Appendix 3 – Age Discrimination in the Health Service
Is there anything else (good or bad) that you would like to tell us about your experience of foot care
services in Bristol?
All of the responses we could read and which were in any way relevant have been included.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Women aged 55 to 69

A basic nail cutting service is not satisfactory. A full pedicure is required: feet to be soaked in the correct solution; nails
cut; hard skin to be sloughed off; foot cream to be applied to the foot and lower leg.

I haven’t any problems myself, but my elderly father (93 years) used to be able to see a NHS podiatry care nurse at St
Johns Lane Clinic in Bedminster, but this was stopped or made only twice a year. What is he supposed to do
between sessions? Luckily for him, he has family to care for him. But what of the elderly people without family? How
do they manage?

I don’t have problems cutting my nails as such. It’s just that I have two ‘parrot beak’ nails and two other nails that are
growing badly. I am going to seek my doctor’s advice again as to how this might be managed.

Some GPs are not helpful in recommending podiatry for patients. Private means huge fees, so you are put off.

I attend podiatry at the BRI for flat feet. NHS should make homeopathic treatment for feet on the NHS. I travelled to
London Homeopathic Marigold Clinic for ulcers, verrucas – wonderful!

I am going into hospital in January for a foot operation and I may not be able to cut my nails or look after my feet. I will
need help.

The whole system charges far too much, and the waiting list is far too long. So no, I would not bother with it. I would
manage somehow by myself.

Not enough people to go around to the elderly, or they are too far away for them to come to me – and very expensive.

I think all NHS surgeries should have a nurse qualified to deal with foot problems.

I think it should be free for over 60s.

Some years ago I spent more money than I could really afford attending a chiropodist for verruca removal. I would
really like to get my feet checked out by a chiropodist, but I cannot afford to do so. Why do you use the American word
– podiatry?

More availability for podiatry at doctors’ surgeries. This service is very limited – only two sessions after hip or knee
surgery.

I have never been offered help.

It would be good to have a podiatrist to call when my toe nails need cutting.

£12 seems rather a lot for just nail cutting. £10 would seem fair – including a foot bath.

I go to the foot clinic in North Street, Bedminster twice a year to have hard skin removed from the soles of my feet –
which can get very painful (like walking on broken glass) if left longer than six months. I pay £20 and it is an excellent
service. Because I have arthritis in my right big toe and in another toe on my left foot, I could go free to the clinic in St
Johns Lane but they are nowhere near as good. It’s worth catching two buses.
39

When I accepted podiatry services they were very good indeed.

£12 just for toe nail cutting is too expensive. NHS chiropody is no longer available unless you are a diabetic – private
chiropody is expensive.

The girl at Charlotte Keel is slapdash.

As I have rheumatoid arthritis I get regular podiatry care on the NHS near my home in Brentry (I have had arthritis
since I was 40 – I am now 64). I have paid privately until the last three years, and I find that private care is more
extensive and involves creaming of the feet and longer time given, but I am satisfied with NHS care at present.

Too long a wait between appointments (ten weeks), and if appointment is cancelled you have to wait another four
weeks (fourteen weeks in all). You don’t always see the same person, so you have to tell a new person what you have
done, and then it’s up to them what needs doing. You can go ten weeks without toe nails being cut. I asked at my last
appointment for my nails to be cut, but was refused so I have to wait for my next appointment before I can ask again.

My daughter is a diabetic and when she lived at home it was always very difficult for her to get an appointment at our
clinic to have her feet checked. This was a necessity and often caused problems.

I have also been private, but it is my friend who does a better job as she does as I ask. NHS or private think they know
better - about my feet.

Doctors ignore problems with bunions. A lot of the time lots of people with nail problems can’t afford £12 to have their
nails cut. Rising fuel prices and rising prices in every thing means that at £12 a session it is difficult.

As a reflexologist I regularly treat ladies in their 80s which they thoroughly enjoy. Perhaps we should offer more
complementary treatments.

I am diabetic, so I use the chiropodist at my health centre.

I think there should be a quick X-ray service as in my case if I had an X-ray they might find out one of my problems I
am sure.

Referrals to hospital have been excellent (NHS). I understand from people who want NHS chiropody treatment that
there are long waiting times. That’s why I am treated privately near my home four times a year.

When inquiring about treatment for a possible ingrown toenail I did not receive much help from my doctor.

When applying for foot care services via NHS I was informed that there was a three to six months waiting list – so I
went privately. There was no other option available.

Private podiatry is very much the luck of the draw. The first one was excellent but left to have her baby. Since then not
so good. But difficult to change as not many will come to the house and, as a wheelchair user, that is the best way.

