-
News -
Under proposals from the Black Country Provider Collaborative (BCPC) – made up of The Royal olverhampton NHS Trust, Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust and The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust – Urology cancer patients will have their surgery at one designated centre, depending on their illness. An overview of the proposals is below:
Surgery for renal/kidney cancer patients would take place at Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley, which would become a specialised renal/kidney surgical centre, including robotic surgery. This would create the capacity for an additional approximately 170 robotic surgical procedures per year, taking the total to up to 300 annually.
Prostate and/or bladder cancer patients’ surgery will continue to be at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton, where it is currently undertaken. New Cross would become the urological pelvic surgical centre. With the proposed renal/kidney surgical centre at Russells Hall, additional capacity would be created at New Cross to carry out between 280-421 urological procedures – cystectomies (removal of the bladder) and prostatectomies (partial or complete removal of the prostate) per year.
Patients requiring complex kidney stone surgery would have that undertaken at Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust Hospitals Trust, which would become the complex kidney stone surgical centre. It is anticipated that based on available capacity this will impact 85-132 patients annually.
Patients’ pre and post operative care appointments would still take place at their local hospital.
Dr Jonathan Odum, Chief Medical Officer for the BCPC, said: “We want to ensure all patients across the Black Country are able to receive high quality care in the area. The aim is to improve urological surgical cancer and renal stone service provision, with many positive benefits.”
The benefits include:
Improved outcomes for patients
Improved quality of life through faster access to cancer surgery
Improved satisfaction with level of care and the positive patient experience
Reduction in waiting times, to meet the national cancer targets
Better use of theatre capacity across all four Trusts
Creating more opportunities for patients to access care from Black County Providers, rather than travelling to other areas
Developing a more skilled and experienced workforce, with greater staff retention and recruitment -
News -
But you can get involved now!
Have you accessed Walsall Urology Services in the last 18 months? We want to hear your experiences about the treatment and care you received. Tel: 07732 683464 or FreePhone: 0800 470 1660 or Email: info@healthwatchwalsall.co.uk
Tell us about your individual experience by phone or by Email!
-
News -
Due to the bank holiday some services such as GP surgeries and pharmacies may be closed or working on a reduced service. Selected pharmacies will still be available for prescriptions, non-urgent medical advice, and treatment of common ailments.
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, a local NHS walk-in centre, or a hospital accident & emergency (A&E) department. -
News -
Pregnant women in the Black Country are being reminded to come forward for a whooping cough vaccination, as cases continue to rise.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs and airways. It spreads very easily and can sometimes cause serious problems, especially in babies and young children.
Initial symptoms are similar to those of a common cold, including a runny nose and a mild fever. After a week, the infection can develop into coughing bouts that are often worse at night. Some babies and adults may make a ‘whoop’ sound and have difficulty breathing after coughing.
Mums-to-be are offered the vaccine between 16 and 32 weeks of pregnancy so their baby has protection against whooping cough until they are old enough to have the routine immunisation at 8 weeks old.
All babies are given three doses of the 6-in-1 jab combination vaccine at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age to protect against whooping cough and other serious diseases, such as diphtheria and polio, with a pre-school booster offered at 3 years 4 months. It's best to have them on time, but children can still have the 6-in-1 vaccine up to the age of 10.
The NHS has created a video with Rickell Bailey, the midwifery led unit manager at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, to explain why the whooping cough vaccine is important. You can watch the video on YouTube. Liz Punter, Midwife at The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, also explains why pregnant women should come forward for a vaccine. She said: “The only way you can help protect your baby from getting whooping cough in their first few weeks after birth is by having the whooping cough vaccination yourself while you are pregnant.
“The best time to get vaccinated to protect your baby from whooping cough is from 16 weeks up to 32 weeks of pregnancy. This maximises the chance that your baby will be protected from birth, through the transfer of your antibodies before they are born. -
News -
The NHS is urging anyone eligible for a spring COVID-19 vaccination to come forward now.
