistent issue
Access to NHS dentistry remains one of the most pressing issues on the Island. One resident reported being on the dental waiting list for four years and unable to afford private treatment.
However, not all experiences were negative. Positive feedback included praise for the Wight Clinic’s dental services and an individual recounting a smooth, pain-free day surgery for breast cancer.
Face-to-face appointments still a challenge
Residents continue to report frustration with GP services. One person described a “very scary experience” where they received a text instructing them to book an online phone appointment, only to discover the next available slot was three weeks away.
Others shared that GPs appeared rushed or unwilling to address more than one issue during a visit.
Engaging the community
Healthwatch Isle of Wight has taken these concerns directly to decision-makers. The organisation raised the issues of dentistry and access to clear information at the Isle of Wight Council Health Scrutiny Committee.
It also conducted quality visits to five departments at St Mary’s Hospital, including maternity and acute assessment, and contributed to community-led research through Community Action IW.
Projects promoting positivity
Alongside challenges, the report celebrated positive local projects.
In December, Carers IW launched ‘Save Dave’, a book created by Island carers. Proceeds from the book support adult carers on the Isle of Wight. It is available at The Brading Roman Villa, The Riverside Centre, Carers IW and The Lifeboat pub in East Cowes.
A new public artwork, the ‘Flower of Life’, was installed at Newport Bus Station. Created by students at the Island Learning Centre and artist Nathan Holt, the piece includes 90 petals designed by community members.
The project was part of Artswork’s Young Cultural Changemakers programme, which is funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner.
Recognition in care
Hollie Wilson, a care practitioner at Highfield Nursing Home in Ryde, received the Employee of the Year award at Hartford Care’s annual awards. She was recognised for her exceptional work on care planning and risk assessments.
Volunteer Margaret Stoffell was also honoured for her dedication to the home’s residents.
Listening to the Island
Healthwatch continues to gather feedback from the public through community outreach, social media, and direct contact. It provides a trusted advice service to help residents navigate health and social care systems.
The organisation plans to launch regular surveys focusing on health and care priorities, with the goal of amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard.
See their website for more information.