I am seen every two months at my local clinic.

I tried the NHS podiatry foot care at my local health centre and the young girl there doing it was hopeless. She would
not even cut people’s toenails.

As I often have several other more serious medical concerns, foot problems (eg moderate pain or cutting nails or
aching feet) seem to fall off the agenda. Nail cutting at £12 seems a lot, although £5 to £10 feels very reasonable –
possibly a sliding scale of payments based on income?

Waiting times between visits is three months at the local clinic. I could not go three months without having my toenails
cut or hard skin removed from my feet. This is what was told to me by the local clinic in my area. This is why I must
40
pay £18 every six weeks to a visiting private podiatrist at the local chemist. I have an ingrowing toenail that if left
unattended will cause me great pain.

I must say that some advice I had from the NHS podiatry was very helpful to me, but I am still waiting for new inner
sole over six months. That was last year and I am still waiting now.

Six month wait from referral to first appointment/assessment.

Didn’t know such a service existed – always paid for a private chiropodist.

I have never received any foot care, but I feel the time is coming. There is a need for this service for the elderly, but
many elderly consider £10 too much - also please clarify if this is £10 per foot, as the elderly I meet ask this question.
They reason £10 for both feet ok, but if it’s each that’s a different matter. Quite often only one foot causes pain. I think
this is how the question arises.

I have started using NHS podiatry services since past couple of years due to a corn and calluses which keep
appearing every few weeks. When I was employed I saw a private podiatrist a couple of times for a corn on my right
foot. The corn was removed and the problem was solved for ever. Since I retired my left foot has a corn which is
reoccurring – though removed by NHS podiatrist every six weeks or so. It is quite frustrating as the appointments are
taken between 9am and 12 noon only.

When I have asked about nail cutting, the NHS say they don’t do it unless you are also handicapped and referred by a
doctor.

This service should be opened to all ages with problems – not restricted to the elderly and paid for through national
insurance contributions.

Foot care on the NHS is non-existent. No private care within one mile. I have very recently seen an advert in the Age
Concern Charity Shop for local toe nail cutting. I will investigate.

I have bunions but they give me no pain, though I get special insoles from the NHS.

At the end of September 2007 I had some of the joints of my foot fused, which involved bone graft taken from my
ankle. Therefore the treatment surrounding it was very specific and, I must say, available from the NHS. In normal
circumstances I use a chiropodist for general care and he is in private practice.

I can only praise the service I have received form the podiatrists at my local NHS clinic. They have given me such
relief over the past years.

We should not have to pay.

As a working home care assistant, I know there are not enough NHS professional podiatry services.

Three different podiatry nurses did not find out I had ulcers on my toes – they put it down to hard skin!!

I suffer foot problems as a result of having MS. When I suffer problems I need podiatry care at short notice – so far it
has been excellent.

Shoes are not sold wide enough in most shops.

Yes – I would pay if I needed a professional service.

I find the podiatry service lacking in what it does. The people will cut nails but refuse to help with hard skin which
grows around nails. They say it’s against their rules but it is the thick skin which causes the real problems.

My husband is a semi-retired podiatrist but I feel for patients trusting themselves to the unregistered persons calling
themselves ‘nail cutting services’.
41

I have used a chiropodist in the past. If I get problems in the future I will use the one close-by. If I had immobility I
would certainly welcome a new service.

Sometimes the time between appointments means that I have to cut my own nails (with difficulty). The treatment I
receive on the next visit is not very thorough.

When I had my ingrowing toe nails removed last year at Southmead Hospital, the care and aftercare was excellent –
with instructions to phone anytime if more problems arose. However, general foot care, nail cutting or removal of hard
skin on heels is not offered there or at the Lawrence Weston clinic, or the doctors’ health centre, which would help me
very much as I cannot afford a private pedicure.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Women aged 70 to 79

I may need help in the future to trim a persistent corn, which is very difficult for me to reach.

Only ever used chiropodist once – Cannon Street, Bedminster – very good service.

Very difficult to find a chiropodist – impossible on the NHS.

Before I managed to get a private person, I had to attend Knowle Clinic. Although the podiatrist was good, the manner
of the staff was very poor and condescending. Their attitude was suspicion, always referring to people as only after a
free pedicure, which was not their business. So they would actually pick out toes to be treated and nails trimmed, and
leave the rest.

Some chiropodists cut my nails; others reprimand me for not cutting them and tell me to file them. But I tend to lose
my balance when I do. I have to contact Care and Repair to change a light bulb as I lose my balance when I reach up
to change it.

