Advice and Information

As we head into the colder months, staying warm at home will be a concern for many.

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.

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

The My Choice booklet is an information resource for people living with dementia published in May 2024. The booklet offers people the information they need to help them live well following a diagnosis of dementia.

Sussex residents who are feeling anxious, stressed or struggling with loneliness or depression can now access support from a qualified mental health professional by text.

We have created some factsheets providing information on how to access key health and care services in East Sussex, and what help may be available with the costs of accessing healthcare.