COVID-19 vaccination centres are now available for eligible adults here. For children's vaccinations you can via the National Booking Service website.

We know we’re stronger together. This Stoptober, join thousands of people committing to quitting smoking.

Ask at reception to be referred to our health and wellbeing coach for help and support to stop smoking.

Alternatively contact  Smokefree Wiltshire - Wiltshire Council

Quit smoking this Stoptober - Better Health - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

It’s World Perimenopause Day.

Perimenopause is one of the three stages of menopause and may cause both physical and mental health symptoms.

Perimenopause is the time from the start of menopausal symptoms until after a woman has experienced her last period. Periods will usually start to become less frequent over a few months or years before they stop altogether. They might be more irregular and become heavier or lighter.

Here they explain more about symptoms and treatment options you can explore:

 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/

Today is World Mental Health Day. It's a day to raise awareness of mental health problems. But more and more of us are aware of mental health. And so many of us still aren't getting the right support.

The official theme for this year’s event is ‘Mental health is a universal human right’, as set by the World Federation for Mental Health.

There are little things we can all do to lift our mood or ease our anxiety – we need to find what works for us.

This could be as simple as taking a walk in nature, prioritising our sleep or opening up to a friend. Our little thing, if we keep doing it, will make a big difference to how we feel.

Please see below resources and links to help you, family, friends and work colleagues get the support they need.

BBC - Information and Support - Mental Health

Every Mind Matters - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Free mental health support by text | Your care Your support Wiltshire

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

Let's unite in the fight against breast cancer and spread awareness about early detection and support.

Throughout the month of October we will share advice on early detection, prevention and where to go for support.

Thursday 5th October 2023

10:30- Noon

The Kings Arms Hotel

20 Market Place

Melksham

Have we asked you to provide a urine or stool sample? If so, please get your sample to us before 4:30pm to ensure it's collected that afternoon.

The flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to adults who:

• are 65 and over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2024)
• have certain health conditions
• are pregnant
• are in long-stay residential care
• receive a carer's allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
• live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system, such as someone living with HIV, someone who has had a transplant, or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis

For those eligable and have their appointments booked, they will be held here at the Surgery.

It's #NationalBreastfeedingWeek, and everyone has a part to play.
 
Over the next week we'll be sharing lots of tips and advice to help with your breastfeeding journey.
 
For more information, head to: https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/baby/feeding-your-baby/breastfeeding/

Wednesday 13th December

6pm

Wiltshire Air Ambulance are holding a drop in emergency awareness training session. 

Melksham Market Place

10am -2pm 

Around 1 in 4 adults in the UK have high blood pressure, but many don’t know it.
It can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Find out how to get checked, understand what your numbers mean and how to manage your risk.

We have a blood pressure machine ain reception, so pop in and check yours today.

Click Here for more information

Download the NHS App or open the NHS website up and login to access a range of NHS services online.

NHS App and your NHS account - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Celebrating Age Wiltshire are excited to bring Grandma and the Lion to The Riverside Centre, Melksham on Tuesday 12^th of September. A show full of heart felt storytelling and stunning puppetry.

This is a FREE event for older people, but booking is required

Measles cases are rising in England.

Make sure your child is up to date with their MMR vaccinations.

For more information visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/mmr-vaccine/

If you are struggling with the cost of essentials you may be able to receieve extra support via Wiltshire Council VISIT

Where:
This course is run virtually on Zoom.
When:

Carers Information and Support programme 1 courses start dates and times:
• Wednesday 02nd August 2023 10:00
• Thursday 12th October 2023 10:00
• Monday 08th January 2024 10:00

Carers information and Support Programme 2 course start date and time:
• Tuesday 23rd January 2024 10:00

To find out more, contact us on:
crispbswd@alzheimers.org.uk

Today is #SelfCareDay. 💙

Take a moment to reflect on your wellbeing. It’s important to make time for yourself and the things that help improve your mood.

Here are a few tips you can try: nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-wellbeing-tips

Today is #SelfCareDay. 💙: 

The Lullaby Trust's  safer sleep advice gives simple steps for how you can sleep your baby to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) which is commonly known as cot death. It can give you the peace of mind to enjoy this special time.

