Healthwatch East Sussex hear from young people across East Sussex

News - 20 October 2025

During September and October, we have been attending events at college and university campuses around East Sussex to here from students about their experiences of health and care. 

We have visited campuses in Hastings, Lewes, Eastbourne and Falmer and heard from over 225 students about their views and experiences.

In September, we attended Freshers Fairs at East Sussex College campuses in Lewes, Eastbourne and Hastings.  

In October, we have visited East Sussex Colleges Hastings campus for World Mental Health Day and also Sussex University for their Jobs and Volunteering Fair.  

During these activities we:  

  • Explored people’s experiences and understanding of vaping, smoking and nicotine pouches.
  • Shared information about some of the projects we are currently working on and opportunities for people to get involved as volunteers.
  • Heard about peoples’ experiences of using and accessing health and care services locally. Including:  
    • Difficulties people were having in booking appointments online  
    • How people found registering with a new GP when they are studying away from home  
    • Concerns about not being taken seriously when advocating for their own health and care  
    • Challenges with accessing mental health services and long waiting lists.  

Have you recently used a health or care service in East Sussex?  

Please tell us your experiences of local health and care services via our Feedback Centre and let us know how this has been for you. 

Click here to visit our Feedback Centre

Help and support with Health and Care 

If you need help or support related to health or care, then please contact our Information & Signposting Service via 

0333 101 4007 or enquiries@healthwatcheastsussex.co.uk

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