The spring COVID-19 vaccination roll out started in April, with adults aged 75 years and over, residents in care homes for older adults and those aged six months and over who have a weakened immune system invited to receive a vaccine.
Following advice from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), those eligible for a vaccine have until Saturday 29 June to book an appointment, with the last spring vaccinations on offer the following day on Sunday 30 June. Appointments can be booked via the National Booking System, the NHS App or by calling 119.
Pop-up clinics have also been set up across the Black Country, offering spring COVID-19 vaccines to those eligible on a walk-in basis. The clinics will be running until the end of June, with no appointment necessary. More dates and locations can be found on the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board’s (ICBs) website.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country ICB, said: “With people starting to finally feel the spring and see some sunshine, it’s easy to forget that, despite the winter being behind us, many people remain vulnerable to COVID-19.
“Having the spring COVID-19 vaccine helps those most risk, including the elderly and those with weakened immune systems, to maintain a high level of protection and helps prevent them from becoming seriously ill or needing treatment in hospital.
“If you are eligible and are yet to come forward for a vaccine, it’s not too late. However, there are only a few weeks left to book an appointment or visit one our pop-up centres, as the offer ends on Sunday 30 June.”
-
News -
Healthwatch Walsall held its public Independent Strategic Advisory Board Meeting on 15 May 2024 at Ryecroft Community Centre. We were delighted to be joined by Professor David Croisdale-Appleby the Chair of Healthwatch England along with Healthwatch Walsall staff, volunteers and members of the public.
The meeting was an opportunity for open discussions to take place about issues relevant to those present and it was a very interesting and informative session with a lot of interaction.
Please see photos from the event and if anyone would be interested in joining us at future public meetings the details for these will be on our website or we can be contacted on our Freephone number 0800 470 1660 and we will be pleased to let you have the information. -
News -
As we celebrate Volunteers' Week 2024, we want to take a moment to put a spotlight on and say thank you to our amazing volunteers. We are very grateful for the time that they generously give, along with their support and efforts, to help to create positive change within our communities. -
News -
Diabetes is a condition that causes a person's blood sugar level to become too high. Type 1 diabetes is a rarer form of the condition, which is caused by genetic or environmental factors, and can’t be prevented. Those with type 1 diabetes require regular insulin injections for life to keep blood glucose levels under control.
However, type 2 diabetes is often linked to being overweight or inactive, or having a family history of type 2 diabetes, and the health implications can be serious and life changing. It is the leading cause of preventable sight loss in people of working age, as well as a major contributor to kidney disease, loss of limbs, increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Some groups are at higher risk of type 2 diabetes including: men, people of South Asian or Black ethnicity, people who are overweight and people with a family history of type 2 diabetes. Black and South Asian people have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes after the age of 25, compared with those from a white background where risk increases after the age of 40.
From next week, a mobile testing van will be at a number of locations across the Black Country offering free health checks for local residents. The bus is a walk-in service so no appointment is required and will be available between 9am and 5pm (times may vary by location). People are advised to arrive no later than 4pm:
Tuesday 11 June
Black Country Family Practice, Neptune Health Park, Sedgley Rd, Tipton DY4 8PX.
Thursday 13 June
Bently Bridge Car Park, Main Block (towards Cineworld). Wolverhampton, WV1 1BP.
Friday 14 June
Tesco Car Park, Marston Road, Wolverhampton, WV2 4NJ.
Wednesday 19 June
Dudley Market Place, Dudley, DY1 1JP.
Those attending can simply have a conversation about their risk of type 2 diabetes with a clinician or have a finger prick blood test for early signs of diabetes. Blood pressure checks, body mass index (BMI) checks and cholesterol testing is also available, all of which can be early indicators of developing type 2 diabetes. Depending on the results of your tests or your risk based on your conversation, you can be signposted to appropriate sources of help or to a healthcare professional.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “It's really important for type 2 diabetes to be diagnosed as early as possible because it will get progressively worse if left untreated. Early treatment also reduces your risk of other health problems.
