Practice news - Dr Dowden has retired
One of our much loved GPs Dr Dowden has decided to retire.
However, he will continue to hold occasional locum sessions at the Surgery.
We are sure you will join us in wishing him a long, happy and healthy retirement.
Mental Health Awareness Week
Fancy a cuppa? Sometimes reaching out to someone with as little as three words can make a big difference. This Mental Health Awareness Week, the theme is loneliness - something we all can experience at some point in our lives, which can have a huge impact on our wellbeing. Sometimes it can be easier to reach out to someone else who may be feeling lonely. As part of the Better Health: Every Mind Matters campaign the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport alongside the Department for Health and Social Care are continuing to encourage people to ‘Lift Someone Out of Loneliness’ by taking a simple action to help someone who may be feeling lonely. If we do this regularly, we can all help to lift each other up. Find out how you can help to lift someone out of loneliness.
World Immunisation Week (24-30 April)
As it is World Immunisation Week (24-30 April), NHS England is reminding people how important it is to keep up to date with routine vaccinations at all life stages.
The annual event, which is championed by the World Health Organisation (WHO), promotes the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against preventable diseases – many of which are available through the NHS in England. It is important to know that vaccinations are rigorously tested to the highest safety standards.
Ranging from pre-school vaccinations like MMR, to flu and shingles which are available to older age groups, all stages of the NHS vaccination schedule are vital for protecting the wider population’s health. This in turn, decreases pressure on the NHS and reduces hospital admissions.
If people didn’t manage to book their own or their child’s vaccine appointments when invited during the pandemic, they are urged to make an appointment with the GP practice they are registered at as soon as possible.
For more information on the NHS vaccination schedule, please visit.
Easter opening/closing hours
The Surgery will be open until 6 pm today and the re-open on Tuesday 19th April at 8.15 am.
For medical advice over the bank holiday weekend please contact 111 and for Pharmacy opening times please visit this link
https://www.southtynesideccg.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/ST-easter-bank-holiday-pharmacy-opening-hours1.pdf?x91509
Support available to help you quit smoking!
Could you be a Peer Pal?
Have you made lifestyle changes to improve your health? Are you passionate about helping others to do the same?Peer Pals are volunteers who have lived experience of long-term health conditions. These volunteers who have lived experience within these areas, Smoking Cessation, Weight Management, MSK/Chronic Pain, Long Covid and Cardia Rehab are trained and matched to someone else in the community also struggling with a similar health condition. The Peer Pals then offer one to one Peer support either via face to face or whatsapp messaging. The Idea is that the Peer Pal is on hand to be someone who can emphasise with the service user in terms of health difficulties, but also be able to offer hope, understanding, some information, advice, or even just a listening ear. Peer Pals is a free service that can be offered alongside someone’s NHS care as an additional complimentary form of emotional and wellbeing support from someone who knows exactly how it feels through lived experience 
Bliss=ability Newsletter
Please see the latest Bliss=ability Newsletter for November 2021 by following the link belowBliss Ability March 2022 issue
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) are a weakening in the aorta, that can swell and rupture causing fatalinernal bleeding. They usually don’t have any symptoms and are most common in men aged over 65.
AAA screening is a free NHS national programme, that automatically invites men to attend a quick and painless 10 minute appointment to have an ultrasound scan, in the year they turn 65.
You will receive your letter through the post when you’re eligible. Please don't ignore it. It could save your life!
If you need to rearrange your appointment give us a call on: 0191 445 8747
For more information visit: QE Gateshead Website: https://www.qegateshead.nhs.uk/aaa
Watch our AAA Video: https://fb.watch/7tORZvND2n/
Cervical screening saves lives
This week the Department of Health and Social Care, together with NHS England and NHS Improvement, are launching a Help Us Help You – Cervical Screening Campaign, to highlight the benefits of cervical screening and remind people that that it can help stop cancer before it starts. The campaign encourages those eligible for screening - women and people with a cervix aged 25-64 - to respond to their cervical screening invitation letters and to book an appointment at their GP practice if they missed their last one.
Two women die every day from cervical cancer in England. Yet it is one of the most preventable cancers and getting screened can help stop it before it starts. Screening checks for certain types of the HPV virus that can cause cell changes to your cervix. Cell changes are easily treated and this prevents cervical cancer.
Don’t ignore your cervical screening invite, and if you missed your last one, book an appointment with us today. You can phone us, call in to the Surgery, or, if you are signed up to Patient Access Services, book an appointment online. Cervical screening saves lives. For more information visit nhs.uk/cervicalscreening
Routine child and adult immunisations
Did you know there are a range of free NHS routine vaccinations available? Watch this video to learn more about what immunisations you and your family need.Support available for adults and young people
www.kooth.com is a free, safe and anonymous online mental health & emotional wellbeing platform available to support children & young people aged 10 to 25 in South Tyneside.
ww.qwell.io is free, safe and anonymous online mental health & emotional wellbeing platform available to support ALL adults over the age of 24 in South Tyneside.
