Fort House Surgery

25/03/2026

Be prepared this Easter, with the following important information...

💊 REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS

To allow for our 72-hour turnaround with repeat prescriptions, please can all prescription requests be with the practice by Monday 30th March. https://www.forthousesurgery.nhs.uk/services/prescriptions/

⏰ SURGERY OPENING HOURS

Monday 30th March: 8am-6:30pm
Tuesday 31st March: 8am-6:30pm
Wednesday 1st April: 8am-6:30pm
Thursday 2nd April: 8am-6:30pm
Friday 3rd April Good Friday: CLOSED
Saturday 4th April: CLOSED
Sunday 5th April Easter Sunday: CLOSED
Monday 6th April Easter Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday 7th April: 8am-6:30pm

🚨 OUT OF HOURS HELP

If you require medical assistance on dates we are closed, please visit NHS 111 online, call NHS 111, or in an emergency, call 999. https://111.nhs.uk/

24/03/2026

This month is

If you have any concerns, please contact us at the surgery and request an appointment: https://accurx.nhs.uk/patient-initiated/h81020

It’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month! Get to know the key signs and symptoms to look out for.

The key symptoms of ovarian cancer are:
- Increased abdominal size and persistent bloating (not bloating that comes and goes)
- Persistent pelvic and abdominal pain
- Difficulty eating and feeling full quickly, or feeling nauseous (sick)
- Unexplained change in bowel habits
- Urinating (weeing) more frequently.

If you have spotted any of these symptoms, do call your GP.

The symptoms of ovarian cancer are often misdiagnosed as IBS or constipation. If you have seen/spoken to your GP three times about persistent bloating, and it hasn't gone away, ask for a referral to a gynaecologist. It is probably something less serious than cancer but always worth getting checked, just in case.

You can also speak to our Ask Eve nurses on 0808 802 0019 or nurse@eveappeal.org.uk for free, expert and confidential information.

Find out more about ovarian cancer on our website: https://eveappeal.org.uk/information-and-advice/gynaecological-cancers/ovarian-cancer/

20/03/2026

📌 Find out more about the neurodevelopmental support available for children and young people in Surrey

As Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2026 comes to a close, we want to highlight the neurodevelopmental support pages on our website.

These pages bring together information and guidance for families, carers and professionals supporting children and young people who may be neurodivergent, including those who are autistic or have ADHD.

The pages include information about:
• understanding neurodevelopmental differences
• advice and support available for families
• the referral and assessment process
• services and resources available in Surrey

To find out more visit: https://buff.ly/cjx2dwZ

20/03/2026

📌 FamilyLives free online parenting course on parenting neurodivergent children, teens and young adults

We are happy to announce our new FREE online parenting course on parenting neurodivergent children, teens and young adult is now live 💛 This course is created by parents who truly understand the challenges and small wins 💛

Click here to sign up to this free course: https://www.familylives.org.uk/how-we-can-help/online-parenting-courses/parenting-neurodivergent-children

19/03/2026

This Neurodiversity Celebration Week, join Fort House Surgery’s Dr Sitso Amankwah as he shares a short video webinar exploring ADHD, neurodevelopmental assessments, and the NHS Right to Choose pathway.

Many people who are considering an ADHD or autism assessment can be unsure where to start, especially with long waiting times and different referral options. This presentation aims to provide an overview of the process and help you understand what support may be available.

In the video we cover:
🔹What ADHD and autism are
🔹Referral routes and assessment options for children and adults
🔹How the Right to Choose pathway works
🔹What happens after a diagnosis
🔹Useful organisations and resources for further information and support

Whether you are exploring assessment yourself, supporting a family member, or simply want to learn more, we hope this video helps make the process a little clearer. If you would like support exploring your options, please request an appointment with the practice so we can discuss this with you: https://accurx.nhs.uk/patient-initiated/h81020

🔗For all the useful links mentioned in the webinar, head to the comments 👇

17/03/2026

Following the tragic news from Kent University and surrounding schools, we would like to share important information about meningitis vaccinations.

