Have you got a green thumb, or want to start? 🌼

Green Minds offers sessions of gardening and growing produce at our allotments, encouraging people with personal experiences of mental health difficulties to become involved in outdoor gardening activities, learn new skills and meet others.

---

What service users can gain from coming along:

• Gentle exercise

• Increased time outdoors

• Learn about the benefits of growing your own

• Learn about different types of plants and vegetation

• Benefit from a calming, quiet environment

• Building new friendships within the community

• Meet others with mental health difficulties

• Learn about garden/allotment design

• Improve your wellbeing

• Talk about mental health

• Improved sense of self-worth

• Build your confidence

---

Locations and Groups:

Leamington Spa 

• Men’s Group held every Tuesday, 10am-12pm  

• Mixed Group held every Wednesday 10am-12pm. 

• The Leamington Allotment is at Northumberland Road Allotments, Leamington Spa, CV32 6HB. 

Stratford upon Avon 

• Held every Monday, 11.15am-1.15pm (Winter Times: 11.15am-12.15pm)  

• The Stratford-upon-Avon Allotment is at Lifeways Therapy Centre, 30 Albany Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6PG. 

---

Would you like to attend?

Please send a message to melanie.campbell@springfieldmind.org.uk or call 01789 298615 saying what venue and day you would prefer. You will then receive a message to confirm your place.

There are a very limited number of spaces available due to latest Government restrictions.

---

For more information about the groups and for how they have adapted to updated COVID guidelines, please go to their website here.

What it's like to volunteer with our local vaccinations

Written by Jodie

Admin Assistant

---

Since January I have had the pleasure of assisting with some of the administration & reception shifts at the vaccination clinic in Southam.

January saw many of our older members of the community come through the door for their first vaccination, this was the first time so many of them had been out of their homes since March last year, some were understandably nervous, so it was wonderful to be able to allay any fears they may have had and assist in their vaccination experience.

As many of you who have had your vaccination will know, the system works really well, and most people are in and out of the clinic within 15-20 minutes. In one 12-hour period the team can vaccinate over 500 patients with up to 4 vaccinators on shift at any one time!

I have worked alongside people from all walks of life, some of which include students who attend our local secondary schools and colleges, who are assisting with administration, also volunteers from the community who have stood outside in freezing cold conditions assisting traffic or assisting elderly or vulnerable patients into and out of the clinic. I have met nurses from local surgeries and NHS trusts who are working tirelessly drawing up hundreds of vaccines every hour, doctors from across the primary care network providing their clinical support, IT staff supporting us when required, and of course the wonderful vaccinators delivering the vaccine. It has been so rewarding to be part of this little army of people all coming together in extreme circumstances to contribute to the delivery of this programme for the good of our community. One of many across the country all doing our part in the fight against this pandemic, a vaccination programme that will become a significant part of our history.

On a personal note, I have had the opportunity to meet many of our lovely St Wulfstan patients. Many of whom I only usually speak to on the phone or via email, so it has been wonderful to be able to put a face to so many names. I hope to see many more of you in the coming weeks and months!

So, when you receive your call to book in your vaccine please be assured you are in very safe hands with everyone at Southam Clinic!

---

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

April is Bowel Cancer Awareness month. And that matters. As the 4th most common cancer in the UK it’s important to be aware of some the symptoms of bowel cancer. And just because you have these symptoms, it doesn’t mean you have bowel cancer, but only that we need to be more alert. If we suspect cancer, we can act quickly, often resulting in a hospital appointment within 2 weeks if it is needed.

What are the symptoms of bowel cancer?

Be aware of the following symptoms. Again, if you have these it doesn’t mean you have cancer, but that it is worthy of a conversation with your GP to discuss further.

• Bleeding

  • from the back passage or in the poo (stool)

• Change in bowel habit

  • a change to looser or more frequent stool lasting more than a few weeks

• Tummy pain

  • Frequent, recurrent tummy pain occurring for more than a few weeks

• Weight loss

  • Especially if you have lost more than 5% body weight in the last 6 months unintentionally

How will you investigate my symptoms?

We have many tests available to help us investigate your symptoms further. Blood tests can be useful, and so too can certain stool samples. These samples can look at many things including bowel infection, bowel inflammation and even looking for fine traces of blood in your stool.

If necessary we can refer you to the hospital for further tests. This can include scans and a camera test to look at the inside of your bowel (endoscopy).

What about bowel screening?

Bowel screening tests are so, so important. We have come across many cases where people have been diagnosed with bowel cancer following a screening test, even before developing symptoms, and therefore giving the best change of a good outcome.

The screening test is sent every 2 years to those aged between 60 and 74 years. If you're 75 or over, you can ask for a kit every 2 years by phoning the free bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 60 60.

