Holbrook and Shotley Practice Noticeboard

23/02/2026

Children’s dental health is an important part of overall wellbeing, and simple daily habits can help protect young teeth for life.

Drinks that are high in sugar and acidity can damage tooth enamel and increase the risk of decay. Encouraging water or milk, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, and regular dental check-ups can all support healthy smiles. Starting good oral health habits early can make a lasting difference. 🦷🪥💙✨

Read NHS advice on taking care of children’s teeth: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/taking-care-of-childrens-teeth/

16/02/2026

Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness of risk factors, symptoms and the importance of looking after your long-term health.

A family history of cancer, smoking, va**ng, poor diet and long-term acid reflux can all increase risk. Making positive lifestyle changes, such as stopping smoking or va**ng, can help reduce the risk of many cancers and improve overall health.

Knowing the signs and understanding risk factors can support earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. 🎗️🩺💙✨

Read about oesophageal cancer symptoms and treatment: https://ow.ly/IjjU50Yf8pq
Learn the truth about va**ng: https://ow.ly/5SJa50Yf8pj
Read about what smoking does to your heart and health: https://ow.ly/5Glx50Yf8pu

12/02/2026

Practice Closed from 1pm Today

A reminder that the practice is closed from 1pm today for staff training.

If you require urgent medical advice, please call NHS 111. In an emergency, dial 999.

We thank you for your patience.

11/02/2026

Practice Closure Reminder

Please note that the practice will be closed from 1pm tomorrow for staff training.

If you need medical assistance while we are closed, please contact NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

09/02/2026

HIV testing is quick, confidential and an important part of looking after your sexual health. Many people with HIV do not have symptoms, so testing is the only way to know your status.

Free testing options are available, including home testing and local services, making it easier than ever to get checked. Prevention, early diagnosis and effective treatment mean people with HIV can live long, healthy lives. 🧪💙🩺✨

Order a free HIV test: https://ow.ly/WnF450Y8L7R
Learn about HIV Prevention England and prevention support: https://ow.ly/29wo50Y8L7Y
Read about antibody and antigen tests: https://ow.ly/Syh250Y8L7X
Get information about HIV and AIDS: https://ow.ly/ETYf50Y8L7W

04/02/2026

02/02/2026

Announcement

It is with regret that the partners announce that Dr Adrian Doig left the practice at the end of January. We would like to thank Adrian sincerely for his hard work, dedication, and support during his time at Holbrook and Shotley, and we wish him every success and happiness in his next chapter, as he returns to his old practice.

We are pleased to announce that a new GP, Dr Femi, will be joining the practice from 9 February, he will be working full days Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday but will obviously spend the first couple of weeks getting to know how the practice works. We are confident that you will all enjoy getting to know him and welcome him to the team.

The Partners

02/02/2026

Sexual Violence Awareness Week is a time to highlight support for anyone affected by sexual assault or sexual violence, including women and men. 💜

Help is available if you have experienced abuse, are worried about someone else, or need advice on staying safe. Confidential support, medical care, forensic services and sexual health checks (including STI testing) can be accessed through specialist services.

You may also see emergency alert test notifications on your phone during national testing. Opting out can help some people keep phones hidden and safe, as these alerts override silent and do not disturb settings.

You are not alone, and support is there when you are ready. 🕊️🩺✨

🔗 Get personal safety & domestic abuse advice: https://ow.ly/3WyJ50Y5YB9

🔗 Read about sexual violence against men: https://ow.ly/ygQt50Y5YBa

🔗 NHS help after r**e and sexual assault (including SARC services): https://ow.ly/KUBc50Y5YB7

🔗 How to opt out of emergency phone alerts: https://ow.ly/51WO50Y5YBc

26/01/2026

Regular exercise plays a vital role in maintaining both physical and mental health, and it does not have to mean spending hours in the gym. Being active can help reduce the risk of long-term conditions, improve mood and boost energy levels, while also supporting independence as we age.

Examples of regular exercise include:
🚴‍♂️ Brisk walking or cycling to improve heart health
💪 Strength exercises like carrying shopping or resistance training to build muscle
🧘‍♀️Balance and flexibility activities such as yoga or stretching to reduce falls and stiffness
💙 Low-impact activities like swimming or chair-based exercises, especially later in life

Staying active in ways you enjoy makes it easier to keep exercise as part of everyday life.

Learn about the health benefits of exercise: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-health-benefits/

Explore exercise ideas for weight loss without the gym: https://patient.info/features/healthy-living/the-best-exercises-for-weight-loss-if-you-hate-the-gym

Read advice on exercising safely in later life: https://patient.info/features/healthy-living/how-to-exercise-safely-in-later-life

19/01/2026

Sinusitis can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as facial pain or pressure, a blocked or runny nose, headaches and reduced sense of smell. While many cases improve on their own, treatments like pain relief, nasal sprays, steam inhalation and self-care can help ease symptoms, and medical advice may be needed if symptoms last longer or worsen. Knowing the signs and treatment options can help you manage sinusitis more effectively and understand when to seek help. 🤧💧🩺✨

Read detailed clinical information on sinusitis: https://patient.info/doctor/ear-nose-throat/sinusitis-pro

Get NHS advice on symptoms and treatment: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sinusitis-sinus-infection/

19/01/2026

Monday 19th January…. Please be advised we have 4 clinical staff off today. Please only contact the surgery for urgent issues. Thank you.

14/01/2026

Help Us to Help You!

We are very busy and do our best to accommodate patients - help us to help you and make sure you do not miss your appointment!

- Add it to your diary / calendar
- Make sure we have an accurate mobile so we can text confirmation and reminders