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On the 3rd of March Healthwatch Walsalls, First Friday Focus meeting was around bereavement services. Download a summary of that meeting. -
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A copy of our public meeting/ minutes. -
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This training will aim to improve early diagnosis of cancer, addressing some of the health inequalities. Talking helps breakdown fear and barriers. This training program is designed in conjunction with Cancer Research UK, and will give participants the knowledge and confidence to have conversations in their community about cancer prevention, myth busting and early diagnosis. -
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Dementia: shaping support in Walsall, Wednesday 10 May 2023, 9.30 am - 1.30 pm
Attend and help shape the future of services for people with dementia in Walsall. -
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Our 1st Friday Focus Meeting has been re-arranged! So there is a great opportunity to join us and raise your awareness of Bowel Cancer.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87588598286?pwd=SkU4RGhVbDV6ZThsdWxUaTNoM0ttZz09
If you need it? Meeting ID: 875 8859 8286
Dial by your location Telephone dial by your location: 0131 460 1196 United Kingdom
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Find out about what services and aspects of those services we will be looking at from 2023 to 2024 as part of our work plan. -
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH LEAD - £24,000 PER ANNUM
37 HOURS PER WEEK, FIXED TERM TO END MAY 2024
Healthwatch Walsall is the local health and social care champion for the people of Walsall. We make sure that NHS leaders and other decision makers hear peoples’ voices about the services and care they receive. We are looking to recruit an enthusiastic, experienced and self-motivated individual to be our Community Outreach Lead in Walsall. The individual will work flexibly from both the home base and the Healthwatch Walsall office, with the need to travel extensively across the Borough. The successful individual will work closely with the Healthwatch Walsall team to ensure that the views of Walsall people from all communities about NHS services, children’s and adults social care are captured and recorded. The role entails meeting people, often going to where people are naturally around in their day to day lives and striking up conversations to find about peoples experiences. If you are comfortable doing that then this is the role for you. -
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'Virtual Wards' 'What are they?'
Guest speaker: Fiona Micheli - Lead Nurse Care Navigation Centre /Virtual Wards
Join us for an informative presentation about what they are and have a chance to ask questions and learn all about it.
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Our' Cost Of Living Crisis' report is now available. See how people have made adjustments and whats important to them. -
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Reflexions is a Mental Health Support Team (MHST), that are a service that helps increase access to mental health
support for children and young people in schools. -
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Healthwatch Walsall want to hear from Black and Asian women living in Walsall about their maternity experiences. Were you happy with the treatment and care you received? We want to listen to your feedback and use this to influence service changes to make maternity services better, be more accessible, inclusive and for service users to have the highest quality of care.
Share your feedback by taking part in our short survey. It takes just a couple of minutes. What you tell us can help shape services for the people who use them.
Your feedback is anonymous, we will not ask your name and you do not have to tell us anything personal about yourself.
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So if you have tried to access NHS dental care/treatment in the past year, we ask you to take part in a short questionnaire. Please use the link: https://tinyurl.com/4hmfmadr
We will collate patient responses and publish a report on patients' experiences of trying to get NHS dental care/treatment in Walsall. -
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You have the right to make a complaint about any aspect of NHS care, treatment or service, this is written into the NHS Constitution on GOV.UK.
From 1 July 2023 the way you make a complaint about primary care services to the commissioner is changing.
By primary care services we mean GPs, dentists, opticians or pharmacy services.
Click on the 'Downloads' button to find out more.
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Packed with what we have been doing and going to be doing with messages from our partners. -
Report -
Read about our recent visit to Pleck Health Centre on 14th June 2023 -
News -
Childhood vaccinations video - English -
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Ahead of the August bank holiday weekend, people in the Black Country are being reminded how to access NHS health services if they need help.
The NHS often sees increased demand over bank holidays, and with consultants planning strike
action 7am on Thursday 24 August until 7am on Saturday 26 August, health services in the
Black Country are likely to be under significant pressure over the long weekend. All health and care partners in the Black Country are working together to prepare for the industrial action and bank holiday weekend and are asking the public for their support.
