Help shape community earwax removal service in south east London

NHS South East London is working to improve access to safe, timely, and effective earwax removal services across south east London. Many people experience problems with earwax build-up, which can cause discomfort, hearing difficulties, and sometimes impact balance.

At present, access to earwax removal can vary depending on where you live and which services are available locally. Some people may need to pay privately, wait a long time for appointments, or travel further than they would like. We want to change this by designing a consistent community earwax removal service that is fair and accessible for everyone across south east London.

How you can get involved

We would like to hear from:

• People who have used earwax removal services in the past
• Carers, family members, and friends who have supported someone needing treatment
• Health and care professionals who refer patients for earwax removal
• Anyone with an interest in how services are delivered in the community

Your feedback will help us understand:

• What works well in the current services
• What challenges people face when trying to access earwax removal services
• what improvements would make the service easier to use, quicker to access, and more inclusive.

Your insights will be used to shape the future community earwax removal service for south east London.

The programme team is also looking for two people from Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham or Southwark to join our programme steering group. The steering group supports the review of the current service and plan the re-commissioning of the programme. Its aim is to oversee and provide strategic direction for the design, engagement, and procurement of a consistent, equitable community earwax removal service across south east London.

The group will play an important role in ensuring:

• The project aligns with local and regional priorities
• Services are designed to improve patient outcomes
• The voices of local people shape how care is delivered
• Collaborative working is promoted across all six boroughs

What’s involved?

• Attending a one-hour online meeting via Microsoft Teams once a month during the course of the procurement project
• Taking part in supporting the procurement panel during the service procurement process
• Sharing your experiences and perspectives to help shape the new service

We have developed a role description and an expression of interest form for anyone who would be interested and welcome applications from people from all communities in south east London.

• You can read the full role description here.

The deadline for submitting an expression of interest is on Sunday 12 October.