“Type 2 diabetes can be a very serious condition but there are lots of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing it such as achieving a healthy weight, getting more physically active and eating healthy food.
“For anyone who is looking to find out more information about type 2 diabetes or those who may be concerned they are at risk, please do pop down to the mobile testing van – it will be well worth a trip.”
The first step to preventing type 2 diabetes is finding out what your risk is. The Know Your Risk tool from Diabetes UK can also help you find out your risk. You enter information including your ethnicity, age, height, weight and waist measurement, and it will give you an assessment of your personal risk of developing type 2 diabetes and advice about next steps.
-
Report -
Read or download a copy. -
Response -
Healthwatch Walsall is delivered by Engaging Communities Solutions CIC (ECS). ECS deliver seven local Healthwatch across England.
We are carrying out a project to gather feedback across all seven local Healthwatch areas to understand what people know about Pharmacy First and their experiences of using it after it’s introduction at the beginning of 2024.
The survey is open until 1st July 2024. -
News -
Our work programme document for 2024 - 2025
Priority Project 1: (Q1 – Q2) Patient Experience of Cancer Services at Walsall Manor Hospital
Healthwatch Walsall are wanting to gain an understanding of the patient experience of those who have used cancer services in Walsall. We want to find out about whether service users were happy with the treatment and care they received. We want to find out if people were treated with compassion, felt safe, were listened to and whether they were provided with support and information needed. An overall report will be produced with recommendations included and once finalised and approved this will be shared with stakeholders and partners, together with being published on our website.
We have just launched this project, to take part in this survey Click Here -
News -
This year one of our priority projects is ‘The Patient Experience of Cancer Services in Walsall’. Our aim is to gain an understanding of the patient experience of those who have used cancer services in Walsall; generally we are trying to find out whether people in Walsall were happy with the treatment and care they received. We want to know if people were treated with compassion, if they felt safe and cared for, if they were listened to; and whether they were given the support and information they needed. Getting an understanding of this will help us to understand how services can be improved for the future. -
News -
With just one week left of this year’s spring COVID-19 vaccine programme, the NHS is urging all eligible people who haven’t yet had their top-up to come forward and get protected.
The spring COVID-19 vaccination programme started in April, with eligible people invited to come forward and book an appointment via the National Booking System or by calling 119.
Following advice from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), those eligible for a vaccine have until Saturday 29 June to book an appointment, with the last spring vaccinations on offer the following day on Sunday 30 June. Appointments can be booked via the National Booking System, the NHS App or by calling 119.
People eligible for a spring COVID-19 vaccine include:
• those aged 75 and over (you need to be 75 by Sunday 30 June 2024)
• adults and children (aged six months to 74) with certain health conditions
• care home residents.
The spring COVID-19 vaccine is also available at a range of pop-up clinics which have been set up across the Black Country. The clinics will be running until the end of June, with no appointment necessary. You can find your nearest pop-up clinic on the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) website.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country ICB, said: “As the weather gets warmer, it’s easy to forget that COVID-19 is still circulating in our communities.
“Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 and the spring booster
programme provides an opportunity for those who are at highest risk of severe illness to keep their immunity topped up.
“There is now only one week left to book an appointment either online or by calling 119 as the offer of ends on Sunday 30 June. So, I would encourage anyone eligible for a spring COVID-19 vaccine who hasn’t yet come forward to book an appointment while they can or pay a visit to one of our pop-up clinics.”
For more information on the spring COVID-19 vaccine, please visit the NHS website. -
News -
People in the Black Country are being urged to think carefully about which health service they should use during the upcoming industrial action.
Junior doctors are planning to strike for five consecutive days, starting from 7am on Thursday 27 June to 7am on Tuesday 2 July.
