Where have we been - May and June 2026

Attending these activities provides an opportunity for conversations with local people about their experiences of health and care services, alongside discussions with organisations and professionals working within the sector. 

Here’s a look at some of our highlights from May and June:

Bexhill PCN Event 

In early May Simon and Kira attended Bexhill Primary Care Networks Health and Wellness Event in Bexhill. 

The event brought together local health and wellness groups and organisations and was attended by members of the public. During the event we heard positive experiences of local GP practices, and we also heard about long waits to access appointments, with some individuals sharing that they had been unable to book a same day appointment for an urgent health need, even when contacting their GP practice early in the morning. We also heard about the challenges for some people in using digital systems for booking appointments, as well as a lack of face-to-face appointments at some GP practices. 

Eastbourne 999 

On the 30^th and 31^st of May we attended the Eastbourne 999 Weekend. During the two days of activity, we spoke to 174 people.

As well as sharing information about Healthwatch East Sussex and enjoying a few games of operation, people also took time to share with us their thoughts and views. We heard; 

• Positive examples of local pharmacy, with some people sharing experiences of ‘excellent’ fast and efficient services.
• Positive experiences of the recently opened Sussex Surgical Centre in Eastbourne.
• Difficulties accessing and scheduling patient transport services.
• How the mergers of some local GP services meant patients were having to travel further for appointments due to changes in locations.
• Issues with accessing the right mental health services at the right time.

Volunteers’ week 

During the first week of June, for Volunteers Week 2026, we celebrated the incredible contribution of our volunteers, with a visit to Herstmonceux Castle Gardens. 

Despite some challenging weather in the morning the sun came out just in time for tea and cake and a walk around the beautiful gardens and grounds. 

Care for the Carers Event 

For 2026 Carers Week, Matthew and Kira attended the East Sussex Carers Voice Conference hosted by Care for the Carers. 

As well as being an opportunity to celebrate the voices and experiences of local carers, the event brough together carers with decision makers to explore how carers can be encouraged to come forwards, as well as how we can provide a consistent response from social care and health services across statutory and community based services.

Eastbourne Pride

On 13^th June Matthew attended the Eastbourne Pride event celebrating the diversity of the local LGBTQ+ community. The event featured local performers, LGBTQ+ artists, market traders, and information about support in the health and VCSE sectors.

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share their story with us during these events.