For more details on screening, please visit the NHS bowel cancer screening page.

By Dr Ramadani

Easter Weekend Opening Hours 2021

St Wulfstan Surgery will close for the Easter Bank Holiday at 6.00pm on Thursday 1st April and will reopen at 8.30am on Tuesday 6th April.

---

If you have a life threatening emergency whilst we are closed, please call 999

If you have a medical problem that cannot wait until we reopen, please call 111

---

We have some appointments available on Saturday 3rd April, but these are by prior appointment only. Please call the reception desk before 6pm on 1st April if you would like to book one of these appointments.

---

Please see below for our local pharmacies opening hours over the Easter Bank Holiday.

More information can be found at www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy

Mums - The support you deserve!

Public Health England are running a new campaign to offer support and advice to new mums and mums-to-be in regards to everything from pregnancy FAQs to breastfeeding advice, as many women haven’t been able to access face-to-face support since March 2020.

The Start4Life website has so many resources and advice that takes you through everything from finding out you are pregnant to running after your toddler. We know that the last year has been difficult, especially for mums and mums-to-be, with many feeling as though they haven’t had access to the support they needed. Start4Life are determined to change that.

If you are having any queries on the maze of breastfeeding, you are welcome to call the National Breastfeeding Helpline - 0300 100 0212 (open 9:30am-9:30pm - 365 days a year) which is manned by trained mums who have been in your position.

Stroke? Think FAST...

What is a Stroke?

A Stroke is a very serious medical condition which should be treated as an emergency. It is a very serious cause of death and long term disability.

There are 2 main types of stroke:

• Thrombotic stroke; which occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain, thereby starving that area of the brain from oxygen (which is carried in the blood)

• Haemorrhagic stroke; which occurs when a bleed occurs in the brain, again depriving areas of the brain from oxygen.

• Thrombotic strokes are much more common than haemorrhagic strokes

It is so important that if you develop symptoms of a stroke, that you call 999 immediately.

There are treatments that can be offered in hospital if you get there soon enough. For example clot busting drugs can be considered in thrombotic strokes if you get to hospital within 4 hours of the start of your symptoms, that is why time matters. So act quick.

What is FAST, and what are the symptoms?

The FAST acronym is used to highlight the important symptoms of a stroke. Remember, if you develop any of these, then call 999:

• Face – the face may have dropped on 1 side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have dropped.

• Arms – the person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in 1 arm.

• Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake; they may also have problems understanding what you're saying to them.

• Time – it's time to dial 999 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms.

How do I reduce my chances of getting a Stroke?

There are things you can do to reduce your personal chance of developing a stroke:

• Stop Smoking - Smoking increases your risk of stroke, please visit our smoking page for help

• Control your blood pressure - Get your blood pressure checked, if it is raised (more than 140/90) then get in touch. Click for more details about high blood pressure.

• Loose Weight - Being obese increases your risk of stroke. Check your BMI, and if it is high then get visit our weight management page

• Diabetes - If you have diabetes, do what you can to improve your diabetes and therefore reduce your risk

• Irregular heart rhythm - If you have an irregular heart rhythm when feeling your pulse, you may have atrial fibrillation and you should have this checked at the surgery.

By Dr Ramadani

Ovarian Cancer Support

Support for those diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer.

Ovacome is an amazing charity who are the National UK Ovarian Cancer Charity, and are focused on providing support to anyone affected by ovarian cancer whether that be due to a recent diagnosis or anyone at risk.

---

They offer many resources such as:

• A support line is open from Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm.

To use this, call 07503 682 311 or Freephone 0800 008 7054.

You can also email them at support@ovacome.org.uk, and even WhatsApp on 07503 682 311.

• Guides and advice on living with ovarian cancer here, where they take you through everything from preparing for remote hospital appointments to going back to work and more.

---

However:

You can also call:

• Macmillan Cancer Support helpline on 0808 808 00 00, seven days a week, 8am-8pm.

Alongside 24- hour services:

• NHS 111 on 111 for England

• NHS Direct Wales on 0845 4647 for Wales

• NHS 24 on 111 in Scotland

• Samaritans on 116 123

Have you got a cough that isn't COVID?

If you or a loved one has had a cough for three weeks or more and it isn’t COVID-19, contact your GP practice.

It’s probably nothing serious, but it could be a sign of cancer. If it is cancer, finding it early makes it more treatable and can save lives: nhs.uk/cancersymptoms

---

Lung cancer doesn't always cause symptoms in its early stages. Many of the signs and symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions but finding lung cancer early can mean that it's easier to treat. So if you notice any symptoms or changes get them checked out by your GP as soon as possible.  