You can find guidance on symptoms and vaccination on the NHS website here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/vaccination/

Any patient who missed their MenACWY vaccination as a teenager is still eligible to receive it up to the age of 25. Please contact the surgery to book an appointment: https://accurx.nhs.uk/patient-initiated/h81020

If you are concerned about symptoms or exposure, please seek medical advice promptly.

Meningitis can be very serious if not treated quickly.

The NHS website has all the information you need, including what to look out for and when to get medical help.

➡️ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/

13/03/2026

This we are resharing this important conversation 💙

Dr Tim Bates and Professor Stephen Langley discuss symptoms, screening and why early detection through a simple PSA test can save lives.

If you are a Fort House patient and have any concerns, or are interested in having a PSA test, please contact us at the surgery via the online booking form: https://accurx.nhs.uk/patient-initiated/h81020
If you are registered elsewhere, please get in touch with your GP to request a test.

11/03/2026

📌 Free workshop in Elmbridge for all dads-to-be and new dads with babies under 12 weeks old!

Calling all dads-to-be and new dads with babies under 12 weeks old!

We’re excited to be working with Elmbridge Family Centre to offer a FREE New Dad Workshop, designed to support you through the early days of parenthood.

This relaxed and supportive session will cover:
🔹Bonding and attachment
🔹Mum’s & dad’s mental health and wellbeing
🔹Coping with a crying baby
🔹Supporting your partner
🔹Where to go for help, advice, and support

Whether this is your first baby or you’re just looking for reassurance, this workshop is a safe space to ask questions, build confidence, and connect with other dads.

📍 Molesey Family Centre
📆 Tuesday, 17th March
⏰ 7pm – 8.30pm

Sign up for free here and we’ll see you there: ElmbridgeNDW.eventbrite.co.uk

06/03/2026

Women’s Health at Fort House Surgery 💜

To mark International Women’s Day on Sunday, we’re celebrating women’s achievements and strength, as well as reminding you to prioritise your own health too.

Our experienced women’s health team is here to support you at every stage of life. From periods and contraception to menopause care, fertility advice, pelvic health, pregnancy support, cervical screening and more. Visit our website for trusted resources and further information: https://www.forthousesurgery.nhs.uk/services/womens-health/

❔ Are you up to date with your screening ❔
Breast screening: Ages 50–71 (every 3 years)
Cervical screening: Ages 25–64 (every 5 years)

If you notice any changes or concerning symptoms please book an appointment, even if your screening is not due. Complete our appointment request form with as much detail as possible so we can book you with the right clinician: https://accurx.nhs.uk/patient-initiated/h81020

You can access local support and women-specific groups through our online Wellbeing Wall, designed to support your wider health and wellbeing: https://www.forthousesurgery.nhs.uk/category/wellbeing-wall/

Know your normal. Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it 💜

To read our first Women’s Health Newsletter, which highlights important information, resources and support relating to women’s health, please click the following link:https://www.forthousesurgery.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/1225/2026/03/Fort-House-Surgery-Womens-Health-Newsletter-March-26.pdf

02/03/2026

March is

If you have any concerns, please contact us at the surgery and request an appointment: https://accurx.nhs.uk/patient-initiated/h81020

23/02/2026

This week is Eating Disorder Awareness Week. We’re sharing this post from Beat, which highlights the importance of community and connection.

If you’re concerned about yourself or someone close to you, support is available. Visit https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/ or contact the surgery to arrange an appointment: https://accurx.nhs.uk/patient-initiated/h81020

18/02/2026

👋 Meet the Team!

Meet GP Dr Vicky Gavins who joined the practice last September.

🔹 Dr Gavins graduated from Peninsula Medical school in 2016 and gained experience working in South Wales before moving to Sydney, where she also completed her Yoga Teacher Training. She is a strong believer in the benefits of lifestyle medicine and wellbeing in achieving positive health outcomes.

🔹 She has a particular interest in women’s health and menopause and holds the Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Diploma of Sexual and Reproductive health and the CoSRH Menopause Care Professional Certificate.

Outside of work she plays tennis for her local team and loves running with her dog.