Young People Speak Out on Healthcare Struggles

At Healthwatch Barking and Dagenham, we’ve been listening to young people aged 13–24 across the borough to hear their views and experiences of local healthcare services. This blog shares their stories and highlights the changes needed to make healthcare better for young people.

The Struggles with GP Services

For many young people, primary care through GPs is often their first point of contact with the healthcare system. However, many expressed frustration with the accessibility of these services. A recurring theme emerged: difficulty securing appointments, long phone waits, and restrictive appointment schedules.

One individual shared their experience, saying:

"They don’t listen; it feels like the door is being shut on me. I went back and forth with the GP for 5 months despite injuring myself in a bike accident."

While some young people had positive experiences with their GPs, others struggled, especially when it came to mental health concerns. Several felt dismissed or misunderstood, with one individual sharing the difficulty they had getting help for ADHD. It’s clear that young people want GP services that are not only accessible but also responsive — where their concerns are taken seriously, and they’re given the time they need to talk without feeling rushed.

Experiences with Urgent Care and A&E

Experiences with hospital services, particularly in urgent care and A&E settings, were often marred by long waiting times. Many young people expressed dissatisfaction with delays, feeling ignored or undervalued. One individual recounted waiting 36 hours in A&E for a brain scan, which highlights the emotional toll of long waits, especially when dealing with serious, unexplained symptoms.

However, not all feedback was negative. Some young people felt reassured by the care they received, with one stating:

"The doctor was very nice, asked a lot of questions, and issued a prescription."

Challenges for LGBTQ+ Young People

LGBTQ+ young people, particularly transgender individuals, face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. These challenges include discrimination, lack of understanding, and poor communication with healthcare professionals. One individual shared their experience of being refused care in A&E because they are transgender:

"I was refused treatment in A&E because I’m a transgender man."

This points to a lack of cultural competency and sensitivity within healthcare services. Many LGBTQ+ individuals feel uncomfortable discussing sensitive topics like sexuality with their healthcare providers. One young person expressed:

"I don’t know my GP very well, so I would not feel comfortable discussing my issues about my sexuality."

There is a clear need for more inclusive, culturally competent care to ensure that all young people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feel safe and supported in healthcare settings.

Mental Health Services: A Growing Concern

Mental health services remain a major concern for many young people. Many expressed frustration with not having their emotional struggles taken seriously or receiving the attentive care they need. One individual shared:

"I need counselling for my mental health, but I can’t even get a doctor's appointment to be referred here."

Others reported feeling ignored by the Children’s and Young People’s Mental Health Services (CAMHS), with repeated appointments where they were told the same things without receiving meaningful support.

The Way Forward

These findings highlight the pressing need for healthcare reform — not only in terms of structure but also in healthcare culture. Improving accessibility, communication, and adopting a more patient-centered approach will go a long way in ensuring that young people’s needs are met. By focusing on these areas, we can help young people feel heard, respected, and supported as they navigate the healthcare system.

It’s time for healthcare services to adapt, ensuring that all young people have access to the care they deserve — without feeling alienated or dismissed.

To find out about support available locally, access these links:

https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/children-young-people-and-families/youth-services/peer-support-group-psg-youth-club

https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/children-young-people-and-families

https://www.nelft.nhs.uk/camhs-children/