Poor, getting poorer. Hard to get help when needed. Doctors’ surgeries have got larger and larger. Foot care if any
should be offered on the premises, not a bus ride away as now. The foot care should be regular and not the indifferent
service that is offered now. Care in the community it is not, at any level.

When I attended NHS podiatry I was informed that they did not cut toenails. There were far more severe problems.
You will note that I ticked the box saying I would not be prepared to pay £12 to have my nails cut. That is at this stage
in time – perhaps in future.

I did attend my local health centre about once every six weeks, but this service was withdrawn.

No foot care attached to surgery and no help in finding a NHS service.

We have a good foot service at our local surgery, which is free. It’s only every three months although they will try to fit
you in sooner if it’s an emergency. However they won’t cut nails, which I find very frustrating.

I was a full time carer for thirteen years and living in Timsbury. I received foot care. On relocating to Bristol in 2002, I
was refused this service, and due to so many other problems at the time, I could not fight this decision.

I have always for the past ten years paid for my foot care which is every six weeks at the cost of £18.50.

The problem is having to apply every time you need help. At one time you could book a session for roughly three or
four months in advance.
42

I have always paid privately as when we (my husband, when he was alive) first needed foot care – my husband was
an invalid and a diabetic – the waiting list was about 18 weeks for NHS. So we looked for a private chiropodist and
have stuck with him once a month for the last fifteen years. My husband died in October, but I still keep this up for
myself. He has always given us very good and regular care. If he retired then I would be glad to pay the £12 you
suggest for the service through Age Concern.

Too expensive; not always good enough or effective. Cannot use them often enough because of cost. It has just gone
up.

No experience, but I am thinking of finding a good service, but not just nail-cutting.

I would not be prepared to pay £12 a month out of my pension to have my toenails cut.

My doctor at Brooklea Clinic told me to make an appointment to see the clinic’s podiatrist, which I did. But I received a
letter saying they couldn’t see any more pensioners. I was very upset at the time due to the pain in my feet.

NHS only allows an appointment every six months and won’t let you book a new one while you’re there. If you forget
and ring up after five or six months you find that there’s a long wait for an appointment, so your six months may
become eight or nine months. I could do with being seen every three months.

The care I get on my toe I think is very poor. I could do it myself and do a better job on it. My toes were very painful,
so I told the doctor and he sent me to her, but she did not do anything to help. I think she only got the job because of
who she knows. She did not get the job because she knows what is to do. I do not think she got any good training.
She only got the job because of who she knows.

For years I have had to have a professional foot care service as my nails are so hard with arthritis and ingrowing.
However, once retired we had a free service at our local clinic that was marvellous – but unfortunately when this lady
retired they decided no more nail cutting at the clinic. Even my friend who is registered blind was expected to cut her
own! So I was lucky enough to find my present foot care lady who visits my home.

NHS treatment should be readily available. Advice and care should be available. Pain is ignored when it should be
treated – it will go away.

Whenever I have a problem with corns under my foot I have to go to the clinic and tell them about it. They write to
whom it may concern. Sometimes I have to wait three months then I get a letter to go to the clinic and they treat my
corn. When the corn gets better I am discharged. If it comes back again I have to let them not put me on the waiting
list. They don’t cut toe nails; they say they are not allowed to.

I would be willing to pay for nail cutting and hard skin treatment which, at the moment, I do with some difficulty.

I have paid for a chiropodist to come to my house. My personal problems are bunions and foot arthritis – no solution
available.

Very long waiting list for NHS care.

I think doctors’ waiting rooms should have a list of foot care professionals available to the elderly. I think it is a waste
of a doctor’s time to ask them about services such as nail cutting. I feel many elderly people would be happy just to
get their nails cut at reasonable cost.

I get good care in having my feet done as I go to my NHS clinic in Seymour Road and have done for the last ten years.

Only cut toe nails, no hard skin, no massaging – money for old rope.

The NHS should provide foot care services for all over 70.
43

I think it is wrong that you have to be assessed before you can get treatment by NHS podiatry. This service should be
available to all elderly people.

I use a foot spa to keep my feet in good condition, but I realize I am lucky enough to be fit enough to cope with the
filling and emptying and bending over. Once I cannot do this I shall have to seek help and would not know where to
start. Foot care is essential for older people. The foot spa and use of pumice and toe nail cutting makes me feel so
good, and I dread growing older and not coping.

Am I alone in feeling uncertain about whether or not I should be consulting foot care services? Should one have
periodic checkups?

