A REPORT from Healthwatch Dorset has found there are certain areas that urgently require improvement for the homeless and vulnerably-housed.

The report recognises several significant barriers preventing people from accessing the care they desperately need such as a stigma in healthcare settings and barriers to receive mental health support.

It also found that there was limited NHS dental access and common health issues are poorly managed.

Recommendations were also suggested to improve on the issues.

One improvement that is recommended was to ensure processes are in place to support people experiencing homelessness in registering with a GP or dentist.

It also recommends that there is enhanced support for health and care providers to meet individuals’ communication and information needs, and circumstances.

Kate Hibbitt, Operations Director of the HealthBus Trust, one of the organisations that supported Heathwatch Dorset to carry out the project, said: “The HealthBus team are passionate about improving the health and wellbeing of the most vulnerable by providing specialist homeless healthcare.

“We are incredibly grateful to Healthwatch Dorset for carrying out this research to understand the daily challenges for people experiencing homelessness, exclusion and health inequalities.

“Our hope is that this report will amplify the homeless voices who have shared their unique insights into the struggles, barriers and systemic issues they face.

“We anticipate that these findings will provide valuable context to address change in the system, improving access, patient experience and their hopes for the future.”

David Freeman, NHS Dorset Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Commissioning Officer, said: “This report is very much welcomed by NHS Dorset. It provides real insights and reflections on the experiences of people who are often disadvantaged due to their insecure housing situation or homelessness.

“It brings to life the challenges people face in accessing health care and support. The findings very much align with work we have started with our partners across the Integrated Care System to review and plan improvements.

“Health and care services need to be responsive to anyone experiencing housing challenges and we need to make accessing health and care services easier for those vulnerably housed.

“This report will help us further develop our health and care offer, so it is equitable for all sectors of our community.”

The report titled ‘Voiceless, unheard and socially excluded: Accessing health and care while homeless or vulnerably housed' was released in September 2024.

The full report can be found on the Healthwatch Dorset website.