Face coverings update
In keeping with the latest update to Government guidelines, we ask that any patients or visitors attending the Surgery please wear a face covering whilst in the building, unless you have a medical exemption that prevents you from doing so. This will help protect our patients and staff. Thank you in advance for your co-operation.Alcohol Causes Cancer Campaign
If you drink alcohol, how do your drinks add up? And are they putting your health at risk?
Most of us know that smoking causes cancer. But a worrying new survey shows only 1 in 3 people in the North East know that alcohol also causes cancer such as bowel, breast, mouth and throat cancer. It is estimated that 4 in10 adults in the North East, or 855,000 people, are drinking above Chief Medical Officers’ low-risk guidelines of no more than 14 units per week, raising their risk.
It’s not just heavy drinkers who are affected. Even small amounts of alcohol, drunk regularly, can increase the risk of cancer. And any type of alcohol can cause cancer... whether it is wine, beer or spirits. Drinking regularly can also damage the liver and raise our risk of heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension) and stroke. It can lead to us gaining weight and increase the risk of anxiety and depression.
The best way to reduce your risk is to cut down. Visit Alcohol causes cancer - Reduce My Risk try the alcohol units quiz, and download the free Try Dry app to track your units, calories and money saved when you cut down or cut out alcohol.
Bliss=ability Newsletter
Please see the latest Bliss=ability Newsletter for November 2021 by following the link below
Bliss ability Newsletter November 2021
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening
November is men’s health month and a perfect opportunity to raise awareness of a health condition than predominantly affects men.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAAs) mainly affect men aged 65 or over. They are a bulge or swelling in the tummy area of the aorta, which is the main artery, that supplies blood to the body. They often have no obvious symptoms so you wouldn’t feel any different or know if you had one. If the aneurysms aren’t detected and continue to grow they can burst, which can be life threatening.
Men are invited to have an ultrasound scan, in the year they turn 65. The screening test is very quick, painless and reliable. It is the most effective way to see if you have an AAA and research suggests it can half the risk of dying from a ruptured AAA. Results are given on the day, straight after the scan.
The North East and North Cumbria Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Programme is hosted by Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead but screens men in clinics local to where they live.
If you receive an invitation please don’t ignore it. It could save your life!
If you have received an appointment that isn’t suitable, you can change it by contacting your local screening service on: 0191 445 8747
Click this link to find out more:
https://www.qegateshead.nhs.uk/aaa
Click this link to watch a short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9g0ObQNf1E&feature=youtu.be
Latest Covid-19 advice for clinically extremely vulnerable patients
Follow this link to find out
the Government's latest advice for those patients classed as clinically extremely vulnerable
Guidance on protecting people who are clinically extremely vulnerable from COVID-19 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
New chat based Counselling for adults-Qwell
Qwell is a chat-based counselling and self-help digital platform for adults. Visit www.qwell.io to sign up and find out more
Important information with effect from Monday 19 July 2021
Although no longer a legal requirement from 19 July 2021 we respectfully ask that all patients continue to wear a face mask or covering (unless exempt) while visiting the practice and continue to socially distance.
Patients who refuse to wear a mask may be asked to wait outside until they are called in. We do understand this is frustrating, but we have a duty to protect sick or vulnerable patients and our staff. Some patients cannot receive the covid vaccination due to medical reasons and we want to keep everyone safe.
Our staff will continue to wear face masks and PPE to ensure patient safety.
Thank you for your understanding
New local Veterans support service now available
New local support service available for patients with an Armed Forces connection. Visit our veterans page to find out more
Vaccine passports - How to prove vaccination status
There are only two ways to get a Vaccine Passport, download the #NHSApp from Google Play or the iOS App Store to get your Vaccine Passport.
If you do not have a smartphone, or are unable to connect to the internet, as long as you’ve had two doses of the vaccine you can receive a paper copy by ringing 119 and one will be posted to you within five working days.
Sexual Health Services Update
Please visit our sexual health services page for the latest update on South Tyneside Sexual Health Services and their latest service map
CHAT HEALTH LAUNCH
The 0-19 School Nursing Service are delighted to announce the introduction of ChatHealth a confidential text messaging service for young people aged 11-19 enabling them to access a school nurse for advice, support or signposting.
