Garstang Medical Practice

24/03/2026

Befriending Volunteers (Wyre)

There is currently a four month waiting list for people wishing to access this service.
Could you spare from as little as one hour per week to help us combat loneliness in our community?

You can apply to become a volunteer via the Wyre Council website: https://www.wyre.gov.uk/volunteering/befriending-volunteers

If you have any questions about volunteer befriending in the Wyre area, please email befriending@wyre.gov.uk or call 01253 887234.

All volunteers must be aged 18+

Wyre Council is aiming to recruit volunteers for a new befriending service, to support and spend time with lonely, vulnerable and isolated residents.

23/03/2026

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, and recognising symptoms early can make a real difference.

Symptoms may include difficulty p*eing, a weak flow, needing to p*e more often (especially at night), discomfort in the pelvic area or blood in urine/semen. If you notice changes, talk to your GP and tell them about any family history of cancer - not just immediate family, as broader history can help guide decisions about checks and referral.

Public figures like Sir Chris Hoy have also shared their cancer journeys to help raise awareness and encourage conversations about men’s health. 💙🩺✨

Learn more about prostate cancer: https://prostatecanceruk.org

Read Chris Hoy’s cancer story: https://www.ourcancerstories.com/cancer-news/chris-hoy-cancer

20/03/2026

Salt plays an important role in the body, but too much can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Many processed foods contain hidden salt, so it’s easy to consume more than recommended. On the other hand, very low salt levels can sometimes contribute to symptoms like muscle cramps, weakness or fluid balance issues, especially if combined with dehydration.

Staying well hydrated, keeping active and aiming for a balanced diet can help support healthy blood pressure. Understanding how salt affects your body can help you make informed choices. 🧂💧🩺✨

Learn about dietary salt and sodium: https://patient.info/healthy-living/healthy-eating/dietary-salt-and-sodium

Read about salt and your blood pressure: https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/your-blood-pressure/how-to-lower-your-blood-pressure/healthy-eating/salt-and-your-blood-pressure/

18/03/2026

Cases of invasive meningococcal disease have been confirmed in Kent. Sadly, 2 people are known to have died. It's important to know the signs of symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia. Get more info from NHS.
🔗 nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis

18/03/2026

Endometriosis is a long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in places it shouldn’t, often causing symptoms like painful periods, pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, pain during s*x, and fatigue.

Find out more here: https://ow.ly/WSYA50YvnQo

If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms that affect your daily life, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional and describe exactly what you’re experiencing. Early recognition, understanding family history and access to support and reliable information can help you get the care you need. Trusted resources are available to help you learn more about symptoms, management and support. 💛🩺✨

Read about endometriosis symptoms and care from the NHS: https://ow.ly/i3L050YvnQp
Could bad period pains be endometriosis? Learn more: https://ow.ly/QPjx50YvnQq
Find endometriosis publications and support: https://ow.ly/F7cZ50YvnQs

15/03/2026

Good sleep habits are essential for both physical and mental wellbeing.

Struggling to fall asleep or waking frequently during the night can affect mood, concentration and overall health.

Simple changes like keeping a regular bedtime, reducing screen time before bed, limiting caffeine and creating a calm sleep environment can help improve sleep quality.

Understanding the possible causes of sleep problems and accessing trusted advice can make a real difference. Better sleep supports better days. 😴🌙💙✨

Get NHS tips on falling asleep faster and sleeping better:
https://ow.ly/fUOr50Ytjci

Understand common causes of sleep problems:
https://ow.ly/HzR750Ytjco

Watch helpful sleep videos and advice:
https://ow.ly/m4Ng50Ytjcf

12/03/2026

Symptoms such as ongoing tiredness, swelling, changes in urination or persistent kidney pain should never be ignored. Lifestyle choices, hydration and underlying health conditions all play a role in kidney health.

There is also growing concern about ketamine use in young people, as it can cause serious damage to the bladder and kidneys, sometimes leading to long-term complications. Knowing the risks and acting early can help protect kidney function and overall wellbeing. 🩺💧💙✨

Learn more about kidney health and support:
https://kidneycareuk.org

Take a kidney health check:
https://www.kidneyresearchuk.org/kidney-health-information/kidneyhealthcheck/

Read about ketamine risks and organ damage:
https://www.ukat.co.uk/addiction/drug/ketamine/

11/03/2026

Young Carers Action Day shines a light on the incredible young people who help care for family members, often balancing responsibilities at home with school and friendships.

The 2026 theme focuses on Action for Equality, calling for better recognition, improved support in schools, access to training and employment opportunities, and meaningful breaks so young carers can thrive just like their p*ers.

Some young carers may miss school activities or struggle with their mental health due to caring responsibilities, which is why awareness and understanding matter. Schools, organisations and communities can access resources and posters to help raise awareness and ensure young carers are not held back. 💙🌟✨

Learn more about Young Carers Action Day 2026:
https://carers.org/young-carers-action-day/young-carers-action-day

Access awareness resources:
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/event/young-carers-awareness-day-2026

11/03/2026

Today is and this year’s theme is Fair Futures for Young Carers.

Young carers take on responsibilities that many of their p*ers never have to think about. Alongside school, friendships and growing up, they may be providing emotional or practical support to someone at home. That responsibility can affect their education, wellbeing, confidence and future opportunities.

Young Carers Action Day is about making sure those futures are fair! This year Carers Trust is joining young carers in calling for a Young Carer Lead in every school and education setting. This will help young carers get the support they need to balance their schoolwork with the pressures of their caring role.

Local support is available for Young Carers via the Lancashire Young Carers Service (Barnardo’s) tel: 01772 641002 https://www.barnardos.org.uk/get-support/young-carers?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=2077432990

is here! Share your story today on what a Fair Future for Young Carers looks like to you.

We're fighting to make Fair Futures a reality - including a Young Carers Lead in every school. Find out more about Young Carers Action Day: https://bit.ly/4swQftE

11/03/2026

Surgery Closure this afternoon

Garstang Medical Practice will close at 1pm today for staff training.

The Appointment request form will close at 11am to allow time for safe clinical triage.

If you have an urgent medical issue between 11am & 1pm, please call the Reception Team on 01995 607399 for advice.

If you need urgent medical care after 1pm, please call NHS 111.

09/03/2026

March is . Do you know the symptoms?

If you are concerned about any of these symptoms, it is important to speak to a clinician.
Early diagnosis saves lives.

09/03/2026