Their advice is based on strong scientific evidence and should be followed for all sleep periods, not just at night.

If you have any questions about SIDS or safer sleep, please call our information line on 0808 802 6869 (lines open Monday-Friday 10am-2pm).

For more information click the link below.

Safer Sleep for babies presentations - The Lullaby Trust

The 24/7 text messaging support service provides free confidential support for anyone in Wiltshire who is struggling with their mental health. As it is free, it will not appear on anyone's phone bill.

To use the service, people should text the word 'WILTS' to 85258. This will start a text conversation with a trained volunteer who will aim to get the texter to a calm and safe place, with a plan of what they are going to do to support themselves moving forward. This will include providing information about local support services where required.

The service can help with:

• anxiety and stress
• depression or sadness
• suicidal thoughts
• self-harm
• panic attacks
• loneliness or isolation
• abuse
• bullying

If you’re looking after someone who is living with dementia, Wiltshire Council and Carer Support Wiltshire are seeking your views on dementia support in the county.

For more information Visit

Deafblind Awareness Week is 26th June to 2nd July, and this year's theme is: Tune in to your sight and hearing. 

We're here for everyone living with deafblindness - right from day one. Your support means more people will know the early sights of deafblindness, and where to get support from the start of their journey.

Deafblind Awareness Week is always at the end of June, to mark Helen Keller’s birthday. Helen Keller is one of the most well-known deafblind people in history. She campaigned tirelessly to improve the treatment of deaf and blind people and to raise awareness of sight and hearing health.

Click here to find out more

*Cervical Screening Awareness Week*

Going for your cervical screening isn’t always easy, and everyone’s experience is different. So many changes in life, from big milestones to how we feel day-to-day, can have an impact.

This week is about raising awareness.

If you have your invitation via letter please book online or call reception 01225 709311.

Click Here for more information

It is National Diabetes Week. 

Do you have diabetes, or are you at risk of developing diabetes? 

Understanding diabetes and what you can do to support your diabetes control is extremely empowering. Also understanding what you can do to reduce your risk if developing diabetes make you feel more in control of your future health. 

The NHS has developed an education programme which is free and online is filled with information about Type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and what you can do to reduce your risk of diabetes. 

Click on the link to register and start learning today

https://healthyliving.nhs.uk/

Morning blood sugar, pre-meal blood sugar, counting carbs. HbA1c, blood pressure, how many carbs were in that sandwich again? Diabetes can feel like a never-ending stream of numbers. And some days, they just don’t add up. 

Diabetes doesn't stop, but neither do you. You juggle the ups and downs, you face diabetes head on every morning (whatever your blood sugar!) and you don’t let it hold you back. 

So, this Diabetes Week, we want to celebrate everything that makes you, you. Because you’re so much more than your numbers.

We had the most wonderful time supporting our unpaid carers in out community with an afternoon of tea and chat. Our next event will be in the summer. Details to follow.

Tuesday 6^th June

2pm-4pm

An Afternoon of Tea and Chat.

All welcome

Our health and wellbeing team will be here with advice and support.

Information from Carer Support Wiltshire.

Alzheimer’s support with also be here.

This  explains the availability of hay fever products (antihistamines) across Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon & Wiltshire

What is hay fever?

Hay fever is a common condition also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis and affects around 1 in 5 people in the UK. It often runs in families and is more likely to affect people who suffer from asthma and eczema. It is an allergic condition where the body’s immune system overreacts to substances that are usually harmless, for example pollen from grasses, flowers, weeds, or trees. The pollen causes the release of chemical called histamine from cells in the nose, eyes, and airways, which cause inflammation. Some people suffer symptoms all year round; they can be allergic to indoor allergens such as house dust mites, pets and indoor moulds. This is called perennial allergic rhinitis.

More information is available at: www.nhs.uk and www.patient.co.uk

 What signs and symptoms do people with Hay fever experience?

 Examples may include any of the following:

• Itchy blocked or runny nose
• Red, itchy puffy or watery eyes
• Itchy throat
• Headaches and sinus pain
• Fatigue

What is NHS Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire ICB (BSW ICB)?

 The Integrated Care Board (ICB) is responsible for the planning and purchasing of the vast majority of health services across the area - this includes hospital care, mental health and community services.

