The Vale Surgery

04/03/2025

🌟 ED Awareness Week (Feb 28th - Mar
6th) 🌟

This week, let’s break the silence around eating
disorders and start conversations that matter. 💬💚
Whether it’s about support, education, or
understanding, we can all play a part in raising
awareness and offering help. 🤝

You’re not alone. 💪

17/12/2024

06/12/2024

26/11/2024

Until the 20th of December, we are celebrating UK Disability History Month!

This year, we're focusing on Disability Livelihood and Employment. Over the years, we've seen a positive correlation when it comes to disabled people in employment. This means we are improving access-to-work, and treatment with those with a disability. We've seen an increase in Health & Safety Laws in the workplace, along with the rising popularity in working from home.

Read more about the History Month here: https://ukdhm.org/

Remember, not all disabilities are visible! 🌻💚

19/11/2024

Together we can breathe hope into lung cancer awareness. Let's fight for research, support, and a future where every breath counts. 💚

03/10/2024

Unsure with how to use the NHS App?

We are running a workshop dedicated to helping patients with one-to-one help on how to use the NHS App. If this is too far for you, don't worry, we will be holding a workshop in Streatham in the future.

17/09/2024

🦻September is Deaf Awareness Month, a time that serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering an inclusive society. Let’s make a commitment to celebrate diversity and promote understanding, not just this month, but every day of the year.
Ways to Support Deaf Awareness:
1. 🎓Educate Yourself and Others:
Knowledge is power. Take time to learn about the challenges faced by those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Share your findings with friends, family, and colleagues to raise awareness in your community.
2. 🧏‍♀️Learn Sign Language:
Consider taking a course in British Sign Language (BSL) or another sign language. This not only enhances your communication skills but also shows respect for the community. There are plenty of Youtube videos that provide such, or you can find specific words on https://www.signbsl.com/
3. 🧠Be Mindful of Accessibility:
When hosting events or meetings, ensure that spaces are accessible for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. This can include providing sign language interpreters, real-time captioning, or ensuring that sound systems are conducive to hearing devices.
4. 🗣Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Support policies that promote accessibility in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. Advocate for the inclusion of deaf individuals in conversations about legislation that affects them.
5. ⌚️Volunteer Your Time: Many organisations work to support the deaf community through education, advocacy, and social activities. Consider volunteering your time or skills to help these organisations thrive.
6. 👥Practice Patience and Inclusivity:
When communicating with a deaf or hard of hearing person, be patient and willing to adapt your communication methods. Speak directly and maintain eye contact. Don’t hesitate to ask what communication method they prefer.

10/09/2024

💚 Today, on World Su***de Prevention Day, let’s come together to raise awareness, share hope, and foster a culture of understanding and support. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Together, we can break the silence and save lives. 🌍✨ ***dePreventionDay

What to Say to Someone Feeling Suicidal:
Listen Without Judgment: "I'm here for you, and I'm really glad you felt you could talk to me."
Express Concern: "I care about you and I'm worried. Can you tell me more about what you're feeling?"
Encourage Help: "It’s really important that you talk to someone who can help, like a mental health professional. Would you like help finding resources?"
Stay Connected: "You’re not alone in this. Let’s keep talking and check in on each other regularly."

How to Spot Someone Who Might Be Suicidal:
Changes in Behavior: Look for shifts in mood, withdrawal from friends and activities, or increased substance use.
Expressing Feelings of Hopelessness: Pay attention if they frequently talk about feeling trapped, hopeless, or helpless.
Talking About Death or Su***de: Take seriously any comments about wanting to die, feeling like a burden, or wishing they were never born.
Disconnection from Reality: Sudden calmness after a period of intense emotion, or giving away prized possessions, can also be warning signs.

Find help here: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/suicidal-feelings/treatment-and-support/

Self refer to therapy here: https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-NHS-talking-therapies-service/

If you are in a mental health CRISIS, call 111 and select option 2.
If someone or yourself have seriously harmed yourself, call 999.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for help immediately. You are not alone, and there are people who want to support you.

05/09/2024

This week is Know Your Numbers! Week which takes place every September.

What are the numbers?

✅1.5 million
1.5 million people have had a free blood pressure check during our annual Know Your Numbers! Week, the UK’s biggest blood pressure testing and awareness event.

✅120/80
An ideal blood pressure is under 120/80mmHg. Do you Know Your Numbers? Find your nearest blood pressure check.

✅6 million
6 million people in the UK have high blood pressure and don’t know it. Could you get involved and help us find them?

✅350
Every day in the UK, 350 people have a stroke or heart attack that could have been prevented. See why Know Your Numbers! is needed.

Every adult in the UK should know their blood pressure numbers in the same way they know their height and weight. When you Know Your Numbers! you can take steps to look after your blood pressure and lead a long and healthy life.

If you are over 40, book in a FREE blood pressure check using this link: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/find-a-pharmacy-that-offers-free-blood-pressure-checks/

29/08/2024

The NHS App offers the opportunity to view any messages in-app. Not only this but you can also;
-order repeat prescriptions and nominate a pharmacy where you would like to collect them
-book and manage appointments
-view your GP health record to see information like your allergies and medicines (if your GP has given you access to your detailed medical record, you can also see information like test results)
-book and manage COVID-19 vaccinations
-register your organ donation decision
-choose how the NHS uses your data
-view your NHS number (find out what your NHS number is)
-use NHS 111 online to answer questions and get instant advice or medical help near you

Scan the QR code to download!

12/08/2024

General Practice is facing a crisis. We need your support to fix it. Speak with political candidates about saving GP services, join your local practice's patient participation group, and share campaign materials. Together, we can ensure better funding and support for our GPs, making it easier to get the care you need. Let's work to restore the quality of General Practice for everyone.

For more information and to get involved, visit GPs Are On Your Side https://www.bma.org.uk/our-campaigns/gp-campaigns/patients/gps-are-on-your-side

09/08/2024

Download the free NHS Food Scanner app to easily find healthier swaps for your favourite foods. Simply scan, swipe, and swap for better options next time you shop. Perfect for families aiming to make healthier eating choices.

Learn more and get the app here: NHS Food Scanner App https://www.nhs.uk/healthier-families/food-facts/nhs-food-scanner-app/

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