All health and care partners in the Black Country are working together to prepare for the industrial action, 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.
-
Report -
Download and read what we have been doing and achieved over the last year. -
News -
We have just launched our latest work project. If you have used Walsall Urology services in the last 18 months, we would like you to share your experience of using the service. To get involved please take part in a questionnaire. -
Report -
A brief outline of some of the issues and themes that patients have faced when accessing Walsall Services during April 2024.
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 May 2024.
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 June 2024.
Also, things that you can get involved with! -
News -
Engaging Communities Solutions CIC (ECS) are the providers of local Healthwatch in Bedford Borough, Halton, Sandwell, Stoke-on-Trent, Telford and Wrekin, Walsall and Warrington. We are carrying out a survey across all seven areas about people's knowledge and experiences of Pharmacy First services that were launched in 2024.
Help us find out what the public know, how they have used the service and what opinion they have of the service. -
Advice and Information -
As the end of the school term approaches, parents and carers in the Black Country are being reminded of the importance of managing their child’s asthma over the summer.
Asthma is a lung condition that affects around one in every 11 children and causes symptoms like coughing, wheezing and breathlessness.
It varies from one child to the next, but most types of asthma can be managed well by using a preventer inhaler every day to control their asthma. A reliever (blue) inhaler may be needed occasionally if symptoms flare up. -
News -
After the worldwide IT problems recently. We have been told that GP websites are now back to normal. So please visit and use these websites. -
News -
Packed full of our work, our past and forthcoming events, and useful patient and public information from our partners. -
News -
The NHS has issued important guidance as temperatures climb this week.
The Met Office, in conjunction with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), has issued a yellow heat alert as temperatures are set to rise this week, with people advised to take extra care in the hot weather.
Over the next few days temperatures across the Black Country could reach up to 27 degrees Celsius, with the yellow alert in place from today (Monday 29 July) until Friday 2 August.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “While many people will enjoy the increase in temperature, spells of hot weather can cause some people to become unwell through overheating, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Older people, those with underlying health conditions, and babies and young children are more likely to be unwell from hot weather because their bodies are less able to regulate temperature.
“To stay safe in the heat, be sure to drink plenty of cold drinks, take cool baths or showers and wear light coloured and loose clothing. Try to stay out of the sun between 11am-3pm and avoid alcohol and exercise as this will prevent dehydration.
“If someone has heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place and get them to lie down with their feet raised slightly. Ensure they drink plenty of water and cool their skin with cold water and fan them. They should start to cool down and feel better within 30 minutes.
“If you have friends, family, or neighbours who you know are more vulnerable to the effects of hot weather, it is important you check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary health advice.
“By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the nice weather and importantly, stay safe.”
If you, or others, start to feel unwell, move out of the heat immediately and drink some water to
rehydrate. If you feel dizzy, weak, or have a headache and intense thirst, visit NHS 111 online
or call 111 for more advice. -
News -
People in the Black Country are being urged to come forward for care as usual during collective action by GP services which starts today (Thursday 1 August).
GP services across England will begin collective action on Thursday 1 August for an indefinite period of time. While there may be some disruption to services, practices will remain open and patients can make requests by phone, online or by walking in as usual.
During collective action, practices are still required to be open between 8am and 6.30pm, Monday to Friday.
It is vital that patients still attend their appointments unless they are told otherwise, and practices should inform patients of any changes to services.
The nature of the action means that the impacts will vary at different GP practices, and from area to area, but could include GPs limiting the number of patient appointments per day.
NHS teams in the Black Country have worked hard to plan for disruption and to mitigate this where possible to ensure services continue to be provided for patients.
Patients should continue to use 111 for urgent medical help when their GP practice is unavailable and if it is a serious or life-threatening emergency call 999.
Dr Mona Sidhu, Medical Director of Primary Care for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “During the collective action, our priority is to continue to provide safe care for those who need it. Patients should continue to come forward for care, as GP practices will remain open.
