Practice News Feed

Welcoming Dr Nash as a GP Partner

We are delighted to share that, from 1st April, Dr Nash will be joining the practice as a GP Partner.

Many of our patients will already know Dr Nash from his time with us as a salaried GP, and we are very pleased that he will now be taking on this new role within the practice. Becoming a partner reflects his ongoing commitment to providing high-quality care and to the long-term future of our practice and patient community.

As part of this change, some patients will be assigned to Dr Nash as their named, accountable GP. This is an administrative role that helps ensure continuity and oversight of your care. If this applies to you, we will contact you directly to let you know.

We would like to reassure all patients that this does not affect your ability to see any GP of your choice, and our team remains here to support you in exactly the same way as before.

We hope you will join us in welcoming Dr Nash to the partnership, and we look forward to his continued contribution to the care of our patients.

Meningitis B outbreak – information for our patients

There is currently an outbreak of meningococcal disease (MenB) in Kent.  We understand this may be concerning and want to provide clear advice for our patients.

What is the current situation?

Cases have been identified mainly in teenagers and young adults, with a cluster in the south of England linked to close-contact settings such as social gatherings and shared accommodation.

Public health teams are actively managing the situation.

The overall risk to the general public remains low.

How meningitis B spreads

Meningitis B bacteria are carried in the back of the nose and throat and are spread through close, prolonged contact, such as:

• Kissing
• Sharing drinks, bottles, vapes, or cigarettes
• Living in close quarters (e.g. student housing)

It is not easily spread through casual contact.

Symptoms – when to seek urgent help

Meningitis can become serious very quickly. Please seek urgent medical attention (call 999 or attend A&E) if you or your child develops:

• Fever, headache, vomiting
• Stiff neck or sensitivity to light
• Drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty waking
• Cold hands/feet, limb pain, pale or mottled skin
• A rash that does not fade when pressed

Early symptoms can feel like flu, but symptoms can worsen rapidly.

Vaccination

• The MenB vaccine is routinely offered to babies as part of the NHS schedule
• Older children, teenagers and young adults may not be vaccinated against MenB
• Vaccination is being offered to specific groups identified as at higher risk

What should you do?

• No action is needed for most people at this time
• Be aware of the symptoms listed above
• Avoid sharing drinks, vapes, or cigarettes
• Follow advice if contacted by public health teams

What you need to know

While meningitis is serious, it remains rare, and public health teams are taking appropriate action to control this outbreak.

When to get help

Do not wait for a GP appointment if you are concerned about meningitis.

If you think someone may have meningitis or sepsis, do not delay:

• Call 999 or go to A&E immediately

For non-urgent advice, you can contact NHS 111.

Best Start in Life - supporting families every step of the way

Calling all parents and carers -Best Start in Life is here to help you and your child thrive, from pregnancy through to starting school.

Being a parent brings incredible moments of joy alongside natural worries and questions. Whether you're expecting your first baby, understanding your child’s early health, navigating their first day in childcare, or preparing for school, the Best Start in Life website brings together a range of trusted  information and support in one easy-to-access place.

How to access support:

• Explore the Best Start in Life website for resources and information
• Sign up for Best Start in Life emails and newsletter for regular updates and 
guidance
• Check a breakfast clubs map to see if your child’s school offers free breakfast club
• Find out how you can save money on early education and childcare with 
the online childcare checker
• Follow @DfE and @DHSCgovuk on social media for news and tips

Don’t Miss Out!
Visit beststartinlife.gov.uk today! We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Flu Vaccinations – Book Now

It’s flu season. Protect yourself and those around you by booking your flu vaccine.

Eligible patients will receive an SMS text message invitation from the practice.
If you believe you are eligible but haven’t received a message, please call us on 📞 01773 713201.

You can also check eligibility here: NHS flu vaccination guidance.

Patient Participation Group – Join Us

We are always looking for patients to join our Patient Participation Group (PPG).
The PPG helps us improve services and represents the patient voice in practice decisions.
Find out more here: Patient Participation Group

NHS App – Your Health in Your Pocket

The NHS App is a simple and secure way to access your health online.
You can:

• Order repeat prescriptions

• View your medical record

• Book and manage appointments

• Receive messages from the practice

Download it free from your app store or find out more on the NHS App website