Due to the bank holiday (Monday 28 August), some GP surgeries and pharmacies may be closed or working reduced hours. Selected pharmacies will still be available for prescriptions, non-urgent medical advice, and treatment of common ailments. A full list of participating pharmacies, including opening hours, can be found here. Link: https://tinyurl.com/23duv3xn
People who need medical help that isn’t an emergency should contact NHS 111 in the first instance by visiting 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111.
NHS 111 can help direct people to the most appropriate local health service if they aren’t sure where to go – this could include an out of hours GP, a pharmacy, an urgent treatment centre, or a hospital accident & emergency (A&E) department.
Sarb Basi, Director of Primary Care for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “The NHS is expecting an extremely busy weekend over the upcoming bank holiday weekend, with services under significant pressure. That’s why it’s important that people choose services wisely during this time and take simple steps to ensure care is available for patients who need it.
“If you or a loved one needs medical help over the bank holiday weekend then please remember that NHS 111 online is available to help you. It will direct you to the most appropriate health service for your needs. If for any reason you are unable to use 111 online, then please phone 111 from your mobile or landline.
“A number of pharmacies will also remain open over the bank holiday and should be your first port of call for any minor illnesses. Pharmacists are trained medical professionals who can help with a range of ailments, from abdominal pain and sore throats to coughs and colds and urine infections.
“It is also useful to think about stocking your medicine cabinet up with any essentials in case you need to treat any unexpected minor health concerns at home over the long weekend. You can ask your local pharmacist for advice on any medicines you might need. “Choosing the right service not only means you receive the treatment you require, but also helps reduce pressure on urgent care teams, allowing them to focus on those who need them most.
” A&E departments and 999 are there to treat the most serious and life-threatening conditions.”
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From our current project, we have called Walsall Dentists to see who is registering new NHS dental patients. Attached is a shortlist of the ones we established that are on 25th August 2023. Note this list may change due to registration availability and waiting lists and times. -
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Extended healthcare teams are now supporting patients in GP practices across the Black Country. 🙌
They include a range of healthcare professionals who are highly skilled and knowledgeable in the areas they specialise in and can diagnose and treat a variety of health conditions.
Watch this short animation to learn about the different roles that make up extended healthcare teams, what they can do and how they can help you.
For more information: https://blackcountry.icb.nhs.uk/news-and-events/latest-news/extended-healthcare-teams-gp-practices
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Children in the Black Country will be offered a free NHS flu vaccine from September.
Flu is caused by the influenza virus; as well as being highly infectious, the virus can cause serious illnesses in children, such as sepsis and pneumonia. Last year, 6,000 children aged five and under in England ended up in hospital because of flu.
The flu vaccine is safe and effective and reduces your child’s chance of needing hospital care for flu by around two thirds. This year, children have been prioritised to get the flu vaccine from 1 September to protect them and help stop the virus spreading to others.
This includes:
• children aged six months to two years with an eligible long-term health condition
• children aged two to five years and not yet at school (children must be aged two years or above on 1 September 2023 to be eligible)
• all primary and secondary school children.
School aged children will be able to get the flu vaccine at school through their school’s vaccination programme. Pupils will receive parental consent forms before vaccinations are scheduled to take place in their school. Children aged two and three years, as well as those with long-term health conditions, will be able to get their flu vaccine at their GP practice.
Dr Fiona Rose, local GP and Clinical Director for Quality and Safety for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “Flu can be an unpleasant illness for children and sometimes causes serious complications. The good news is that vaccination greatly reduces the risk and protects the vaccinated person and those around them.
“Children can catch and spread flu easily so vaccinating them also protects others who are vulnerable such as babies and older people. Most children will receive the vaccine through a nasal spray into each nostril. It is quick and painless and is the best available protection against flu. “The vaccine reduces your chances of getting flu in the first place and also reduces the risks associated with flu. If your child were to get the flu, it's also much milder and they will recover much more quickly.”
If your child is aged between six months and two years and is in a high-risk group for flu, they’ll be offered a flu vaccine injection instead of the nasal spray. This is because the nasal spray is not licensed for children under two years. Children aged two to 17 years may also have the flu vaccine injection if the nasal spray vaccine is not suitable for them.
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Extended healthcare teams are now supporting patients in GP practices across the Black Country.
With demand on primary care increasing, GP practices are working differently to offer more appointments for their patients. In the Black Country, 609,044 appointments took place in June 2023, which is 43,000 more appointments than in May 2023 and 73,000 more appointments compared to June 2022.
To help manage this demand on services, local GP practice teams now include a range of healthcare professionals who are highly skilled and knowledgeable in the areas they specialise in and can diagnose and treat a variety of health conditions.
The different healthcare professionals that make up extended healthcare team includes:
• General practice nurses and nurse practitioners
• Healthcare assistants
• Physician associates
• GP registrars
• Practice based pharmacists
• Paramedics
• Physiotherapists
• Health and wellbeing coaches
• Social prescribing link workers
• Mental health practitioners.
All appointments are triaged to ensure patients are directed to the right professional. This means when patients contact the practice, a care navigator will ask for a brief outline of the problem. You may be asked questions when you contact the GP, this is so the teams can ensure you see the right professional.
Where appropriate, care navigators will direct patients to another service such as a pharmacy or optician.
Dr Mohit Mandiratta said: “GP practices are working hard to ensure patients can be seen by the right person, at the right time, as quickly as possible. “If your health concern needs to be assessed by a doctor, you will be offered an appointment with your GP. However, your GP isn’t always the right person for you to see. “The new roles now available at practices means people may be offered an appointment with a healthcare professional from the extended healthcare team, who will be able to help based on their individual needs. These are highly skilled and qualified professionals that work alongside GPs, who have specialist skills, knowledge, and experience for certain health conditions. “Not all surgeries will have all of these roles, but your practice reception team will help guide you to the most appropriate care as soon as possible when booking an appointment.”
Sarb Basi, Director of Primary for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “With demand on primary care increasing, it’s important that we do things in a new way to help improve patients’ experience and access to GP services. “Our extended health care teams include a range of highly skilled and qualified professionals, who are experts in their fields, working closely together with GPs to deliver high quality care for
all patients. “By ensuring that patients see the most appropriate professional within the primary care setting, GPs can focus on those patients who most urgently require their care. “GP practices might be working differently, but they are very much open and here to see people if necessary, so please continue to come forward if you need help.”
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Eligible adults in the Black Country can now receive the shingles vaccine.
Shingles is an extremely painful condition which can develop after a chicken pox infection. It can occur at any age, but the risk and severity of shingles and its complications increase with age and is higher in individuals who have a severely weakened immune system.
Some cases can result in serious symptoms such as blindness, hearing loss, nerve pain and potentially death, however the shingles vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of people developing shingles and experiencing nasty symptoms. The shingles vaccine was previously offered to adults aged over 70. However, following
recommendation from the Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), the vaccine will now be offered to those anyone who is severely immunosuppressed and over 50 from 1 September. Those turning 65 and 70 will also be eligible for the vaccine after their birthday. It means thousands more people in the Black Country will be able to get protected against shingles each year.
There are two vaccines that are used in the shingles vaccination programme. Which vaccine you will be given depends on your age and immune status, your GP will advise on this. Both provide effective protection against shingles and once your course is completed, you will not need any more shingles vaccines.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “Shingles is a virus that can occur at any age, but the risk and severity of shingles and its complications increase with age.
“It can’t be caught from other people, instead it develops in people who have previously been infected with chickenpox over their lifetime. The virus is typically reactivated in older age, or by certain medicines, illness or stress.
“Having the vaccination if you are eligible is really important. It can prevent you from getting shingles or reduce the severity of the symptoms if you do get it. “From 1 September 2023, your GP practice should invite you for the shingles vaccination as you turn 65 or 70, or if you are aged over 50 and have a weakened immune system. If they don’t you can make an appointment yourself by contacting your GP.” -
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People in the Black Country are being urged to think carefully about which health service they should use during this week’s industrial action. Hospital consultants are expected to go on strike for 48 hours from 7am on Tuesday 19 September until 7am on Thursday 21 September. Junior doctors will be on strike for 72 hours from 7am on Wednesday 20 September until 7am on Saturday 23 September.
This means that on Wednesday 20 September, both junior doctors and consultants will be on strike at the same time. All health and care partners in the Black Country are working together to prepare for the industrial action and are asking the public for their support. Emergency care will be prioritised, and people are being reminded that 999 and emergency departments are still the right services if it is a life-saving emergency.
However, for anything that isn’t life-threatening, people are being urged to use 111 online as the first port of call for health needs. People can also call 111 for help, advice, and signposting to the most appropriate service. Pharmacies, GP appointments, walk-in centres, minor injury units and urgent treatment centres will continue to be available during the industrial action and can help people with a range of injuries and illnesses. People with hospital appointments should continue to come forward for the care they need and do not need to call to check if appointments are going ahead. If appointments do need to be rearranged due to strike action, patients will be contacted directly.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “NHS services are currently extremely busy, and we expect them to remain busy and under increased pressure during the strike action taking place this week.
“We are working closely with our health and care partners to ensure those in greatest need continue to have access to high-quality care and support, however, it’s vital that people choose services wisely over this period so that care is available to patients who need it most. “If you need medical help or advice, you should contact NHS 111 online in the first instance, and they will direct you to the most appropriate service for advice or treatment. This could include your local pharmacy, GP or a local NHS walk-in centre. 999 and A&E departments should only be used if it is a life-threatening emergency. “We’d like to thank people for their patience and their ongoing support by using NHS services appropriately.” Dr Jonathan Odum, Group Chief Medical Officer for The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “Ahead of the upcoming strike action, we are asking patients to please use NHS services wisely and to only use A&E departments and 999 for life threatening emergencies to ensure care is available to patients who need it most.
“We do expect there to be an impact on some appointments and clinics but ask patients to continue to attend planned appointments unless you hear directly from the NHS to make new arrangements. “We thank the public for their support, and we are also incredibly grateful to all of the health and care staff across the Black Country who are working tirelessly to ensure patients get the right treatment, as quickly as possible, in the right place.”
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More than 440,000 eligible people in the Black Country can now book their life-saving autumn COVID-19 vaccine.
Eligible people can now book their COVID-19 vaccination online via the National Booking System, by downloading the NHS App, or by calling 119 for free. Eligible groups may also be offered a vaccination by their GP surgeries or other local NHS services.
Those eligible include:
• all adults aged 65 and over
• care home residents
• frontline health and social care staff
• those at increased risk because they are pregnant or have a certain underlying health condition
• unpaid carers
• household contacts of those at risk.
The annual flu vaccine is also being made available to these groups, with more than 700,000 people in the Black Country eligible for a free flu vaccine.
This year’s adult COVID-19 and flu vaccination programme has been brought forward on the advice of scientists following the emergence of a new variant (BA.2.86) and ahead of the winter period.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “It is important for those who are eligible to top up their protection, even if they have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, as immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year.
“The NHS winter flu and COVID-19 vaccination programme provides vital protection to those eligible and their families over winter, keeping people from developing serious illnesses, and helping to minimise hospitalisations during busy winter months.
“So, I strongly encourage all eligible people to book their lifesaving winter vaccines as soon as they can.” -
Advice and Information -
The Positive Outcomes Project (POP) is a health and wellbeing service catered for young adults aged 16-25 in Walsall. We are here to create an accessible support network that is welcoming. We will mentor young adults by exploring challenges together and any issues that are affecting them. We will encourage better coping mechanisms and signpost to specialist help. This service is co-produced and designed by them, which adds ownership and creativity.
There are a few pathways to engage young adults in this service. The Hubs are a friendly, safe space, where young adults can drop in, socialise, and access the necessary support. We will be opening 6 Hubs in key locations across Walsall. These will host positive group activities which include a life hacks group, employability skills and many more depending on current issues raised. Whilst we are waiting for our Hubs to open, we will be using our mobile hub “the youth bus” to visit communities as a pop-up drop-in service. We
encourage everyone to keep an eye on our social media pages, as it will inform you if we are in your local area.
The website is an online directory which is accessible to everyone, it covers a vast number of issues and provides links and details of referral pathways. This can be used to signpost young adults to a wide range of local health and wellbeing services. Mentoring and 1 to 1 support are available via a referral through our website. This allows a nurturing approach with the young adult being matched with one of our mentors, who are trained to deliver health and wellbeing support. Our mentors are passionate about making a difference and changing lives. Our mentors will be present at the Hubs to motivate and inspire young adults. Sessions can be in person or virtually to ensure young adults are comfortable in engaging and get the most out of the service.
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Pop-up COVID-19 and flu vaccination clinics are being set up in the Black Country to encourage people to come forward for a vaccine ahead of winter.
The community pop-up clinics are being hosted at a range of locations in Wolverhampton, Dudley, Walsall and Sandwell, with no appointment necessary.
Anyone aged 18 and over who is eligible for an autumn COVID-19 or flu vaccine is encouraged to come forward as soon as possible.
Those eligible include:
• all adults aged 65 and over
• care home residents
• frontline health and social care staff
• those at increased risk because they are pregnant or have a certain underlying health condition
• unpaid carers
• household contacts of those at risk.
Walk in vaccines are available at the following locations over the next week: Wolverhampton:
• Park Village Education Centre, Cannock Road, WV10 0RA
o Tuesday 3 October, 1pm-7pm
o Saturday 7 October, 10am-4pm
o Sunday 8 October, 10am-4pm
Dudley:
• Dudley Market Place, High Street, DY1 1PQ, Friday 6 October, 9am-1pm
• Moor Centre, Brierly Hill, DY5 3AH, Saturday 7 October, 9am-1pm
Walsall:
• The Square, New Invention, Willenhall, WV12 5EA, Wednesday 4 October, 10am-2pm
• Sainsbury's, Reedswood Way, WS2 8XA, Friday 6 October, 3pm-7pm
Sandwell:
• Tesco, Fox Oak Street, Cradley Heath, B64 5DF, Tuesday 3 October, 10am-2pm
• Tesco, New Square, West Bromwich, B70 7PR, Sunday 8 October, 10am-2pm
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “For some people, flu and COVID-19 symptoms are unpleasant, but for many, particularly those with certain health conditions, older people, and pregnant women, they can be very dangerous and even life-threatening.
“Vaccinations are our best defence against these viruses and remain the best way to protect yourself, your friends and family which is particularly important as we approach the winter months.
“Our pop-up clinics are a great way for those eligible for a flu or autumn COVID-19 vaccine to get vaccinated at a time and location that suits them, with no appointment necessary. You don’t need to wait to be invited if you’re eligible, just come forward as soon as you can.
“If anyone is hesitant about the vaccine or has any questions, the pop-up clinics are also an opportunity to speak to experts from the NHS in a private and confidential environment, so please do pop along even if it’s just to have a conversation.”
The pop-up vaccination clinics will continue through October with more dates and venues to be added over the next week. Please visit the NHS Black Country ICB website for more information.
In addition to the pop-up clinics, eligible people can book their autumn COVID-19 vaccine online via the National Booking System, or by calling 119.
Flu vaccinations are also available at a range of community pharmacies. To find a pharmacy near you visit the NHS.
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Packed with what we have been doing and going to be doing with messages from our partners. -
Report -
A brief outline of some of the themes and issues that patients have faced using Walsall Services during September 2023. Also, things that you can get involved with! -
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A brief outline of some of the themes and issues that patients have faced using Walsall Services during July 2023. Also, things that you can get involved with! -
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October is World Menopause Month, and October 18th celebrated as World Menopause Awareness Day, with the focus this year on cardiovascular health. Established in 2009 by the International Menopause Society in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), World Menopause Month aims to raise awareness of the menopause and the possible associated health issues, whilst promoting support options available to improve the health and wellbeing of those navigating the menopause transition.
To show our support to colleagues experiencing menopause, Engaging Communities Solutions (ECS), is a signatory of the Workplace Menopause pledge:
Our Managing Director, Elizabeth Learoyd said, “We are committed to supporting our employees in the workplace and caring for their health and wellbeing. While no two people experience menopause in the same way, menopause represents a significant well-being concern for many. That is why we recognise the importance of raising awareness of the potential impacts of menopause as a first step towards ensuring everybody gets the help they need to safeguard their health and wellbeing at work”. -
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This Ask Your Pharmacist Week (30 October – 6 November), people in the Black Country are being reminded to speak to their local pharmacist for any health advice this winter. Ask Your Pharmacist Week is an annual initiative organised by the National Pharmacy Association, which aims to raise awareness of the full range of services on offer in pharmacies.
This year’s theme is ‘meet your local pharmacist team’, highlighting the skills and knowledge of community pharmacists and the wider pharmacy team and their track record of safely delivering clinical services.
At a time when the NHS is preparing for what is expected to be a challenging winter, people are being reminded of this vital line of support that is available in their local pharmacy. Pharmacies can help with a wide range of minor conditions, including coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy trouble and aches and pains. They can also help with dispensing medicines, repeat prescriptions, and help people choose the correct over-the-counter-medicine. Some also offer vaccination services.
Stephen Noble, local pharmacist and Chief Officer of the Community Pharmacy Dudley, said: “Ask Your Pharmacist Week is a great opportunity for us to highlight the important role pharmacists play in helping people to stay well, especially as we head into the
winter months.
“As experts in medicine, pharmacists can help you with almost any health concerns you may have, whether that's providing treatment on the spot or signposting you to the right alternative NHS service. You don’t need to book an appointment to speak to your pharmacist, just ask for a private chat. It’s free and confidential.
“It’s vital that people seek medical advice in order to stay safe and well so please don’t wait for minor illnesses to get worse – think pharmacy first and visit your local pharmacy today.”
Patients registered with a GP practice in the Black Country can also make use of the Pharmacy First service. This service provides people who are exempt from prescription charges with overthe-counter medicines rather than you needing to see a GP to receive the medication on a free prescription. -
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More than 39,000 GP appointments were missed in September, new data for the Black Country has revealed.
The latest figures for GP access shows that in September more than 630,000 appointments were delivered in the Black Country, however nearly 40,000 appointments were recorded as “did not attend” – commonly referred to as DNAs. This is where a patient fails to attend an appointment and does not cancel so it can’t be rebooked by the practice.
To understand the reasons why people might not cancel appointments that are no longer needed, the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) is encouraging patients to share their views and take part in a survey.
The survey asks about their previous experiences with cancelling GP appointments and what measures they think should be put in place to help with this. It also includes questions such as why they might have missed a GP appointment, for example for issues with travel, work commitments or having caring responsibilities.
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Be Well Walsall is a new wellbeing service for Walsall provided by Maximus. Our expert team will focus on helping your patients with long-lasting behaviour changes.
This service will be taking over from One You Walsall delivered by My Time Active from Wednesday 1 November. -
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Parents and carers in the Black Country are being reminded to get their children
vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
Measles is a highly infectious disease which can lead to serious complications if it is not treated. In the most severe cases, it can develop into more threatening conditions such as pneumonia, especially in those with a weakened immune system.
Symptoms of measles include:
• a high fever
• rash
• cough
• runny nose
• watery eyes.
All children are invited for their first MMR vaccine on the NHS when they turn one. The second dose is given when they reach three years and four months of age. Having two doses of the vaccine provides the best protection against MMR.
In the Black Country, more than 400 children are eligible for a first dose of the vaccine, while a further 700 are eligible for a second dose.
Dr Fiona Rose, local GP and Clinical Director for Quality and Safety for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine, which protects against three serious illnesses - measles, mumps, and rubella.
“These are viral infections that can spread quickly and make children seriously ill, which is why it’s vital that they get the maximum protection.
“Millions of MMR vaccination doses are given each year to offer the best protection and, speaking as both a doctor and a parent, the MMR vaccine is the best possible way to keep our children safe and healthy.
“So, I am urging parents and guardians to check their child’s red book to make sure they are fully vaccinated against this disease.”
Parents who are unsure if their child is up to date with all their routine vaccinations should check their child’s Red Book (personal child health record), the NHS App, or contact their GP practice.
Adults and older children can also be vaccinated at any age if they have not been fully vaccinated before and are being encouraged to come forward if they haven’t had two doses.
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Across the Black Country there were than 39,000 GP appointments were missed in September, see news release here: More than 39,000 missed GP appointments :: Black Country ICB
To understand the reasons why people might not cancel appointments that are no longer needed, the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) is encouraging patients to share their views and take part in a survey.
The survey asks about their previous experiences with cancelling GP appointments and what measures they think should be put in place to help with this. It also includes questions such as why they might have missed a GP appointment, for example for issues with travel, work commitments or having caring responsibilities.
The survey is open until 10 December and anyone registered to a GP practice is encouraged to take part in the survey, which can be completed online. -
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Final chance for children who have missed their flu vaccines in school to receive them at the following clinic: Blentley Community Centre and Cafe, Wilkes Avenue, Walsall, WS2 0JN. Saturday 9th December from 09.00-1.30
To make an appointment please call 01922 902035
For children who are unable to receive the nasal spray there is an alternative injectable option -
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Important information. -
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This project was an agreed piece of work from patients/service user experiences we received during 2019/2020. Patients indicated that they were having difficulties contacting a number of GP surgeries/practices.
Patient intelligence was gathered from various sources: our online service feedback centre, face to face outreach, calls to our Freephone telephone number and our Email info@ account.
It should be noted that this intelligence was gathered and was happening prior to the outbreak of COVID-19 -
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If this is you? Or a loved one? Get in touch. Tel: 0800 470 1660 or email:info@healthwatchwalsall.co.uk -
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Read our latest work project 2023/2024 report on NHS dental Care services in Walsall. -
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Read or download a copy.
We asked the Practice Manager to send any comments about the Enter and Visit that was undertaken and this is what they said.
‘Thanks again to the Healthwatch Team for undertaking the Enter and View visit. The team was accommodating prior to the visit and also attentive to details during conversations with the practice team during the visit. It was beneficial to gain the insights and experience of the Healthwatch Team from the visit and the resulting report. I would also like to thank Tom for his advice and guidance.’ -
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People in the Black Country are being urged to think carefully about which health service they should use during the upcoming industrial action and the Christmas and New Year bank holidays.
Junior doctors are planning to strike from 7am Wednesday 20 December 2023 through to 7am Saturday 23 December 2023, and again from 7am Wednesday 3 January 2024 until 7am Tuesday 9 January 2024, during the traditionally busy Christmas and New Year period.
All health and care partners in the Black Country are working together to prepare for the industrial action and the bank holidays, which will have significant impact on NHS local services, and are asking the public for their support.
Emergency care will be prioritised, and people are being reminded that 999 and emergency departments are still the right services if it is a life-saving emergency. However, for anything that isn’t life-threatening, people are being urged to use 111 online as the first port of call for health needs. People can also call 111 for help, advice, and signposting to the most appropriate service.
Pharmacies, GP appointments, walk-in centres, minor injury units and urgent treatment centres will continue to be available during the industrial action and can help people with a range of injuries and illnesses. People with hospital appointments should continue to come forward for the care they need and do not need to call to check if appointments are going ahead. If appointments do need to be rearranged due to strike action, patients will be contacted directly.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “We’re approaching what is already one of the busiest times of the year for the NHS and there is no doubt that this level of planned strike action alongside the festive period will create an even greater strain on many of our services.
“Your NHS is still here for you, but we’re asking people to consider whether A&E is the most appropriate place for their needs, and if it’s not, to seek alternatives. “NHS 111 online or by telephone is available 24/7 for urgent medical advice but it's worth remembering that most common ailments at this time of year can be effectively managed at home with advice from a local pharmacy.
“By ensuring you choose the most appropriate service, you will not only you save time waiting, but you will be treated by the most appropriate healthcare professional for your needs. This will also help NHS services to manage demand and ensure hospitals can focus on treating people with serious and life-threatening conditions.”
The NHS has also been reminding people to order any repeat prescriptions in advance. This not only helps avoid a last-minute rush for GP practices and pharmacies, but also helps ease the burden on the NHS 111 service and hospitals.
Dr Julian Hobbs, Medical Director at Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Undoubtedly this festive period will be a huge challenge as we prepare not only for our busiest time of the year, but also the impact of the longest industrial action period so far across our hospitals.
“Our number one priority is to ensure that those in greatest need continue to have access to high quality care and our immediate focus will be on the safe delivery of urgent and emergency care services.