“Choosing the right service during this time is important. It not only means you receive the treatment you require, but also helps reduce pressure on NHS services during this busy time and allows them to focus on who needs them the most.
“Your local pharmacist should also be your first port of call for any minor health conditions. 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.
“If you need urgent 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. If you
call NHS111, lines may be busier than normal so please be patient.”
Local pharmacy services and opening times in the Black Country can be found on the NHS
website.
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.
People should only call 999 if it is a medical emergency. -
News -
We are continuing our review of clinical policies in stages to reduce differences in access to healthcare services in the Black Country.
stage 1 concluded on 28 February 2024 – read a report detailing the findings from the involvement exercise and feedback.
stage 2 concluded on 19 March 2024 - read a report detailing the findings from the involvement exercise and feedback
stage 3 commenced on 22 July and will conclude on 16 August 2024
All views gathered in this public involvement exercise will help inform our final decision-making on these policies.
In July 2022, NHS Black Country ICB took over local healthcare planning from the former clinical commissioning group (CCG) serving the areas of Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, and Wolverhampton.
Since its establishment, the ICB have been reviewing its clinical policies. This includes:
Reviewing the four existing CCG policies to harmonise them into one new position for the ICB
implementing new policies to take into account national clinical guidelines and best practice.
While the majority of their clinical policies were similar, several clinical policies had some differences. To address these differences, commissioning policies for treatments listed on the webpage are being reviewed to look at how they can be made the same for the places of Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, and Wolverhampton.
Clinical experts have looked at the latest evidence and practice for all of these services, both nationally and locally, to ensure the local offer is high quality and safe.
The clinical policy review will be carried out in stages. Stage 3 of the involvement exercise is now live to collect wider views and feedback from local people and staff to inform our final decision-making. The closing date for comments is Friday 16 August 2024.
Visit the ICB website to find out more information and have your say -
News -
People in the Black Country are being reminded to order any repeat prescriptions they may need ahead of the summer bank holiday (Monday 26 August).
GP practices and pharmacies will have limited opening hours over the bank holiday weekend, making it more challenging for people to access medicines at short notice and may lead to a delay in getting your medication.
Every bank holiday, NHS 111 sees an increase in people getting in touch about repeat prescriptions. Waiting and using emergency or urgent services over the spring bank holiday puts added pressure on already busy services.
To avoid this and to ensure health is not put at any unnecessary risk, people who take regular prescription medication are being asked to submit any repeat prescriptions that are due for renewal by Friday 16 August to make sure there is enough time for them to be processed and dispensed. Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said:
“We want everyone to enjoy a safe and healthy bank holiday weekend. Running out of your usual medication can be a huge worry and have serious consequences, so it’s important to plan ahead and order any prescriptions you may need over the long weekend.
“The easiest way to order repeat prescriptions is via the NHS App or through your GP practice website. If you do not have access to GP online services, you can phone your GP practice to order prescriptions.
“Bank holiday weekends are always busy times for the NHS, so ordering and picking up a repeat prescription in advance really does help us, help you.”
Most repeat medication requests can be made online, via local practice websites or through the NHS App. People who do not use the internet can approach their practice to access their prescriptions.
If people feel unwell over the bank holiday weekend, but it’s not life threatening, they can contact NHS 111 online at 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, a local NHS walk-in centre, or a hospital accident & emergency (A&E) department.
Urgent and emergency care services will also be open as normal over the long weekend.
People should only call 999 or attend A&E services in the event of an emergency. -
News -
Healthwatch Walsall is undertaking a project about understanding people’s experiences of optometry and ophthalmology. We want to hear people’s experiences of eye care services in Walsall. We’ll use your feedback to help the NHS identify improvements.
In this survey, we will ask you about your experience of eye care services in the last two years, including individuals who have in the past or are currently waiting for any specialist eye care treatment.
-
News -
The NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) is working with GPs and health leaders across the lack Country on a programme of work to transform and improve primary care over the next five years.
