This page hosts the 2024 insight report “The Hinge Centre: Supporting Bridlington’s Community” produced by Healthwatch East Riding of Yorkshire.
Healthwatch East Riding of Yorkshire regularly receive feedback from the public about their experiences of health and social care services which is compiled into a monthly intelligence report. From these reports, and from general community engagements, it was highlighted that residents of Bridlington in particular are facing difficulties in accessing adequate healthcare. The current project was designed as a way of further investigating these inequalities in healthcare provision and access, specifically in an area of high deprivation.
The Hinge Centre, established in 2008, is a highly valued community asset, supporting residents in deprived areas of Bridlington by providing a number of services, These include homelessness support, financial education, peer support groups, arts and crafts, and a community food store.
The key points for the document include:
- Health Inequalities in Bridlington: the town faces significant health inequalities, with high levels of fuel poverty, long-term illnesses, and lower life expectancy compared to other areas in East Riding,
- Challenges in Accessing Healthcare: residents experience difficulties accessing NHS dentists, GP appointments, and travelling to healthcare appointments, highlighting the need for better local healthcare services There is a critical shortage of NHS dentists in Bridlington, forcing many residents to go without dental care or seek emergency services far from home. Residents face difficulties in accessing GP appointments, with complaints about long waiting times and inadequate service.
- Transportation Issues: Many residents struggle to travel to healthcare appointments outside Bridlington, with limited patient transport services and high demand for community transport.
The report can be viewed and downloaded below.