North Trafford Project report

About this report

This project began as a response to the enquiries and feedback we had about health and care services in North Trafford. North Trafford includes some of the highest levels of deprivation and inequality in the borough, and the feedback suggested that there was a link between inequality and access to services.

Key findings

• Before the COVID-19 pandemic, people were broadly able to access the health and care services they needed in North Trafford.
• With regard to GP services, this was one area where access was a challenge for some, with the long waiting times mentioned as the key issue. 
• After the pandemic began people were concerned about access issues, though not everyone in this research needed to access services.
• We heard that for some dental access became more difficult post-pandemic. 
• There were also some comments related to testing such as phlebotomy being disrupted after the COVID-19 pandemic. 
• For those with English as a second language, not confident with smartphones or digital services, and preferring face-to-face appointments there were barriers to access.
• Whilst remote appointments meant easier access for some, others struggled to understand the systems and had concerns over language and privacy as well.

Recommendations

• Look at initiatives that could reduce waiting times for GP appointments once the COVID-19 pandemic ends. 
• Ensure all patients can access appointment booking services, whether digitally, via telephone, text or in person.
• When dental services are able to accept more patients there should be provision for the backlog caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Improve engagement between professionals and the public, to increase understanding of ongoing issues and any measures taken to address health inequalities.
• It would be beneficial to see more investigations into the links between inequality and health outcomes in North Trafford (as well as other areas of Trafford identified as in need).