September marks World Pharmacist Day on the 25th, a perfect opportunity to recognise the incredible work of our Senior Clinical Pharmacist, Kalpna Merchant.

Kalpna is a highly experienced professional with extensive knowledge in diabetes and asthma. She plays a vital role in supporting many of our patients as well as our clinical team, helping to navigate the ever-changing landscape of treatments and medications.

We are truly grateful for Kalpna’s dedication and hard work in ensuring the best care for our patients.

We are pleased to inform you that from 26 August, two Year 6 medical students from Cambridge University, Megan Maties and Alex Saunders, will be joining us for six weeks. As a recognised training practice, we are proud to support the next generation of doctors.

If you are booked to see a student during this period, you will be informed beforehand. Please rest assured that all appointments with medical students are fully supervised by one of our experienced GPs, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care.

Thank you for helping us in training future healthcare professionals.

We are pleased to welcome Karen O’Neill, who joined us this week as part of our Patient Services Team.

We will also be joined by a new Social Prescriber, Lynne Remick, who starts with the PCN on 8 September. Lynne will be working at The Hall Practice on Mondays and Thursdays, and will spend the rest of the week supporting other practices within the PCN.

Sadly, Dr Ghania Ilyas will be leaving us on 23 September after successfully completing her ST3 training. We wish her all the very best and good luck with her future career.

At The Hall Practice patient safety is our top priority. Some medications require regular annual blood tests to ensure they are working safely and effectively for you. These tests help us monitor your health and adjust your treatment if necessary.

If you take medicines like Levothyroxine or medicines for blood pressure or heart problems that need regular checks, you will be asked to have a blood test at least once a year.

Why is this important?

Missing your blood test appointment may lead to delays or reductions in your medication supply, as we need up-to-date test results before safely continuing prescriptions.

What should you do?

Please book your blood test appointment using the link or phone number provided in the text message you receive. If you receive a letter in the post, it will also include these contact details.

Please do not contact the practice directly to book, change, or cancel your blood test appointment.

The following cohorts are announced and authorised to be eligible to receive a flu vaccination at the practice.

From 1 September 2025

• Pregnant women
• All children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2025
• Primary school aged children (from Reception to Year 6)
• Secondary school aged children (from Year 7 to Year 11)
• All children in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to less than 18 years

Please note: All primary school and secondary school children will be given at the school not at the practice.

As usual, patients who are eligible will be contacted directly by the surgery to book their vaccination appointment. Please wait for this invitation before contacting us.

Getting vaccinated helps protect you and those around you from serious illness. If you have any questions or want to check your eligibility, please visit the NHS website or GOV.UK for the latest information.

Please help us improve your care by completing the Friends & Family Survey.

Scan the QR code to complete it online. Paper forms are available at reception. Use the forms to share any suggestions or feedback if you prefer not to complete the survey.

We are excited to offer NHS App Guidance Sessions to support our patients in confidently using the NHS App. These one-to-one appointments are designed to help you with online consultations, booking appointments, ordering repeat prescriptions, and securely accessing your health records from home.

The sessions will be available by appointment only, starting on Saturday morning, 13th September. Our team members will be on hand to guide you through the app, answer your questions, and provide assistance.

Please note, that while our team can help you navigate the app and provide guidance, they are not digital technology experts and may not be able to resolve all technical issues. When needed, they can direct you to additional resources for further support.

Appointments are limited, so please book early by contacting our Patient Services Team. Depending on demand, we may add more sessions during the week.

Take advantage of this free service to enhance your experience with the NHS App!

To make the most of your one-to-one session, please:

• Bring your own device: laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
• Have your mobile phone number available.
• Have a unique email address ready (one email per patient).
• If possible, download the NHS App beforehand from Google Play or Apple App Store.
• Ensure your device is fully charged or bring a charger.
• Have any login details or passwords for your NHS App account, if already set up.

Suicide affects not only the individual but everyone around them – family, friends, and communities.

Ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, we want to raise awareness and remind our patients that help is available.

If you, or anyone you know, are struggling with thoughts of suicide or mental health difficulties, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to support you.

Are you a parent of an autistic child or exploring neurodiversity?

The Autism Early Support Parent’s Portal is an online community and offers 24/7 access to reliable information, support, and guidance.

The portal features resources to watch and read, live workshops, parent support groups, and discussion forums. You’ll find advice on schooling, EHCPs, strategies for home, and a supportive community of parents and practitioners.

For unlimited access to all features, there’s a small monthly fee. Vist the website for more information.

As part of the NHS England “Know Your Numbers” campaign running from 8 to 14 September 2025, we want to encourage all our patients to be aware of their blood pressure numbers. High blood pressure is often symptomless but can increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart attacks and strokes.

You can have your blood pressure checked at any local pharmacy or book an appointment with one of our healthcare assistants here at the practice.

We also run a Blood Pressure Monitoring Scheme for patients who need to keep a diary of their blood pressure readings over 4 to 7 days, measuring morning and evening. Patients required to do so can borrow a blood pressure monitor from the surgery for home use; a £20 deposit is required for the loan.

Knowing your numbers is a simple but vital step toward managing your health and preventing future illness.

Migraine Awareness Week is an important time to increase understanding about migraine—a common neurological condition that affects millions of people. Migraine is more than just a headache; it can cause severe, throbbing pain often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances.

The aim of Migraine Awareness Week is to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and provide support for those living with migraine. Many people suffer in silence, unaware of the treatments and support available that can help manage this condition and improve quality of life.

If you experience regular or severe headaches, or think you might be affected by migraine, please get in touch with us.

Our team can offer advice, support, and treatment options tailored to your needs.

You don’t have to manage migraine alone, we’re here to help.