It was not until I was given a present of some luxury podiatry at Scholls that I was diagnosed with fallen arches and
supplied with arch supports.

All my problems stem from arthritis, which at the moment is very bad.

As my problem is not attributed to older age – having lived with it for 46 years – I’ve had NHS service once about 25
years ago. But I was not impressed with my treatment or advice. I’ve learned my own lessons and have coped
without further need of the NHS. My visits for foot care were merely for luxury which included nail clipping.

I was referred by my GP to the foot department at the BRI at the beginning of February 2007. I attended Hampton
House, Cotham Hill for assessment and told that I would be referred to a clinic to have ‘braces’ fitted to try and
straighten my big toes and avoid surgery. Six months later in August and being housebound as I was unable to get my
shoes on I wrote to the coordinator who had assessed me in February. She phoned me and also sent a letter stating
that I was on the waiting list of Knowle Clinic. Having heard nothing I did as the coordinator suggested and phoned
Knowle in November. I received an appointment to attend not Knowle Clinic but Hampton Clinic again for another
assessment in January 2008. This was followed by another letter cancelling the appointment, and two more
rearranging it for later dates. Is it my age, nationality or what, or because I complained about the long wait in February
2007?

Podiatry services were removed from my local health centre at Whitchurch to Knowle Clinic over a year ago, during rebuilding of Whitchurch Health Centre. It is not an easy venue to reach and involves a long walk from my available bus
route. Apparently there are no plans to return this service to Whitchurch. I can’t be the only person inconvenienced by
this.

My only problem has been an ongoing fungal thing beneath my big toenails. Doctor said there was a pill I could take
but this would cause a few side effects. Didn’t want to go down that road as the problem causes me no trouble.

I am fortunate in that I live close to the clinic where the service is provided. The only drawback I find is the waiting time
to get an appointment – it can be four or five weeks.

I would like to have my feet done more often.

The service I had was good, but only a once off. I think it’s disgusting that we can’t have a free foot service after being
over seventy. If foot problems aren’t treated promptly it can lead to more serious conditions, costing the NHS more
money and taking up beds in hospitals.

Not sure who you will see (some are far more thorough than others). They seem unaware (unless reminded) that I am
diabetic and instead of an appointment every six weeks have been given dates of fourteen weeks apart. Do they have
no record of their patients and their needs?

My private podiatrist will be out of the country for three months. I have applied for help from the NHS at my local clinic.
44

I have been lucky enough to have good treatment in Henbury myself. But I do know a few elderly people who have
had a real problem getting to see an NHS chiropodist.

I would not know where to go but could not pay a lot for it. So far I try my own but some of my nails are getting very
hard to do. I have been lucky so far but some friends pay £25 per visit.

There aren’t enough NHS chiropodists in my area. I live in Southville and the nearest one is St Johns Lane. I used to
visit the one in the pharmacists on Cannon Street, but it finished there. Too far to walk to St Johns Lane.

Four years ago I had a toe on my left foot shortened because it protruded. The doctor warned me that it might return –
it has. I have bunions on both feet but as they don’t hurt they were left.

We have a good service from our foot care service. He comes to several flats at Field Marshal Slim Court, gives an
appointment time and is comfortable and always on time. He charges £15 a visit.

I have had no experience of foot care other than from my husband. I would like to have professional care, but none
available for just nail clipping.

The podiatrist has ceased to cut my nails at the last three times. So my husband does his best as he has problems of
his own. I help him do his nails. He has diabetes and can’t get to do his nails owing to his hip trouble and I fear I
might cut his skin and what might happen if I do. For the last eight years I had nails cut for me.

Visit to one chiropodist (not podiatrist) recently – usual one not available at the time – was waste of time. Anything
beyond nail cutting seemed above his ability. NHS treatment excellent – no hesitation in referring to GP if considered
necessary.

Only had private use for past two years. Did not know of any other.

Referred by doctor to clinic for nail cutting and was told by them that they were not a nail cutting service and I now
have private professional podiatry to care for my feet – which I must say I am well satisfied with.

I received NHS podiatry for a callus covering a corn which has now improved, so my appointments were stopped. I
still have bunions, calluses, hard toe nails, arthritis, weak knees, but NHS treatment is not available to me. If I was on
benefits I would still be able to have treatment, even though the original problem had been cleared up. Why?

I used to go to a chiropodist on the Gloucester Road, Horfield, but I found it wasn’t very clean and not good. Now I
have been to the chemist in Horfield. Apart from being expensive at £24 a time, the chiropodist didn’t see to corns and
file my toe nails. As I have bunions I am inclined to get corns between my toes also on top of toes which I can’t deal
with myself.

A basic nail cutting service (monthly) at half the suggested fee would be a real boon for older people. Foot
examination at Southmead Hospital is extremely thorough – follow up apparently rather slow.

My care costs £11 for pensioners. Apart from private, I do not know of any foot care for pensioners in Bristol.

I visit the local surgery for my foot care. The podiatrist is very good and caring but I do feel the charges made are
quite high.

I wanted to arrange podiatry service for AHASEA (Asian Elderly Health and Social Care Association) but so far have
not bee able to get any.

Still waiting for an appointment at Southmead after GP referral, but have private treatment every six to eight weeks.
45

National Health Services are almost impossible to get. Private care is expensive at £18+. We all should have monthly
foot care, including massage.

At my previous doctor’s surgery in Clifton I received excellent service once I had been given access to the system
(Homeopathic Hospital). In the last eighteen months I have had difficulty accessing foot care and it is an erratic
service. The care is not quite up to my previous care. Fortunately my husband helps me with my foot care.

Stockwood health centre used to provide chiropody, physio, audio, ECG and treatment room open am and pm. Now
no chiropody, physio at General Hospital, X rays and ECG at the BRI, and treatment room only open half a day.
Surgery only two and a half hours twice a day, and half a day off each week. We are isolated as bus services do not
take us near enough to other venues. Whitchurch health centre has it all and we can’t even get there! Just thought I’d
let you know problems besides chiropody. Large elderly population here and we don’t all drive. Health centre is not a
health centre any more.

Five or six years ago I had a very good service from Whitchurch health clinic to help me overcome flat feet. An insert
was provided to support the fallen arch. I still use it. This service is no longer available. All podiatry needs are now
referred to Knowle Clinic.

Foot care was available at my health centre but I was stopped from attending as the surgery was too full.

For many years I have had foot care at home for my convenience rather than poor health. My surgical chiropodist is
HPS registered and MBCHA qualified, but due to the rise in costs we drive to her premises at present. The attention I
receive is excellent and well worth the fee of £20.

NHS do not provide just nail cutting. They say file nails. This can be difficult bending with breathing problems. Nails
need to be cut. When they do cut it is not very good. Paying a professional you get a much better result. You can ask
them to cut them shorter and file rough edges as you are paying – expensive at £30.

I had a hip operation about two and a half years ago. I made arrangements for appointment to access foot care, but
because I could lean over that was enough for her to tell me I could cut my own toenails. I did have private podiatry
but found it too expensive (£16). So I struggle to cut my own. I can bend over for so long and then I have to rest.

I have not had foot care because I don’t like people touching my feet. I am just about managing to cut my toenails
myself with difficulty! Also I have enlarged joints and bunions on some toes.

At present my feet need trained staff to deal with the complex problems. My excellent private podiatrist formerly
worked for the NHS. She left and went private, she said because she was not permitted to use what she thought the
patient needed but only had access to cheaper and a limited range of tools and products. I was first referred to NHS
podiatry in June 2006 – waited a month and was then seen at Hampton House on the emergency list. I was told I
needed the dermatology clinic and was too complicated for podiatry. As my three verrucas and overwhelming athlete’s
foot infection would not wait, I made a private appointment for the following day. I think I would not have been seen for
four months or more. After this appointment I recovered my ability to walk as she made my feet less painful. Two
months ago I was referred to NHS podiatry again (as infection around ingrowing toe nail was getting steadily worse
and nurses said it was not their job to deal with the spike of the toenail. I got a letter back saying there was a long
waiting list for assessment and that I would not be able to be treated at first appointment. I could only be taken on their
list if my needs were ‘critical and substantial’.

Long wait for appointments for podiatry. Long delay in provision of insoles.

As a diabetic I did receive podiatry care for a while at Lockleaze Health Centre, but was told this was no longer
available to diabetics.

As a diabetic I get my feet checked yearly by the diabetic nurse.
46

I use NHS podiatry. The only problem is that at every thirteen weeks the toe nails are much too long and sometimes
the care is a little later. They come to my home and are happy to do anything to ensure my feet are ok, checking up
on my diabetes every time. Wonderful people – and I do not pay.

I am currently waiting for a NHS podiatry appointment which was requested by my doctor three months ago.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Women aged 80 and over

£12 is a lot of money for a basic service. It would be nice to have chiropody treatment rather than just cutting nails.
People would pay more for this service.

I was receiving free foot care but suddenly I was removed form this service. I now have private foot care.

I would certainly be happy to pay £12 each time providing I could have the service at home (as I do at present paying
£18.50 a time). I am 82 years old and waiting for a knee joint replacement.

I haven’t been able to access foot care on the NHS.

I would like foot care on the NHS in this district.

The surgery I attend said I could have a diseased big toenail removed, but I could not take advantage of that because
there is no one to care for me while I would be incapacitated with two flights of stairs to get to my apartment.

I live in sheltered accommodation. The state registered chiropodist and podiatrist visit alternate months. She is very
good and I am very happy with the service and I have to pay privately.

I always used the foot care surgery until my lady said no more toenails to be trimmed. So there was no point in my
going.

I usually get an appointment every ten or twelve weeks, cutting nails etc. I had an appointment for the normal ten
weeks, then I had a letter altering the appointment to seventeen weeks. When I complained they altered it a little, but
then on the date they phoned and altered it again! I have never had this trouble before. I was giving up on them and
going to see someone privately.

The local council tax and cost of house maintenance gives no margin for extra foot care. I need foot treatment and
think all senior citizens should have access to this.

I pay at present less than £12 every six weeks. I am on income support and it would be very hard for me to pay £12 a
visit - lucky my bus fare is free now, which is great help getting to my podiatry.

It would be better to pay a larger fee to have everything dealt with rather than just a £12 fee for nail cutting. Private
foot care services vary as far as hygiene, equipment and actual service. Treatment varies from adequate to very
good.

In the past I have attended the NHS clinic but the fifteen minutes every three months was inadequate. I now have
private podiatry at home which costs £30 a visit

NHS hospital offered to operate on my left foot. I declined. At my age I did not wish to be incapable of being mobile
for six or eight weeks. I understand I can reapply again should the problem become more difficult. I was pleased to be
asked to fill in this form as a lot of my generation are being overlooked.

Each time you need to go to the foot clinic you have to reapply to Southmead to get a referral which can be a nuisance
and seemingly unnecessary waste of time in getting attention.
47

I’ve used private podiatry on two occasions but usually I do my own nail cutting. But I can’t bend now owing to
giddiness.

Broadbury Road Clinic is excellent.

Once my doctor told me to see the chiropodist at the surgery. But the secretary argued with me that I could not see
him that day because I did not have an appointment. I insisted that the doctor wanted me to get it attended to that day,
the only day the chiropodist was at the surgery. I saw the chiropodist who treated my foot and said he would see me
the next Thursday. But when I asked the secretary for an appointment again she argued that I had to wait six weeks.
Eventually she gave me a date but it was on a day when he was not there, so it was a painful and wasted journey for
me. So that is why I went private.

Basic nail cutting is provided by our local health centre. But I have a lot of hard horny skin which gets painful. Also
fallen arches affect balance.

I often have to wait two or three weeks to get an appointment.

I pay £10 a month but suffer from burning under my toes.

I would say there are not enough podiatrists practising for the NHS.

The reason I visited the podiatrist was because I had an ingrowing toenail for assessment. I went to Shields Avenue,
Northville, but for the operation I had to go to the clinic at Downend and my son had to take time from work to take me
because I live in Bristol and my doctor is in South Gloucestershire and they wouldn’t supply transport.

I visit a local chiropodist who cuts my toenails and removes hard skin. I have bunions, occasional corns, and swollen
ankles. A lack of balance means that I cannot use public transport. I live alone and am 90 years old. My visits to the
chiropodist are on foot. In bad weather I use taxis, which are expensive. He makes it clear that his function lies solely
with toenails and hard skin. One big problem I have is with shoes – I have been wearing the same ones for ages.
Damart was very useful, but they left Bristol some time ago. Good, accessible podiatry would make a big difference to
my life.

I only pay about £12 or £13 for private treatment, so the above new service suggested would not be any different.

If the new service was available in Parbrook Court it might be considered.

Went to the local clinic – absolutely useless. Said she did not cut nails and that to keep feet in good condition I should
always wear trainers! I was then in my late seventies and have been dancing for the last forty odd years.

I have never yet used foot care services but I am getting to the stage where I think I do need a little help cutting my
toenails. Don’t mind paying.

I have had foot problems for many years and I find it imperative to have podiatry approximately every five or six weeks.
At present I am lucky to have a visiting podiatrist here at Guardian Court, Clifton. Between visits I try to keep both feet
creamed and reasonably filed on the hard skin areas. I shall always require foot care at regular intervals. Every four
weeks would ideal but a bit costly at £12 per session.

The podiatrist does not cut toenails if you are not diabetic at my clinic. I would like my toe nails cut but she is not
allowed to.

