Accessible Information & Health Literacy Report

In Newcastle, several significant barriers limit people’s ability to access and understand health information. These include a low average reading age, language barriers, digital exclusion and the complexity of health information.

These challenges are not distributed evenly across the city. Areas of deprivation such as Walker, Byker, Elswick and Benwell experience higher levels of poor health, lower life expectancy, and greater communication barriers. In these communities, issues like low literacy, language barriers, and digital exclusion overlap, making it even harder for residents to access and act on health information.

Healthwatch Newcastle has gathered evidence through background research, engagement with local communities, and consultation with health professionals and experts. This includes General Practices, pharmacists, the Integrated Care Board (ICB), and public health teams. 

To find out more, you can read and download the full report below: