Understanding Neurological Conditions Needs in Richmond Upon Thames

Results updated 29 Sep 2026

Thank you to everyone who took part in the consultation on understanding the needs of people living with neurological conditions in Richmond upon Thames.

The consultation formed part of the qualitative phase of the Richmond Neurological Conditions Health Needs Assessment. Feedback from residents, carers, professionals and stakeholders was analysed alongside research, population data and service information to help build a comprehensive understanding of local needs.

The completed Health Needs Assessment was presented to the Richmond Health and Wellbeing Board in July 2026. The Board noted the findings and supported the development of a multi-agency response to address the issues identified, including improving access to services, reducing inequalities, and strengthening support for people living with neurological conditions and their carers.

As the Health Needs Assessment is an evidence and planning document rather than a proposal for a specific service change, its main outcome is to provide a robust evidence base to help inform future commissioning, service design, care pathways and partnership working across Richmond.

How your feedback was considered

Consultation feedback directly informed the findings and recommendations of the Health Needs Assessment.

The consultation helped identify a number of key themes, including:

• The need for stronger support at and beyond diagnosis.
• Improved access to mental health and psychological support.
• Greater recognition of cognitive and communication needs.
• Better coordination and navigation of services.
• Improved identification and support for unpaid carers.
• Stronger support for future planning and end of life care.
• The importance of specialist expertise, workforce development and medication safety.

These themes were incorporated into the strategic recommendations contained within the final Health Needs Assessment.

Additional engagement and evidence considered

The consultation survey formed part of a wider programme of engagement and evidence gathering, which included:

• Focus groups with people living with neurological conditions and carers.
• Engagement activities delivered in partnership with Healthwatch Richmond and Integrated Neurological Services.
• Surveys and engagement with health, social care and voluntary sector professionals.
• Ongoing involvement of people with lived experience through the Neurological Conditions Alignment Group.

Feedback from these activities was considered alongside:

• Research and literature reviews.
• Local population and prevalence data.
• NHS service activity data.
• Adult Social Care information.
• Voluntary and community sector evidence.
• Information about carers' experiences and support needs.

Further information

Further information, including the Health Needs Assessment, supporting reports and Health and Wellbeing Board papers, is available at the links below:

• Health and Wellbeing Board meeting papers (16 July 2026)
• Neurological Conditions Needs Assessment Report
• Richmond Neurological Conditions Health Needs Assessment

These documents provide further details on the evidence gathered, consultation findings, identified needs and recommendations.