It would be helpful to be able to access a service which cut toe nails and removed hard skin, say, every three or four
months.

Four months is a long time between visits because the nails grow fairly quickly for me and my toenails become painful.
I do use a substance to soften the nail and this gives me some relief.
48

I have often been in hospital (cancer). The last time I came home from Southmead twelve months ago. I had a
chiropodist visit me. They visited me three times but I have not heard a word for four months now. I will ring to find out
if they are visiting me again, otherwise I will have to make inquiries to find someone.

I would not be in my situation without being able to pay privately. I used to attend the NHS podiatrist at Whatley Road
clinic. The arrangements for appointments became very complicated, so I left and went private. I have used private
podiatry for many years. When one clinic closed I was able to find another, then that changed and recently I go to
someone who was an assistant – qualified – at my last one. I drive there by car – I have a blue badge. My problem is
that I had bad corns which kept becoming septic. The podiatrist and my GP agreed that I should see an orthopaedic
specialist. This I did and BUPA paid. My toes which were curled up since childhood were straightened and all was
well when they had settled down. Two years later a toe in each foot became displaced and overlapped the next door
one. I saw the surgeon again and he amputated these toes – one from each foot. This was October 2006. The right
foot has settled and is not painful. My left foot gives me discomfort in the small fifth toe. The podiatrist says it is a pity
that one was not straightened. As a result I walk with a stick and cannot keep up with other people. I have carers and
they do my shopping. I get attendance allowance but I have a good income anyway.

The Whitchurch Health Centre was marvellous. I attended there several times, but have not been to the Knowle Clinic
in Broadfield Road for over a year as I found forward appointments were not entered correctly. I considered it was not
managed to the standard of Whitchurch. I have a slight heart problem amongst other things and I struggle to do them
myself.

I am satisfied with what I have. She is qualified and charges a very reasonable rate. Also if I have any other foot
problems, from her experience, she would recognise any changes. I feel the £15 I pay is a very good price indeed.

I am unable to get foot care services from my local health clinic and have been paying for private care.

I do not get the care that I need. They take away my disabled parking space. They promise to assist my mobility and
then don’t turn up. They just don’t care about me and I don’t know what to do.

I have tried to get NHS clinic to attend at home but told there is six to nine months waiting list and it must be passed by
doctor.

I was referred to the podiatry service because of an ulcer on my foot. I have found the podiatrists who visit me very
good and caring.

I have attended an NHS foot clinic at a local health centre three times since I was found to be slightly diabetic – for
basic checkups. Nail cutting included once, and now nail clippings sent for fungus analysis. I was treated privately
once before this. Very good care – better than NHS.

Poor service from NHS at my surgery. Reason for having to go private. Being diabetic, I thought this to be poor.

I already have my nails cut at the clinic (no charge). If this was not so, then I would pay £12 each time. The clinic cuts
my nails four times a year, for which I am very grateful.

The foot care is too far for me to attend as I have trouble climbing and walking.

The podiatry services at Shirehampton clinic are very good, helpful and friendly.

Home carers will not now help with foot care or help put on elastic stockings which I have to wear.

I went private because the nearest place was too far away. It would have costed £6 each way by taxi.

I go to a chiropodist every two months and she is first class.

The time gap between NHS podiatry visits is much too long at 12 weeks. So I had to engage a private podiatrist at
shorter intervals. NHS visits are only ten to fifteen minutes which is too short to discuss foot problems. I am eligible to
have NHS treatment as I have rheumatoid arthritis.
49

It would be of great help if there was a service for sharpening nail scissors.

I had one visit to a NHS podiatrist when I was expecting to have my toe nails trimmed due to diabetes. But I was told I
could use a file and do it myself at home.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Men aged 55 to 69

I use Michael Wall in Broomhill, and I am very happy with him. I see him every six weeks at a cost of £11 each visit.

I know from people who want NHS treatment that there are long waiting times. That is why I am treated privately near
my home, four times a year.

I am awaiting an appointment for a podiatrist. There is a long list.

When a GP refers people to podiatry the waiting time is far too long. Leaving a person in pain is unfair.

I have no problems except occasionally cutting my nails and my wife can then assist.

My doctor arranged for me to visit Broadfield Road foot clinic, Knowle Park, but they do not want me. Their attitude
and lack of concern drove me into going private.

We have a good service from our clinic at Eastville. My wife and I attend every three months. I’m an insulin diabetic,
so I can get an instant appointment the same day of asking. The clinic is part and parcel of my GP’s surgery. It is
excellent.