Proof of Covid vaccine status
From 17 May 2021, people in England who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can demonstrate their vaccination status for international travel. A full course is currently two doses of any approved vaccine. Vaccine status will be available from:
- the NHS App which you can download from app stores If you cannot access this online service, and you have had 2 vaccines, you can request a paper letter from the NHS by calling 119. Only call 119 if you are due to travel abroad in the near future and have had your second dose more than 5 working days ago. It may take 7 working days for the letter to arrive. When you're planning your travel, check the latest information on demonstrating your COVID-19 status when travelling abroad on the gov.uk website. Make sure there is time to get proof of your vaccination status before you leave.
- This practice is not able to provide you with a letter that shows your COVID-19 vaccination status.
Age Concern Launch new Balance and Stability Class
Click on the link below to view more details
Balance and Stability Classes
It's Mental Health Awareness Week
It’s #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek and the theme is nature. South Tyneside has a wealth of walks, cycle routes and nature trails that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Find out more at Visit South Tyneside.
Family discovery trails
South Tyneside Walks
South Tyneside Heritage Trail
The Change4life Champions have compiled an electronic resources pack for #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek. It contains general mental health resources on subjects such as sleep, as well as useful contact details of where help is available. Email change4life@southtyneside.gov.uk to request a pack or visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/mhaw to find out more.
For more guides and information on how to support and manage your Physical and Mental Health, visit our Clinics and Services page.
This week is Type 2 Diabetes Prevention week
Type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Anyone can develop Type 2 diabetes, but certain factors can increase your risk.
The older you are, the more at risk you are of developing the condition.
You’re two to six times more likely to get Type 2 diabetes if you have a parent, brother, sister or child with the condition.
People from Black Caribbean, Black African and South Asian backgrounds are more at risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Other factors including weight, high blood pressure also increase your risk.
Finding out your risk only takes a few minutes using the Diabetes UK risk tool – it could be the most important thing you do today.Visit riskscore.diabetes.org.uk
World Asthma Day - Tuesday 4th May 2021
Trinity Medical Centre are supporting World Asthma Day today. If you, or someone in your family, has symptoms you are worried could be related to Asthma, please contact us for advice and support.
View the link below to find out what Asthma is, signs and symptoms to look for, information on inhalers and tips on managing childen's asthma
World Asthma Day information
Tyneside MIND launch new support helpline
Tyneside and Northumberland Mind have launched a new support line from 08.00am until 8.00pm every weekday until 31st March 2021.
They will provide a friendly voice and listening ear on the end of a phone.
Please call (0191) 4774545 or visit https://www.tynesidemind.org.uk/
Spotting Cancer early saves lives
Spotting cancer early saves lives. We’re supporting @NorthernCancer’s awareness campaign which is urging people to speak to their GP if they are worried about any signs or symptoms of #cancer. #HelpUsHelpYou
Find out more: https://bit.ly/2VyBpG9
New Mental Health Parent and Carer Peer Support Group
A new parent/carer group is starting in South Tyneside. The sessions are aimed at those parents/carers of children and young people who have experienced difficulties with their mental/emotional health and who may have accessed services either now, or in the past. Visit our Parent's of under 5's section to find out more
Support and advice for parents and carers of new babies
Visit our section for Parents of under 5's to find useful videos and a link to Icon to access additional support for parents and carers of new babies
Help and Support available for clinically extremely vulnerable people
Please click on the link people to access a leaflet provided by South Tynesdie Council providing information and available support for people classed as clinically extremely vulnerableHelp and support available for clinically extremely vulnerable people
COVID information line available for refugees and asylum seekers.
Infoline contact details
Infoline contact details Arabic
Infoline contact details Farsi
Infoline contact details Tigrinya
Infoline contact details Urdu
Important information if you're self-isolating at home
Please follow this link for useful information for any patients with suspected coronavirus who have not been admitted to hospital and will be isolating at home.
Important Information if isolating at home
Do it for yourself Campaign
We are proud to support the #DoItForYourself campaign launched this week to raise awareness of lung cancer and the importance of early diagnosis. Don't delay! If you've had a cough for more than three weeks then contact us to speak to a GP. See our Cancer page for more details.
Improve your digital skills and confidence with free online courses
We are all aware that a large chunk of society are digitally excluded and don't know how to use their devices safely or how to get the most out of them. At this time of year, this can make people feel even more isolated, therefore Media Savvy have developed a range of FREE sessions that could help:
- Digital Skills For Beginners: Basics
- Digital Skills For Beginners: Money Matters
- Digital Skills For Beginners: eSafety
- Digital Skills For Beginners: Social Media
- Digital Skills For Beginners: Online Profile & Employability
- Digital Skills For Beginners: Silver Savvies
Contact courses@mediasavvycic.co.uk or ring 07873176145 to find ut more
NEW NHS-ENDORSED GUIDANCE LAUNCHED TO SUPPORT THE MENTAL WELLBEING OF CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
Most families have experienced upheaval in their daily lives during the pandemic.
