Local people and communities across Essex are being invited to share their views on the future of local health services as NHS Essex launches a new public survey to help shape priorities over the next five years.
The survey forms part of the ongoing development of a plan that sets out how the NHS will work with partners to improve health, reduce inequalities and make services more sustainable across the county.
The plan aligns with national NHS ambitions and has already been informed by conversations with more than 500 residents, staff and community organisations across Essex. People told the NHS they want:
- faster access to care
- more care closer to home
- better joined-up services
- stronger mental health support
- more focus on prevention and early help.
About 2 million people live in the NHS Essex area but where people live can affect how long they live, their access to services and quality of life.
- People could live 12 years longer in some areas of Essex compared to others
- Essex has an older population than the national average and it is growing, with 20% of people aged 65 and over
- Basildon, Harlow, Thurrock have a younger population (under 65) than other parts of Essex
- Castle Point, Maldon, Rochford, Tendring have older populations (over 65) than other parts of Essex
- Coastal communities, new towns and larger cities and towns in Essex are in the 20% most deprived communities nationally.
Tom Abell, Chief Executive for NHS Essex said: “We know health services across Essex need to change. Everyone should have the opportunity to live long and healthy lives, but demand is increasing and too many communities still experience poorer health and unequal access to care.
“We also understand people have concerns about change, which is why listening to local people and involving communities in shaping future NHS priorities is essential.”
The NHS in Essex is now inviting further feedback on suggested priorities, what matters most to local people and where improvements should happen first. Residents can complete the survey online by 30 June by visiting our Virtual Views engagement website.
The survey also explores people’s experiences of accessing services, how well services work together and what changes would make the biggest difference to local communities.