Healthwatch Central West London Statement:
The quality of public services available equally to all citizens should be one of the key factors against which we judge how our society is functioning.
How then do we see life in central and west London in the aftermath of the terrible fire at Grenfell Tower?
The shock continues to be felt by the community, and is now joined by a deep sense of injustice, sadness, and perhaps even shame that this could and should have been avoided.
The tragedy at Grenfell Tower has sadly demonstrated that voices from the local community regarding the provision of service are not always heard or acted upon.
Over the coming weeks and months, we will continue to provide information on where to find help, support the network of community groups we work with, ask questions, and gather people’s experiences of health and social care through this difficult time.
The role of Healthwatch is to champion the community voice in health and social care, and to support those communities to challenge, influence, and change how health and social care is provided.
Grenfell Tower shows the importance of not only listening to people’s experiences, but also acting on what they say, and as Healthwatch we are determined to play our part in making sure that the public’s experiences of health and social care are voiced and heard.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all of those affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower.’
Information and Advice: Mind Kensington & Chelsea has put together information on where to find emotional support for if you have been affected by the Grenfell Tower fire. This includes community support, listening services, and useful tools to manage your mental wellbeing. You can view and print their leaflet by using the link.
If you are concerned about your mental health, NHS England has produced a trauma leaflet to help support your wellbeing following the tragedy. We have also put together an easy read version of the leaflets for the NHS. Please click here