 It works closely with all GP practices across BSW ICB.

 Contact us

 Website: https://bsw.icb.nhs.uk/

Patient advice and liaison team (PALs)

Patients registered across BSW practices- Scwcsu.palscomplaints@nhs.net

Why can patients no longer have antihistamine products on prescription?

 In February 2017, NHS Bath and North East Somerset Integrated Care Board (ICB) decided to stop funding prescriptions of hay fever products (antihistamines) to all but the most vulnerable patients. This difficult decision was made because of the urgent need to make financial savings in the NHS. BSW ICB support this decision in line with NHS England Guidance on conditions for which over the counter items should not routinely be prescribed in primary care.

 Why was this decision made?

 Hay fever products are widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies. It is cheaper for patients to buy these products over the counter than it is for the NHS to buy them. This is one way patients can help the NHS – by buying their own hay fever medicine, so the money the NHS saves can be used to fund other treatments.

 Managing your hay fever

The severity of symptoms can vary, some people need medication to manage their symptoms and others can manage their condition by avoiding triggers. If treatment is needed, a wide range of medications can be purchased from community pharmacies and supermarkets without seeing a doctor.

What if patients can’t get a supply of anti- histamine medication locally?

 The ICB has made sure there is a good spread of retail outlets across our county that stock a wide variety of competitively priced antihistamine hay fever medication.

 What treatments can I buy?

 Speak to a local pharmacist to get advice on the best treatment for your symptoms and always read the patient information leaflet that is included with the medicine. Examples include:

• Antihistamine tablets and syrups: generally effective at controlling symptoms of hay fever

. • Nasal sprays: useful if you suffer nasal symptoms and can be used instead of, or in addition to, antihistamine tablets

. • Eye drops: if your eye symptoms cannot be controlled with oral antihistamines, eye drops containing Sodium Cromoglicate or Lodoxamide may be useful.

• Other useful treatments: simple pain relief (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen) can help with headaches and sinus pain. Throat lozenges can help ease tickly throats and palates. Decongestant tablets should relieve blocked noses- always consult a pharmacist if you are on prescribed medication.

How to avoid triggers?

• Keep house and car windows closed, especially when the pollen count is high (early morning between 7am and 9am and evenings between 5pm and 7pm).
• Avoid large, grassy areas, woodland, cutting the grass, pollutants, and car fumes.
• Wear wrap-around sunglasses.
• When you get in from outside, wash your hands, face, hair, rinse your eyes and change your clothes.
• If possible, stay indoors when the pollen count is high
• You can buy pollen filters for car air

Are you a young person looking after someone? Or maybe your child is helping out with someone you look after? Whatever your situation - have a look at our Young Carer website for information, advice and support for young carers and parents.

Click Here for more information or ask at reception.

People aged 75 or above, or those with a weakened immune system, can now book their spring COVID-19 vaccine.

You can book through the NHS App, by calling 119 

or visit

COVID-19 vaccination - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

This message originated from outside of NHSmail. Please do not click links or open attachments unless you recognise the sender and know the content is safe.

A Stroke is a medical emergency. The FAST test can help you recognise the most common signs.

🔹Facial weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?

🔹Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms?

🔹Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?

🔹Time to call 999: if you see any of these signs.

Make sure you and your loved ones all know the FAST test.

 Click here for more information.

#StrokeAwarenessMonth2023

Find a Pharmacy

Coronation Bank Holiday opening hours. Visit 111 online or call 111 for medical assistance when we are closed.

IF YOU HAVE A LIFE-THREATENING MEDICAL EMERGENCY, PLEASE DIAL 999.

Wendy Clayton Alzheimer’s Support volunteer will be here at the surgery this afternoon 2pm-4pm.

Do you have any concerns about a relative becoming forgetful?

Not sure what to expect as you get older?

Wendy can give information and answer your questions.

Remember to order and collect your prescriptions in plenty of time.

Get the kids moving with these fun games inspired by some of their favourite Disney characters.

These boredom-busting activities will help them reach the 60 active minutes they need every day!

10 Minute Shake Up games – Healthier Families - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Covid-19 is more serious in older people and those with certain underlying health problems. For these reasons, people over 75 years, those in care homes for older adults and individuals aged 5 yrs. and over with a weakened immune system are being offered a Spring booster of the Covid-19 vaccine.