I went for the foot treatment twice (podiatry), but I was very quickly examined and treated. They did not cut all the toe
nails except the one that required some treatment. I was told to be reported again after six months. I should have
been called earlier like after three months.

I see my doctor/nurse. I have diabetes.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Men aged 70 to 79

The NHS service has in the past been good, but now has had the funding cut so it stops people such as me from
enjoying a good service.

Foot care services for the elderly are non-existent especially in the Henbury area. I do think some elderly people could
afford to pay £12.

The only foot problems I have had are hard skin on the sole and corns on the ball of my foot. I treat hard skin with foot
cream. I had advice from the local surgery.

Not a lot of NHS help. Always a long wait.

I have used a private chiropodist, but not in the last twelve months. My wife uses the same person regularly. We are
very satisfied with the care and the cost is reasonable. People should be prepared to pay, as with spectacles.

Visited General Hospital and I was given the phone number of the Knowle surgery. But I have not yet used it. I live in
Whitchurch.
50

My close relations have to pay about £25 a month and that is not acceptable with a pension – not related to the rest of
society – and not available through the NHS.

Once you reach a certain age, foot care should be provided free for all.

It is an offence to call oneself a chiropodist or podiatrist subject to a £5000 fine if not so qualified. But there are people
unqualified offering ‘nail cutting services’ or similar to get around not having proper qualifications.

As a diabetic, I receive good service through the local surgery.

Diabetic nurse checks my feet on each visit. Own GP is excellent about my foot conditions. Currently having
treatment for infection of both great toes – with prescribed treatment drugs supplied by GP and performed by my wife.

The last time I was seen by a NHS chiropodist she told me she would only see me if I had foot problems. I visit my
diabetic nurse every six months and she tells me the chiropodist should examine my feet every six months – who is
right?

My diabetes checks include sensitivity foot testing. No problems so far.

I can’t always make appointments.

I am still waiting after three months to have podiatry care in Horfield.

£12 seems a lot of money out of an old age pension just to get nails cut.

I am supposed to have an annual foot check due to my diabetes. In the past five or so years I have been seen twice.
My diabetic nurse sends reminders to the podiatry department at a nearby medical centre – and sod-all happens. It is
high time Avonmouth had its own service instead of having to rely on that rabble at Shirehampton.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Men aged 80 and over

When I was living in Kent, an Age Concern representative advised us at a meeting to use a file every day if possible. I
have found this to be excellent advice. But I realise not many elderly people are capable of using this method.

Ingrowing toe nails dealt with at Southmead Hospital chiropody department. No further problems. I have difficulty
reaching to cut my toe nails.

Went to my local doctor for NHS podiatry care but told they no longer cut nails and I should get a neighbour or relative
to do it. I have a job in both seeing nails and bending down (86 years young).

I cannot afford to pay. All of our pensioners’ costs are going up, but our income does not keep pace. We are poorer
each year. The Government know this. We could kneel down and plead – I won’t do that.

Long wait for NHS treatment. I have to use private service.

Foot care for diabetics is provided free at my local health centre.

I receive regular attention from a qualified foot carer via NHS, and four times a year especially as I am a diabetic. My
main complaint is that you are requested to wait two months before making an appointment, by then the list is full up
and your three months is filled up. Only a chiropodist is not enough in this district with only service on Fridays – why
can’t there be more chiropodists and more days available, especially for emergencies?

On the advice of the diabetic clinic I rub a little cream into the soles of my feet daily, and examine them for any
problems. So far, so good.
51

I like to go every eight weeks. It is very good.

Old age is a painful experience.

I can obtain this service locally for £10, so I wouldn’t pay £12.

The wife and I always have very good service at Knowle Clinic which enables us to walk much better, without pain.

My feet gave five years to England 1940-45 – who cares? When I need foot care in the future (my next birthday will
take me to 84 years) the NHS should take care of my feet.

I am quite satisfied with the podiatry service at the local health centre at Knowle.

My wife pays £11 each time she visits the chiropodist. I am very lucky having healthy feet, for which I thank the Boy
Scout movement and Baden Powell.

As I understand, there is no regular foot care service for the elderly by the NHS.

Please note there is another complaint which is different but needs to be covered – gout.

I am not eligible to be treated in a NHS surgery as I do not have rheumatoid arthritis like my wife. Lately I have
engaged a private podiatrist.

A professional podiatrist visits us and several others here. We always have an appointment and he is very reliable.
He charges £15 a visit.

Apart from yearly diabetic examinations, I find little trouble with my feet, except cutting my toe nails, which my wife
does for me.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
52