With children and young people now back at school or college, Public Health England (PHE)’s new Better Health – Every Mind Matters campaign provides NHS endorsed tips and advice to look after children and young people’s mental wellbeing.
Research reveals that the coronavirus outbreak has caused an increase in anxiety in young people, and over a third of children report being more worried, sad and stressed than before lockdown. New PHE survey data found that over half (52%) of parents said the mental wellbeing of their children topped the list of their biggest worries.
The advice available on the Better Health - Every Mind Matters website has been developed in partnership with leading children and young people’s mental health charities. It is designed to help parents and carers spot the signs that children may be struggling with their mental health and show the actions they can take to support them. In addition to the advice for parents and carers the site also provides tools to help young people build resilience and equips them to look after their mental wellbeing.
For more information search Every Mind Matters.
Support to help you quit smoking
Despite the current pandemic Trinity Medical Centre continues to offer telephone support to help you quit smoking. In addition to this, a new support service, 'U can' is also now available in South Tyneside, where you can connect with a Peer Pal who can help you deal with any challenges and be there when you need that extra help, keeping in touch by WhatsApp or text.
OUR FACEBOOK PAGE IS MOVING
Our Facebook page is moving. You can find our new page on Facebook by searching for @TrinityMedicalCentreSouthShields
Click like and continue to receive up-to-date information on what's happening at the Surgery. Thank you for your continued support
Gathering your views on using digital technology to consult with GPs
Covid-19 also known as coronavirus, has meant that NHS healthcare staff have needed to use different ways of providing a clinical consultation to ensure that patients still get the healthcare they need. As well as the traditional methods such as face-to-face appointments, GPs, nurses and hospital staff have been using other, safer ways to consult such as telephone, online or video consultations.
The NHS in County Durham, South Tyneside, and Sunderland are working together to understand your thoughts of the different ways people can consult with a healthcare professional at their GP practice. This survey is open to anyone over the age of 16 to complete.
The feedback from this survey will be added to the insight being gathered through other involvement work being carried out with NHS staff. The report will be used to help us to understand how we can continue to make improvements to services and encourage more people to use digital clinical consultations with their health professional in the future.
All feedback will be treated in strictest confidence and we do not require any personal information that will identify you. This survey is available to complete until 3 July 2020 and should take no longer than 10 minutes to complete.
You can let us know your thoughts by going to: https://involvement.sunderlandccg.nhs.uk/surveys/1
Thank you for your time.
ECONSULT PHOTO UPLOADS
ECONSULT - You can now upload photos to your 'I want general advice' consultation. Watch this video to find out more and visit our website to submit an ECONSULT
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3abZDtvyUU&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=PCM+Newsletter&utm_campaign=3a5ac24a84-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_24_09_11_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_60a65c136a-3a5ac24a84-85065704
South Tyneside Sexual Health Services
Visit our section on Sexual Health for more information on the services currently being offered despite Covid-19 restrictions
Early Cancer Diagnosis Saves Lives
Fewer people are presenting to their GPs with possible cancer symptoms. Don't delay, contact your GP Surgery if you are concerned or notice changes that are unusual for you. Watch this short video to find out more
https://youtu.be/DfBf38taZJs
Mental Health Support and Emotional Wellbeing Self Help packs
Click on the links below to access information on how to maintain positive mental health for everyone during this period and beyond as well as details of support that is available.
Advice for Parents
Childrens Wellbeing Self Help Pack
Young Peoples Wellbeing Self Help Pack
Useful information for parents during Coronavirus
Guidance for parents during Coronavirus
KOOTH - online support available for young people
Follow this link for information on how to access online support for young people aged 10-25 or visit www.Kooth.com Kooth online support for young people
New Support Groups available for LGTB+ young people
LGTB Peer Support Group
LGTB Youth Group
Find your way to better Mental Health
We all have times when we feel stressed, low or anxious, or having trouble sleeping. For practical tips and expert advice to improve your mental health, visit Every Mind Matters
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
The Herbert Protocol
The Herbert Protocol is a national scheme introduced by the police in partnership with other agencies which encourages carers to record useful information which could be used in the event of a vulnerable person going missing.
Carers, family members and friends can complete in advance, The Herbert Protocol form recording all vital details, such as medication required, mobile numbers, places previously located, a photograph etc.
In the event of your family member or friend going missing, the form can be easily handed to the police to reduce the time taken in gathering this information.
This form could make a real difference. It could help reduce the amount of time a vulnerable person is missing, bringing them to safety even quicker.
Download the Herbert Protocol Form at
https://beta.northumbria.police.uk/advice-and-info/personal-safety/missing-persons/
Did you know? In spring 2020, the law around organ donation will change. Find out what this means for you at: http://www.organdonation.nhs.uk
#passiton #organdonation