The most common symptoms of lung cancer are:

• having a cough most of the time

• having a change in a cough you have had for a long time - it may sound different or be painful when you cough

• getting out of breath doing the things you used to do without a problem

• coughing up phlegm (sputum) with blood in it

• having an ache or pain in the chest or shoulder

• chest infections that keep coming back or a chest infection that doesn't get better

• losing your appetite

• feeling tired all the time (fatigue)

• losing weight

---

We know speaking to your GP may be scary at times such as this, but it is vital that you do. Cancer Research UK have some wonderful and reassuring tips on speaking to your GP about possible cancer symptoms, here.

---

If you are experiencing any of the above discussed, it is imperative you contact your GP as soon as possible to chat. You can book an appointment to speak to one of our GPs on 01926 810939.

Quit Smoking Today!

There has never been a better time to quit smoking. And there has never been more support to help you quit.

We know that smoking increases your risks of suffering with lung cancer, chronic lung disease (COPD), heart disease, stroke , and increases your risk of severe disease or death from COVID-19. It also hammers your wallet.

In order to help you, the NHS website has plenty of resources to help at www.nhs.uk/oneyou/for-your-body/quit-smoking/

In addition there is an NHS app which you may find useful, and an appointment can also be booked at the surgery with our Nurse - see below…

SMOKEFREE APP

Start a 4-week programme that puts practical support, encouragement, milestones and tailored advice in the palm of your hand.

SEE OUR NURSE

Alternatively you can access the Stop Smoking service at the surgery. This will involve one-to-one sessions with our Nursing Team. If you wish to sign up then please click the button below to complete the registration form, and call the surgery a few days later to book your appointment.

Todays COVID-19 Vaccination Update - 9th March 2021

Welcome to our COVID Vaccination Update

Local vaccinations are progressing incredibly well, so well in fact that 97% of those aged over 70 years have now been vaccinated.

The Southam vaccination centre is currently calling those in Group 6 & 7 (i.e. those aged 60 years upwards) according to available vaccine supply. If you have not yet been called then please be patient, you will be called in due course. Vaccinations remain limited by the national supply chain.

If you are a carer, or aged over 55 years (Group 8) then it is possible to book your vaccine through the larger vaccination site at Stoneleigh Park. For more information, or to book, please visit the NHS COVID Vaccination Booking Page or call 119 free of charge, anytime between 7am and 11pm - seven days a week.

Well done, and thank you to all involved in the local vaccination programme, and those who have had their vaccine!

For further details regarding the COVID vaccination programme please visit our dedicated page.

To stay up to date with our weekly news email, please register below.

Carers - You are NOT alone!

Mobilise is a movement with a mission:

To make sure nobody has to figure out a caring role on their own.

-  Mobilise Care Ltd 2020

---

Mobilise offer FREE services, funded by the local government, for anyone who is an unpaid carer.

The services range from; one to one coaching, regular support emails and podcasts to aid with your carers allowance. They even get together on Facebook for a virtual cuppa with other carers.

---

Mobilise are a lovely online movement who are really just offering a kind hand or a listening ear to anyone who needs to chat to someone who ‘gets it’, and understands what its like to be a carer.

---

Go to their website https://www.mobiliseonline.co.uk/ for more details.

If you would like to discuss any of the above with our Social Prescribers, who will be able to help you access similar resources please contact them on we.connect@nhs.net.

It's Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month.

Ovarian cancer is the 6th most common cancer in ladies in the UK. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, as earlier diagnosis leads to improved outcomes. But it can be difficult to spot as symptoms can often be vague and similar to those of much less serious conditions.

So, what symptoms should you be looking out for you ask? Well, NICE (the National Institute for Clinical Excellence) highlight the following symptoms, which may either be persistent, or occur frequently (more than 12 times per month):

• persistent abdominal bloating

• feeling full (early satiety) and/or loss of appetite

• pelvic or abdominal pain

• increased urge to pass urine, or passing urine more frequently

Ovarian cancer can also be considered when you experience:

• Unexplained weight loss

• A change in your bowel habit

If you do suffer from these symptoms, then please don’t hesitate to speak to one of our GP’s who will be more than happy to help.

For more information on Ovarian Cancer please feel free to visit Cancer Research UK

By Dr Ramadani

Eating Disorder Awareness Week - Accessing the help you deserve 💜

1-7th March 2020 marks Eating Disorder Awareness Week.

Beat is the UK’s eating disorder charity who’s mission is to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders. Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that ruin and, too often, take lives.

They offer helplines which people can ring if they or a loved one are struggling with an eating disorder, they offer advice, skills and a listening ear to anyone who rings. They also have a directory in which you can access to find more local services which may be of help.

