News and reports

Social isolation can have a profound impact on mental and physical health. When we spoke to local Disabled adults, they told us about the obstacles to participation they experience. Inaccessible public transport, poor communication of what is available and stigma are just some of the factors that limit physically Disabled adults' ability to be part of the local community.

This report by Healthwatch Kingston explores the health and care experiences of families with children aged 0–5 across Kingston upon Thames. This engagement has highlighted the value of early years services and the persistent challenges families face, particularly around fragmented support, long wait times, and navigating care for children with complex or neurodiverse needs.

This report presents anonymised feedback from people who have experienced the adult safeguarding process in Kingston, as part of the borough’s commitment to Making Safeguarding Personal (MSP). The approach places individuals at the centre of safeguarding enquiries, focusing on the outcomes they want and working to ensure these are met.

Building on earlier findings, Healthwatch Kingston and partners worked to engage underrepresented groups through community workshops, surveys, and youth-led creative projects, to better understand experiences of grief and the accessibility of bereavement support across south west London.

We asked young people in Kingston how they feel about social media and health. Their answers showed a mix of connection and concern—social media is where they go to talk, learn, and express themselves, but it also brings pressure, doubt, and anxiety. What they want most is honest, accessible support from people they can trust—delivered in ways that fit their world.

Feeling lonely is something we all experience from time to time. You might feel lonely while scrolling social media, even when you're with others—or when you're on your own. It’s nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed of. The important thing is to talk about it.

Local voices are helping to shape a more inclusive Kingston, with the publication of a new five-year all-age strategy to improve support for autistic people and those with ADHD.

People with ADHD find diagnosis life-changing but long waits on the NHS need urgent action.

People needing medical help or advice should go to 111.nhs.uk first, unless it is a life-threatening emergency, in which case they must call 999

Youth Out Loud! supported by Healthwatch Kingston spoke to young Disabled people about their experiences accessing NHS and social care services. Listen to their insights and their thoughts for change.

South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust celebrated a major milestone early this month in its mental health awareness programme, having now trained 200 people in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses.

We all have times when we feel low, anxious or overwhelmed. But little things, like talking to a friend or taking a moment to breathe, can help us feel much better.