"Well, well, well" - What matters to your health and wellbeing?
"What is one practical thing that would improve your health or wellbeing?"
That's the question we have been asking you this year.
More than 700 of you shared your experiences with Healthwatch in libraries, hospitals, community space, through our website and on social media.
Your honest and thoughtful feedback gives a clear picture of what helps people stay well day to day and what makes this more difficult.
Read the full “Well, well, well” report
See the complete findings and what people told us across the county.
Many people told us about the well known pressures such as getting through to GP surgeries on the phone at 8am, difficulties booking online, long waits for hospital care and the struggle to find dentists taking NHS patients. Through this work we wanted to understand the wider picture and hear about the everyday things that affect how people stay healthy and well.
What people told us shows that staying well is shaped by far more than treatment alone. Time, money, transport, clear information and access to green spaces all affect how people look after their health in body and mind.
Across North Yorkshire, four strong messages came through.
Clear information about where to turn for help
People told us they often struggle to know where to start when they need support. Many said they wanted simple and clear information that is easy to find in everyday places.
As one person put it:
“We need somewhere to talk about stress in Ripon and Harrogate.”
Others spoke about wanting access to information that feels local and relevant, saying:
“I would like a directory of local groups, meetings and clubs where I can make friends in Harrogate.”
“I need more information about support groups in Nidderdale.”
Some shared how uncertainty can add to the stress of already worrying about their health:
“With health worries there is fear and waiting for appointments enhances the burden. Clear ways to access support, groups and specialists in our communities would help.”
People also told us they want support for all ages and life situations:
“We need support for all ages, for example stroke support for men in their thirties in Ripon. Online searches suggest the nearest location is York.”
These comments show the need for guidance that helps people understand what is available, how to reach it and where they can find support early.
Kindness and being listened to
A friendly face and time to talk remains one of the strongest foundations of good care. Many people described how valued they feel when someone takes the time to understand their circumstances.
One person highlighted the difference that local and personal support can make:
“We'd like a rural nurse supporting the farm community in Harrogate with their physical and mental health.”
People told us they want to be treated as individuals, with someone who understands their story. Across the county we heard how important it is for support to feel personal, grounded and human.
Care that fits around everyday life
Many people told us that care needs to reflect the realities of work, caring responsibilities and travel.
In Hambleton, a 72-year-old old man said:
“The return of well man clinics would help. I still have aches and pains I would welcome reassurance about. A 10-minute appointment is never enough time, so I do not bother the GP practice at all. It's a bit worrying.”
In Scarborough, someone shared:
“More evening mental health provision is needed in Scarborough. We need direct help for mental health, not just social or crafting groups.”
From upper Nidderdale, another person highlighted the pressure on local facilities:
“A more up to date leisure and healthcare hub. Ours in Harrogate is in a school that is not big enough and is out of date.”
Across the county, people want care that respects their time, their commitments and the practicalities of daily life.
Healthy and safe spaces to support wellbeing
People told us that green spaces and clean environments matter greatly to their physical and mental health.
In Selby, one resident said:
“We need more clean spaces. Walking in Selby Park means stepping over litter and cigarette butts and globs of spit, not to mention chewing gum on the benches.”
These comments show how important everyday surroundings are in helping people feel well and stay active.
Transport and travel challenges
Transport was one of the most common barriers people talked about.
In lower Wensleydale, someone told us:
“We need more buses linking lower Wensleydale villages with Bedale, Leyburn, Richmond, the Garrison and Masham to attend appointments, classes and support groups. If you have no car, you have no access.”
A resident in Harrogate shared how limited routes affect their independence:
“I would like easy transport to Skipton, Thirsk and Northallerton. I am not good at navigating timetables and these routes are almost impossible. It saddens me because I cannot drive, but I would like more freedom to travel safely and without anxiety.”
And from Richmondshire, someone said:
“Why isn't there better public transport and active travel routes in rural areas such as the Dales?”
These stories show the real impact that public transport and connectivity have on people’s wellbeing.
Access to local facilities
In Harrogate, parking and accessibility were raised repeatedly, including:
“Greater parking facilities for Harrogate Hospital, including more disability spaces.”
These practical issues make a significant difference to how easily people can attend appointments and reach the care they need.
What this means for North Yorkshire
Although each part of North Yorkshire has its own character and challenges, people across the county told us many of the same things. They want support that is:
- Easy to understand
- Personal and kind
- Practical to reach
- Connected to their everyday lives and surroundings
We will share these findings with those in charge of care, including those providing it. This includes the local NHS, North Yorkshire Council, community groups and volunteers so that they can reflect on what people have told us and consider where changes are needed.
Thank you to everyone who took part and shared your experiences with us. Your voices help highlight what supports good health, where people face difficulties and where improvements could make the biggest difference.
Read the full “Well, well, well” report
See the complete findings and what people told us across the county.