Go to their website for more in depth information on how they can help.

---

If your or a loved one are struggling with an eating disorder please contact your GP and book an appointment to discuss, as the sooner you can access treatment, the better. You can also ask for a double appointment so you have more time to allow yourself to talk.

You can also talk in confidence to an adviser from Beat by calling:

Adult helpline on 0808 801 0677

Youth helpline on 0808 801 0711

Student helpline on 0808 801 0811

The Helplines are open 365 days a year, 9am-8pm during the week and 4pm-8pm on weekends and bank holidays. If you can’t get through immediately Beat advise you contact them via their one-to-one web chat service instead.

PCN Staff - Who are they and what do they do?

The PCN (Primary Care Network) are a network of shared resources between local practices. We at St Wulfstan are apart of South Warwickshire’s East PCN, alongside the following surgeries:

Fenny Compton Surgery
Harbury Surgery
Kineton Surgery
Southam Surgery

This means that we are lucky enough to have the lovely help of the following PCN Staff, who do about 1 day at week at each practice. Some of you may have already had the pleasure of chatting to some of them.

---

Patient Care-Coordinator: Fraser

Fraser is the 1st point of contact for patient’s who may be referred to one of services offered by our new PCN staff, whether this be through a self-referral or through your GP or nurse. He will determine whether the patient would better suit seeing the Heath and Wellbeing coach, or the Social Prescribers. He also deals with general queries and handles all the referrals.

In addition to this, Fraser is helping launch several exciting schemes including an Exercise@Home programme and Blood Pressure monitoring @ Home.

---

Health & Wellbeing Coach: Ludmilla

Ludmilla offers education and guidance for patients on changing their habits surrounding diet, lifestyle and general heath and wellbeing. A few of the team at St Wulfstan actually attended her online talk on ‘resilience’, which we found to be extremely wonderful and insightful. Ludmilla’s overall goals with patients is to help them achieve: better heath outcomes, better response to treatment and improved prevention of disease.

So, if you are struggling to control your chronic disease, suffer symptoms such as chronic pain, need help loosing weight, or otherwise feel like you could benefit from some Health & Wellbeing coaching then please e-mail we.connect@nhs.net where Fraser will be able to help further.

---

Social Prescribers: Jo, Rita and Elicia

The social prescribers are a wonderful team of ladies who act as a signposting service for patients to relevant local resources which they may benefit from. There are so many different programs, and opportunities outside the clinical setting but its often hard to find the ones most relevant to you - this is where Jo, Rita and Elicia come in. They can help direct you in all areas such as: benefits entitlement, connecting with local community groups, carer support and access to social care, and so much more. Some of our patients may have already been contacted by them to offer any services, but anyone is more than welcome to talk to them.

If you would like to access this service please e-mail we.connect@nhs.net where Fraser will help get the ball rolling and get you booked in for a chat!

---

Clinical Pharmacist: Hitesh and Rajveer

The clinical pharmacists are an extension of our clinical team. They are engaged in multiple activities and you will most likely interact with them in the form of a medication review. In these reviews, they will ensure the appropriate blood tests and monitoring has been completed for your medication and review your current medication for appropriateness. This is your chance as a patient to have an in-depth discussion about your medication and any questions or concerns. They have a strong relationship with your GP and any suggestions for your care will be as a multi-disciplinary approach.

---

First Contact Practitioner: Roger

Roger is our First Contact Practitioner and also works as part of the South Warwickshire Foundation Trusts MSK (Musculoskeletal) team. 

Roger is an extremely experienced musculoskeletal practitioner and can see patients with; Arthritic symptoms, Sports injuries, Joint pain, Back pain, Non-specific muscle pain.

Roger is a prescriber and will be able to refer the patient to the most appropriate service and of course will discuss concerns with the patients GP as required.

---

If you have any questions about the services on offer please contact Fraser by email on we.connect@nhs.net

Calling all plastic bag owners!

A wonderful project has been set up by a local lady, Brenda Dommett, alongside some residents of Galanos House to turn your old plastic bags into something useful!

Together they are creating as many rug/bed roll as they can from our old plastic bags, which will all be donated to a homeless charity who will then be able to distribute to rough sleepers. The rugs are ideal due to their warmth, waterproof abilities and light weight.

Each rug takes over 500 bags to make. Therefore we are appealing to you to donate any plastic bags you have laying around to this wonderful cause. There is a clearly labelled donation bin outside the visiting pod at Galanos house, Southam where we accept these bags. Please do not drop these off at the Surgery.

If anyone has an queries regarding this project, please contact Brenda Dommett directly through brenda@priors-marston.co.uk as she is the lady behind this lovely project.

The image above is what the rugs look like on completion.