"Unable to get GP appointment"

This story has been posted by Healthwatch Tameside on behalf of a member of the public who asked not to have their name published. They said...

This lady was extremely distressed about a number of things (including housing and disability benefit). Whilst she is addressing these issues, she is becoming extremely anxious and depressed, and tried to get an appointment with GP to discuss anti-depressants. She was unable to see the doctor as the surgery closes at lunchtime on Wednesdays (the day she needed the appointment). She has tried to make an appointment since without success. She has no money to go to the Walk-in Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne and she can’t walk there from where she lives.

She has accessed some support on her disability claim, but this situation has been going on for 6 weeks and she reports feeling suicidal and despairing. She is aware of the Samaritans as a 24 hour helpline, and that the library has a dedicated member of staff who deals with queries regarding benefits.

She has been given Healthwatch contact details also if she needs further help.