Newsletter August
Did not attend
In July 2025 187 patients who did not attend their appointments. Each appointment can be “worth” up to £120. Please ensure we are informed if a patient is unable to attend as soon as possible so we can give the appointment to another patient who needs it.
We operate a three strike rule, if we have received no communication and have offered support with attending appointments, we may apply to NHS England to have a patient removed from our practice list.
Measles
Measles cases are on the rise in the UK. Vaccination is vital to protect both your own children and those around you who are vulnerable.
Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent many infectious diseases, and while anti-vaccine stories are often spread on social media, these may not be based on scientific evidence and could put your child at risk of a serious illness.
Facts:
- Vaccines do not cause autism – studies have found no evidence of a link between the MMR vaccine and autism
- They do not overload or weaken the immune system
- Vaccines undergo rigorous safety testing before being introduced – they’re also constantly monitored for side effects
If people are not vaccinated, serious illnesses can spread. Measles can lead to life-threatening complications like meningitis, and may even be fatal. Book your child’s vaccine today.
NHS App
Not sure where to start with using the NHS App? The NHS App can be so useful for you as a patient, for ordering your prescriptions, for checking your messages and even appointments. If you’re new to using a smartphone, or finding it difficult to navigate, this leaflet is helpful: Age UK leaflet
If you’d like some one-to-one help, pop in to see a member of our admin team.
Extreme temperatures
This summer we’ve experienced temperatures far exceeding previous years, and it doesn’t look set to end anytime soon.
Hot weather can cause health issues in the young and vulnerable, and can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, lung problems and other diseases. People with underlying medical conditions can also be vulnerable to the effects of hot weather.
It’s important for everyone to take a few steps to keep cool when the heat rises:
- Drink plenty of clear fluids throughout the day; don’t wait until you’re thirsty
- Limit alcohol intake
- Avoid caffeine; opt for water or juices
- If you’re going to do a physical activity, plan to do this during times of the day when it’s cooler
- Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day
- If you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, seek shade and apply sunscreen
- Keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
Keep an eye on those around you for any signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke; they may need rapid treatment so it’s important to know the signs: Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather – GOV.UK
Coping with stress
It’s the school summer holidays and parents often find themselves managing work, noise and much more! Juggling parenting with other responsibilities can make you feel overwhelmed. It’s really important to consider your own wellbeing, to prevent you feeling a little burnt out. Parental self-care is super important, yet often it’s more likely to be neglected during the summer break.
Consider taking up a new physical activity, meet some friends in a park for a chat and a playdate, or find local fun days to attend. The six weeks will fly by!
How parents can take the stress out of the summer break
