Advice and Information

Healthwatch often receive enquiries from people experiencing dental pain or issues, but who are struggling to get an appointment at their own NHS dentist, or who don’t currently attend a dentist.

Advocacy supports people to have their voices heard, know their rights, make informed choices and participate in decisions about their health and social care.

Advocacy is confidential, free to access and helps people navigate health and social care. Advocates are impartial and they do not work for the NHS, the council or providers of care.

This article is specifically about community advocacy services in East Sussex.

The world of advocacy can be confusing, and it can be difficult to understand when you or someone you care for may benefit from the support of advocacy services.

This guide is designed to help you understand what independent advocacy is, who can access an independent advocate, when an advocate may be able to help, and how to speak with one in East Sussex.

We explain when you can self-refer and when a professional needs to submit a referral on your behalf.

A Carer's Card is a form of identification that recognises and supports unpaid carers. It can be used to prove carer status in various settings and in emergency situations, and to access discounts.

Are you a carer?

It’s estimated that 1 in 5 adults in the UK are carers. However, many people who look after someone do not see themselves as family carers. 

If you provide unpaid care for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, or another problem, cannot cope without support, you may be entitled to help.

If you struggle with everyday tasks, due to a disability or a health condition you may be able to get support in the form of home adaptations or equipment to help you to use or move around your home.

This guide is to help you find and use NHS dental services in East Sussex.

This includes:
• Finding a dentist delivering NHS treatment accepting patients
• Getting help with an urgent dental need
• Accessing emergency dental treatment

This guide is designed to help you understand:

• The treatment NHS dentistry does and does not provide
• The charges for NHS dental services
• Who is eligible for ‘free’ NHS dental treatment

Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be a life-changing event, but knowing what support is available and what steps to take next can help you or a loved one process the diagnosis and plan for the future.

There are currently estimated to be 982,000 people with dementia in the UK, but more than a third of people with the condition do not have a diagnosis. As this number is set to increase, understanding what support is available for you or a loved one following a Dementia diagnosis is important.

During the summer, many of us enjoy the warmer weather, but there are potential risks to our health, especially when temperatures climb higher than usual.

Giving blood saves lives. The blood you give is a lifeline in an emergency and for people who need long-term treatments.

People tell us that changes to local GP practices – such as mergers, closures and boundary changes – are often a source of anxiety or concern.