Primary care includes general practice, community pharmacy, dental and optometry services. These services are often the first places people go to for help with their health.
A five-year strategy has been developed, setting out the ambition for how primary care services can be transformed. It has identified new ways of working which will help reduce pressures, make general practice more sustainable and improve the experiences of patients and staff alike. It will focus on delivering better unplanned, planned and preventive care which will lead to healthier lifestyles and improved outcomes for people across the Black Country.
People in the Black Country are being given the chance to share their views on areas in the strategy, as well as their own experiences and ideas to help transform primary care -
News -
Specialised services are those services that treat complex and slightly more rare conditions. They tend to be treated at specialist centres with experienced staff and can include neonatal services, some chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, kidney dialysis and transplants, cardiac services as well as severe asthma and HIV care.
All specialised services are priorities, but some need closer support than others.
Your views, or those of the patients you represent, would be appreciated on four groups of services we have identified for more focussed attention.
Neonatal services
Paediatric services
Cardiovascular services
Oncology services -
News -
Ahead of the summer bank holiday (Monday 26 August), people in the Black Country are being reminded how to access NHS health services.
Due to the bank holiday some services such as GP surgeries and pharmacies may be closed or working on a reduced service. Selected pharmacies will still be available for prescriptions, nonurgent medical advice, and treatment of common ailments.
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, a local NHS walk-in centre, or a hospital accident & emergency (A&E) department.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “We know that sometimes people can feel unsure about where to go for help if they become unwell over a bank holiday weekend.
“A number of pharmacies will remain open over the bank holiday weekend and should be your first port of call for any minor health concerns. Pharmacists are able to offer clinical advice and can now supply medicines for a number of conditions, without the need for a GP appointment or prescription.
“If you need urgent medical help over the long weekend, contact NHS 111 in the first instance and they will direct you to the most appropriate service for advice or treatment. -
News -
Following advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), from 1 September 2024 the NHS will invite everyone aged 75 to 79 to come forward for a free vaccine to protect them from RSV.
Pregnant women are also being offered the vaccine from 28 weeks into their pregnancy to help protect their babies from RSV for the first few months after they’re born.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “RSV is a major cause of respiratory illness and can be particularly dangerous for infants and the elderly. It can occur all year round, but cases peak each winter leaving thousands of vulnerable people needing hospital care.
“The RSV vaccine is safe and effective and is the best way to protect yourself against infections caused by RSV. This is a new vaccination programme that will protect thousands of people from serious illness each winter, keeping more people out of hospital and from needing to see a GP.
“I would encourage everyone who receives an invite to come forward and get vaccinated as soon as possible.”
Older adults will be offered the RSV vaccination by their GP practice. Pregnant women over 28 weeks will be offered the vaccine by the maternity service they are receiving antenatal care from. -
Report -
Read or download a copy. -
News -
The AGM is being held on Thursday 19 September, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, and will be hosted online using Microsoft Teams.
The meeting is open to all members of the public and provides an opportunity to learn more about the organisation and the work that has been carried out in the last 12 months.
Mark Axcell, Chief Executive Officer for the NHS Black Country ICB, said: “Our AGM is an opportunity for us to look back on the ICBs work over the last 12 months and review our achievements and challenges, whilst also reflecting on the ever-changing challenges facing the NHS as we look to the future.
“We want the Black Country community to be as involved as possible in these conversations and we extend a warm welcome to local people to join us and take part in this year’s meeting.
“Public questions are an important part of our meetings and provide an opportunity for people to share what matters most to them about the local NHS. So, if you have a question, please do submit it in advance and we can respond."
For those interested in attending, please reserve your spot online here. A virtual meeting link will be sent to you via the email you registered your attendance with on Wednesday 18 September. If you haven’t received a meeting link by 5pm on this date, please email comms.blackcountry@nhs.net.
