Supported Waiting Partnership Network
Published on
New monthly drop in for parent/carers of children in Walsall on an NHS paediatric waiting list.
Waiting lists in the UK have become a real concern, with many families facing prolonged delays.
Several factors contribute to these extended waiting times; there’s been a notable rise in referrals for assessments nationally, the surge in demand hasn’t been matched by resources. Specialist services are working harder than ever and dealing with more complex presentations and more appointments are needed to form a comprehensive assessment, this leads to longer waiting times. Across the UK there are reported average waits of over a year for assessments, with certain areas experiencing waits of up to two and a half years.
The current assessment system struggles to keep pace with rising demand. A lot of information from a wide partnership is needed to make evidence-based holistic assessments and robust diagnoses, this all takes time to gather to produce a good picture of the needs for a child or young person.
We know these delays can have huge impacts on children, young people and their families. We hope to be able to support our families within Walsall with our Virtual Waiting Room and Supported Waiting Partnership Network meetings.
The supported waiting partnership network meetings will be running every month where there will be guest speakers to advise on a variety of monthly topics and many services who support with access to additional support for you and your child.
Who does this apply to?
Families of children on a waiting list to be seen by a paediatric health service.
Parents/ Carers can come and chat to other parents and find out what additional support is available across the partnership.
When and where are the meetings?
Meetings will take place at Manor Farm Community Association, King George Crescent, Rushall WS4 1EU.
The first meeting will be held on Wednesday 30 April from 9:30am to 11:30am.
For further information, please call 01922 656463 or email pals.officer@nhs.net