If you turn 75 between April and June you will be called for a vaccine, you do not have to wait for your birthday.

You will receive an invitation to get a vaccine either locally or nationally.

Please do not phone us at the Surgery as we are unable to book or advise you about the Covid-19 vaccine.

To book a vaccine please do this online using the National Booking Service Book, cancel or change a COVID-19 vaccination appointment - NHS (www.nhs.uk).

If you are unable to book online, please call 119 free of charge to book.

A guide to the COVID-19 spring booster 2023 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Easter opening hours. Visit 111 online or call 111 for medical assistance when we are closed.

As of 1st April 2023 patients can purchase an annual HRT Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) for the cost of 2 single prescription charges (currently £18.70)

Find out more, including how to get the new HRT Prescription Prepayment Certificate

NHS Hormone Replacement Therapy Prescription Prepayment Certificate (HRT PPC) | NHSBSA

Carer support Wiltshire offer carers cafes. These are a great way of connecting with other carers over a hot drink and a cuppa. Free to attend and no need to book – just drop in. Kindly funded by the Melksham Almshouses Charities

Thursday 6th April - 10:30-12:00 

The Kings Arms Hotel

20 Market Place

Melksham

SN12 6EX

Click Here for more information

Order repeat prescriptions in good time.

Last Friday the team here at Spa Medical Centre held a few activities to raise money for Comic relief. We had a bake sale for staff with some delicious treats on offer. Staff also got creative in their own time and decorated potatoes to look like celebrities.  Some of you may of noticed the staff could also dress in red or green (as a nod to St Patricks Day) We heard there were two leprechauns in the building!

We managed to raise £110!!!

Well done Team Spa

Don't forget the clocks go forward this weekend. 

You've got this!! 

Click here for more information.

As of Monday 20^th March 2023, practice guidance for mask wearing has been updated, based on an assessment of risk to staff, patients and visitors.

Patients without respiratory symptoms or who are Covid-19 negative no longer need to wear facemasks when coming into the surgery, unless this is their personal preference.

In addition, our staff are now not required to wear facemasks, unless it is their personal preference.

Patients who have any respiratory symptoms (coughs, wheezing, etc.) should continue to wear facemasks / face coverings, if tolerated, for the safety of our other patients, our staff and our community.  

If a patient asks a member of staff to wear a mask when providing their care, they should do so, for their own protection and out of respect for the patient’s wishes.

Patients who are Covid-19 positive should not come into the building, unless specifically invited in by a clinician.

Masks will continue to be made available at Reception for patients if required.

We will continue to risk assess this policy and keep you updated.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued support.

Spa Medical Centre

Our practice is working closely with local pharmacists to support you with certain minor health conditions
It may be more appropriate to have your NHS consultation with a trained pharmacist instead of the GP practice. You can choose a pharmacy convenient to you and we will arrange this for you.

Your consultation will either be by phone or video call, or you can go into the pharmacy. With your consent, the pharmacist will let us know what happened at your consultation to make sure your medical record is updated.

Tomorrow is Young Carers Action Day. Please see the link below for more informatio, advice and support.

Home - Young Carers | Carer Support Wiltshire

We are pleased to announce that our Practice Nurse Faye has passed her final assessment for Cervical Smears. 

Congratulations Faye!! 

Today  is International Women's Day, an annual event that celebrates and recognises the achievements of women. 

We wish to recognise the amazing team here at Spa Medical Centre!!

What a winter wonderland to wake up to. 
‼️If you need to travel to the surgery today please take extra care on your journey

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. 🟡

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other areas of the body, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the bowel.

A staggering 1 in 10 people in the UK live with endometriosis, however, on average it can take over 8 years to receive a diagnosis.

This awareness month is designed to increase knowledge and understanding of the long term health condition and combat misinformation.

If you have symptoms of endometriosis, speak to your GP - especially if they are having a big impact on your life.

Last month we said goodbye to not one but two colleages who are due to have their babies this spring.

Dr Millard and Sarah Huke from the reception team have worked their last shift and are now taking a well earned break before they welcome their new bundles of joy.

We wish them a maternity leave full of great joy ,smiles ,laughter, and love.