Members of the public who would like to send in a question should email bcicb.gb@nhs.net by 5pm on Monday 16 September.
Alternatively, if you would prefer to contact us by telephone to confirm your attendance or ask any questions, please contact our Time2Talk team on 0300 0120 281 and select option 1. -
News -
It is thought that around 6 million people in the UK have high blood pressure and are not aware of it. High blood pressure is the main cause of strokes and heart attacks in the UK but as it often has no symptoms it goes undetected. Know Your Numbers week aims to reduce that by encouraging people to get a blood pressure check and therefore, taking the first steps to reducing their risk of a stroke or a heart attack.
Knowing Your Numbers means that you can start making lifestyle changes or get medication to help bring your blood pressure down.
Home monitoring is an easy way of checking your blood pressure. You can buy affordable blood pressure monitors from your local pharmacy and check your numbers without having to take have a GP appointment. The NHS have the guide to help you understand your blood pressure reading. Check your blood pressure reading - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
You have the power to successfully manage your blood pressure – but only if you know your numbers. Get yours measured before damage is done. -
Report -
Read or download a copy. -
Report -
A brief outline of some of the issues and themes patients have faced when accessing Walsall Services during June 2024.
Also, things that you can get involved with! -
Report -
A brief outline of some of the issues and themes patients have faced when accessing Walsall Services during June 2024.
Also, things that you can get involved with! -
Report -
A brief outline of some of the issues and themes patients have faced when accessing Walsall Services during June 2024.
Also, things that you can get involved with! -
Report -
Read or download a copy. -
Advice and Information -
Eligible people in the Black Country are being invited to come forward for a flu and COVID19 vaccine from this week.
The vaccination programmes are set to start from Thursday 3 October 2024, with appointments
available to book now.
Similar to last year, those eligible for a COVID-19 and flu vaccine include:
• all adults aged 65 years and over
• people who live in a care home for older adults
• people aged 6 months to 64 years with health conditions that make them more vulnerable
• frontline health and social care staff, including in care homes for older adults
• pregnant women.
The flu vaccine is also available to children aged 2 to 3 years, school-aged children (Reception to Year 11) and children with certain long-term health conditions.
Eligible people can book an appointment via the NHS website, on the NHS App or by calling 119. -
Advice and Information -
Are you caring for someone living with dementia in Walsall?
We can provide information and advice in a friendly, group setting:
An opportunity for carers to regularly meet and share experiences
Find out about local and national initiatives
Group activities -
News -
As Diwali approaches, NHS leaders in the Black Country are encouraging local people to protect themselves and their loved ones by getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an important five-day celebration observed by millions of people worldwide, with this year’s festivities taking place from Wednesday 30 October to Saturday 2 November 2024.
With winter illnesses like flu and COVID-19 circulating, vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent serious illness, especially for those with long-term health conditions. By getting vaccinated, individuals can help protect not only themselves but also vulnerable members of their community.
It’s important to note that vaccines take up to two weeks to offer full protection. Therefore, getting vaccinated soon will help reduce the risk of illness during the Diwali period, allowing families to celebrate with peace of mind.
Similar to last year, those eligible for the COVID-19 and flu vaccines include:
all adults aged 65 years and over
residents of care homes for older adults
people aged 6 months to 64 years with underlying health conditions
frontline health and social care workers
pregnant women.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “Diwali is an exciting time for friends and family to come together and celebrate, including my own. However, it also coincides with the rise of flu and COVID-19 cases as we head into winter.
“By getting vaccinated before the festivities, you can protect not only your own health but also the health of your loved ones. I strongly encourage members of the Hindu, Jain, and Sikh communities to prioritise their health and get vaccinated to stay 'winter strong.'
“I urge eligible adults to receive their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, and to make sure children are also protected. Vaccines are safe, effective, and play a key role in preventing serious illness, particularly for those with long-term health conditions.
