The Dow Surgery

02/02/2026

📢 Please remember to cancel your GP appointments if you can’t attend

Every missed appointment means lost time that could have been used to help another patient. By cancelling in advance, you help us offer appointments to those who need them most and keep our service running smoothly.

If you can’t make your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible even short notice makes a difference.

Thank you for helping us care for our community 💙

02/02/2026

🌸 Spring Newsletter – Now Live! 🌸

Spring is here, and so is the Kingfisher PCN Spring Newsletter! 🌼

We’ve packed this edition with:
✅ Updates on new and improved services for our patients
✅ Seasonal health tips to help you stay well
✅ Highlights of our community and wellbeing initiatives
✅ Awareness days for the coming months

Our PCN works closely across local GP practices to provide accessible, high-quality care tailored to your needs.

📲 It’s already out on our practice website! Check it out and see what’s new this spring: https://www.dowsurgery.co.uk/2026/02/02/kingfisher-pcn-spring-newsletter-%f0%9f%8c%b8/

Thank you for being part of the Kingfisher PCN community 💚

26/01/2026

💙 Brew Monday You’re Not Alone ☕

Let's celebrate the Brew Monday, often called the happiest day of the year. It’s a reminder to slow down, put the kettle on, and check in with ourselves and each other.

Life can feel heavy sometimes, and that’s okay. A simple chat over a brew can make a real difference whether it’s with a friend, family member, colleague, or even just taking a moment for yourself.

If today feels tough, support is always available:

🔗 Where to get urgent help for mental health (NHS) – advice on crisis support and listening services like Samaritans & Shout:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/where-to-get-urgent-help-for-mental-health

🔹 Samaritans – Free, confidential support 24/7
📞 116 123 | 🌐 samaritans.org

🔹 Mind – Mental health advice and support
🌐 mind.org.uk

21/01/2026

20/01/2026

Neighbourhood Support Drop-In Hub
📍 Lower Ground Floor, Maple View Medical Practice
📅 10th February & 10th March | 9:30am–12:30pm
🏥Maple View Medical Practice, Redditch B98 9AA

This support is free for everyone! Whether you’re registered with a local medical practice or not, you’re welcome to pop along and see us if you need help or guidance.

Free Support from Citizens Advice, WorkWell, Social Prescribing, Carers & Communities and Act on Energy UK

19/01/2026

💙 Blue Monday 💙

Today is often called Blue Monday said to be the most difficult day of the year.
While it’s widely talked about, it’s important to know that Blue Monday isn’t backed by science. Still, January can feel heavy for many of us: shorter days, colder weather, financial stress, and post-holiday blues.

If today feels tough, you’re not alone and support is always available. Small steps matter checks in with someone, go for a walk, rest, or ask for help if you need it 🤍

Learn more and find support here:

🔗 What is Blue Monday? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Monday_(date)

🔗 Mental health tips (NHS): https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/

🔗 Mind (UK mental health charity): https://www.mind.org.uk/

🔗 Mental Health Foundation: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/

Take care of yourself today and every day 💙

16/01/2026

🩺 Health Information Day 🩺

Today is all about accessing reliable health information to help us make informed choices about our wellbeing. Accurate and up-to-date information is key to staying healthy and supported.

The NHS website is a trusted source for everything from symptoms to treatments and mental health support. Take a moment today to check trusted resources and take charge of your health! 💙

🔗 Useful NHS links:

General health advice: https://www.nhs.uk

Conditions and symptoms: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions

Mental health support: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health

Healthy living advice: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well

13/01/2026

🟦 National Obesity Awareness Week 🟦

This week is about raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging healthier lifestyles with compassion, support, and facts. Obesity is a complex issue influenced by many factors, and no one should face it alone.

The NHS offers free, trusted advice and support for managing weight, improving nutrition, and increasing physical activity in ways that work for real life.

🔹 Understanding obesity:
👉 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/

🔹 NHS Better Health – practical tips on food, activity, and wellbeing:
👉 https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/

🔹 Healthy eating guidance:
👉 https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/

Let’s focus on health, kindness, and access to the right support not judgement. 💙

09/01/2026

💙 Cervical Cancer Prevention Month 💙

January is Cervical Cancer Prevention Month a time to raise awareness of how we can reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

✔️ Attend your cervical screening when invited
✔️ Consider the HPV vaccination if eligible
✔️ Speak to a healthcare professional if you notice any unusual symptoms

Cervical screening helps prevent cancer by detecting changes early, before cancer develops.

You can find trusted NHS information here:
🔗 Cervical screening: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/

🔗 Cervical cancer: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-cancer/

🔗 HPV vaccine: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/hpv-human-papillomavirus-vaccine/

If you’ve been invited for screening and haven’t booked yet, it’s not too late 💙