“Planned appointments and clinics are likely to be affected, however people should continue to attend their appointments unless they are contacted directly by the NHS.
“I'd also like to thank all health and care teams across the Black Country for their work over this busy time, as always your dedication in helping those who need help and support is greatly appreciated.”
NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do. You can contact the service online 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
A small number of pharmacies will be open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day for any people in need of an emergency prescription, urgent advice on medicine or a confidential consultation for a minor health concern.
Opening times for all of the Black Country’s pharmacies, including those staying open on the bank holidays, can be found on the NHS website.
People should only call 999 if it is a medical emergency
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News -
Local health chiefs have issued important guidance following the updated cold weather
alert.
The Met Office, in conjunction with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), has issued an amber weather alert, which is currently in place from Sunday 7 January to Friday 12 January, as severe winter weather is forecast.
An amber alert means extreme cold conditions are expected, with the elderly, people with underlying health conditions, babies and very young children at risk from the weather. In the Black Country, forecasters have predicted severe cold weather and icy conditions with temperatures continuing to reach below zero this week.
People are encouraged to take extra precautions to keep safe while the alerts are in place, such as checking on vulnerable friends and neighbours, keeping food and medications in stock and ensuring homes are adequately heated.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “Taking extra care during cold weather is really important, particularly for people who are more vulnerable to suffering ill health due to the cold, such as babies and very young children, older people, pregnant women and people with pre-existing medical conditions.
“It is recommended that we should heat our homes to at least 18 degrees Celsius in winter as this minimises risks to our health. If you can’t heat all the rooms you use, heat the living room during the day and your bedroom just before you go to bed.
“Try to avoid going out in cold icy weather but if you do need to go outside wear shoes with slip resistant grip and wear a few layers of thin clothing rather than one thick layer to trap in heat. It is also important that you have frequent hot food and drinks as these can help to keep you warm.
“Make sure you also take the current weather alert into account when planning any activity over
the following few days and try to avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions,
especially if you’re at a higher risk of cold-related illness or falls.
“We are also asking everyone to remember the needs of friends, relatives, and neighbours who could be at risk during this period of cold weather. Make sure they’re well, and warm and have sufficient stocks of food and medicines, in case they cannot go out for a few days.”
For more advice on staying well in cold weather, visit the NHS website here. -
Report -
A brief outline of some of the issues and themes that patients have faced when accessing Walsall Services during October 2023.
Also, things that you can get involved with! -
Report -
A brief outline of some of the issues and themes that patients have faced when accessing Walsall Services during December 2023.
Also, things that you can get involved with! -
News -
A callout to anyone who has used the NEW Emergency and Urgent Care Centre at Walsall Manor Hospital.
Share your experience, call us on 0800 470 1660 or Email: info@healthwatchwalsall.co.uk -
News -
The Black Country Local Maternity and Neonatal System (BCLMNS) is looking at a way of working across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton. This would mean that care is based on where women and birthing people plan to have their babies – rather than being based on geography -
Advice and Information -
Diabetes Self Care Management Programme
If you are living with Diabetes, why not join the Diabetes Self Care Management Programme and take better care of yourself. -
Advice and Information -
If you are living with Chronic Pain, why not join the Chronic Pain Self Care Management Programme and take better care of yourself -
News -
Engaging Communities Solutions (ECS) is the organisation that delivers your local Healthwatch service. As well as delivering local Healthwatch, ECS carries out social research for a range of clients who are usually from the public sector. The subjects that we cover are mainly health and social care related but sometimes we carry out projects that are about other topics too. To be able to involve more people in our research projects we are now recruiting people to join our Participant Panel. Members of the panel are people who would like to take
part in focus groups or interviews about different subjects and contribute to service improvements or new developments that are not part of the work of the local Healthwatch. You will receive a thank you for any focus groups or interviews that you take part in as a Panel Member such as a gift voucher.
If you are interested in joining our Participant Panel, please complete the registration form Https://engagingcommunities.welcomesyourfeedback.net/3d8r22 , or if you have any questions about the Panel, please contact Research Manager, Deborah Faulks, on 07876 897098 or deborah.faulks@weareecs.co.u