Healthwatch Visits Chapman Court Independent Living Scheme

Listening to residents’ experiences

Healthwatch took the opportunity to offer blood pressure monitoring and speak informally with residents about who we are and what we do. It was encouraging to hear that, while residents do not use digital methods to access healthcare, there were no issues raised around accessing and using primary care services.

Some residents receive paid care and use adaptations to support their independence, and those we spoke to were pleased that these were meeting their needs effectively.

Conversations about wellbeing

We had some great discussions about wellbeing and social connection. It was particularly positive to spend time talking with a small group of men, as we often find women are more likely to engage in these conversations.  Healthwatch will feed into the Middlesbrough Age Friendly group, as it’s important that older men’s voices and ideas are represented when looking at ways to support wellbeing and reduce social isolation.

Staying active together

Another area raised during our visit was the challenge of encouraging physical activity among residents. A suggestion that received strong support was chair‑based exercise, which would allow everyone to take part — including residents who use wheelchairs or mobility aids.

Healthwatch will explore what local opportunities might be available, and who knows — on our next visit, we may well be pulling up a chair and joining in ourselves.