Healthwatch Isle of Wight is making a final call for Islanders to take part in an important survey on local cancer services.
With just weeks remaining before the engagement period closes on 24 April, Healthwatch is urging Islanders to take part in their survey to help shape local services available to patients.
Commissioned by Wessex Cancer Alliance, the survey invites patients, carers, family members, and anyone who has used cancer services on the Island within the last 18 months to share their experiences.
The feedback gathered will directly inform improvements to local services, including diagnosis, treatment, communication, travel, support, and aftercare.
Healthwatch Isle of Wight manager, Joanna Smith, said:
“Every response helps us build a clearer picture of what is working well and where improvements are needed. This is a vital opportunity for Island residents to help shape the future of cancer care locally, and we encourage as many people as possible to share their views before the survey closes.”
Residents can take part in a way that suits them, including:
- Completing a short online or paper questionnaire
- Speaking with Healthwatch at community engagement events
- Taking part in a one-to-one conversation, if preferred
The survey is available online via a QR code and web link, as well as in paper format at locations across the Island, including the Riverside Centre, St Mary’s Hospital, GP practices, libraries, and other community venues. Freepost returns are available, along with a drop-off point at the Riverside Centre in Newport.
The project is being supported by a range of local organisations, including Mountbatten Isle of Wight, Macmillan Cancer Support, Open Umbrella Cancer Support Group, The Lighthouse Clinic, The Daisy Ring Bus, Applegate Breast Cancer Support Group, and Carers IW.
Following the engagement period, findings will be collated and presented at a public event in June, bringing together residents, community organisations, and service providers to explore key themes and agree priorities for improvement.
An improvement would be for the NHS to fund the Daisy bus
Surely both Island MPs agree that being the NHS does NOT provide
patients living on the island with FULL NHS services/facilities
THE DAISY BUS SHOULD BE PROVIDED, SO SHOULD FREE FERRY
TRAVEL FOR PATIENTS ATTENDING APPOINTMENTS ON THE MAINLAND AND FOR FAMILIES VISITING THEIR LOVED ONES
IN HOSPITALS!
After all, if ALL NHS services and facilities WERE provided on the
Island, patients would not need to travel to the mainland for
treatment etc.