“Each winter, thousands of children and adults require hospital treatment for illnesses that can be prevented with vaccination. Let’s take this simple step to protect ourselves and our families. Wishing everyone celebrating a happy, healthy, and safe Diwali!"
The NHS has created a video reminding people of the importance of getting protected ahead of Diwali which you can watch on YouTube here.
Eligible people can book an appointment via the NHS website, on the NHS App or by calling 119. -
News -
Ameena Westwood, 53, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017, but earlier this year received the devastating news that the cancer had returned. She now wants everyone to know how to spot the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and get help early.
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK. The main signs and symptoms of breast cancer in women often include:
• a lump or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit
• a change in the skin of your breast, such as dimpling, or redness (which may be harder
to see on black or brown skin)
• a change in size or shape of one or both breasts
• nipple discharge (if you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding) which may have blood in it
• a change in the shape or look of your nipple, such as turning inwards or a rash on it
• pain in your breast or armpit which does not go away.
Ameena, who lives in Smethwick, first noticed a lump in her breast in 2017, just a year after her mom was diagnosed with lobular breast cancer, the second most common type of breast cancer. Ameena said: “I had just started a new job as Community Development Manager at the Yemeni Community Association (YCA) in Sandwell and I remember feeling really excited about the future. I was watching tv one evening and randomly felt a lump in my breast. I was really surprised as I hadn’t noticed it before, but it really stuck out. As my mom had been diagnosed with breast cancer less than 12 months before, I was aware of the signs and symptoms, but I thought perhaps it was just down to my hormones and it might go away on its own.
“It really played on my mind, and I spoke to my brother Ragih about it, and he told me to call my GP and just get it checked out. I booked a GP appointment, and when the doctor examined me, she didn’t even need to ask me to lie down or lift my arm up as the lump was visible by just looking at my chest. I was referred to City Hospital for further tests and within 10 days had my appointment at the breast clinic.
“I’ve always had lots of lumps in my boobs, and have had several cysts before, so felt blasé about the appointment as I assumed it would be the same type of thing. At the clinic, I had a mammogram and ultrasound, and the doctor confirmed I did have a cyst, however there was something behind it that they didn’t like the look of. I had the cyst drained and they took biopsies of the suspicious lump. The results of my biopsy came back, and it was confirmed I had lobular breast cancer, the same as my mom, which was a huge shock.”
Despite undergoing a mastectomy and radiotherapy, Ameena returned to work within a month, determined not to let her community down. It was also while attending her own cancer appointments with her mom, she realised the importance of the conversations that took place in waiting rooms between patients and their families and, with the support of Macmillan, set up the YCA Let’s Talk Hope Cancer support group for people in Sandwell.
Ameena continued: “After my cancer treatment I was given the all-clear and I threw myself into work and the cancer support group. But in 2018, we received the terrible news that my father had been diagnosed with stomach cancer and he sadly passed away a year later in 2019. He had actually taken part in a genomic trial before he died, and in 2022 we were contacted by the trial to confirm that he was a carrier of the BRCA2 gene. Out of his six kids, four of us have tested positive for the gene which means a heightened risk of cancer. My two sisters, who are twins, have both been through breast cancer and my daughter has also recently had a preventative mastectomy after testing positive for the BRCA2 gene.
“In December last year I started getting a really bad cough and shortness of breath when I walked up the stairs. Unfortunately, in March I had the heartbreaking news that my cancer had returned, and I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. The cancer has now spread to my spine, pelvis, ribs and sternum. I’m currently having targeted cancer treatment every day in the form of tablets, and I see my oncologist at the hospital once a month.
“I’m half Yemeni, and because of my own personal journey with cancer and my role with the YCA, I do a lot of work within the community to raise awareness of cancer, which is a topic that isn’t often spoken about. I think it’s really important that people advocate for themselves – you know your own body and you know if something doesn’t feel right, so you must seek help if you’re worried. That’s why it’s important that to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, check your breasts regularly and make sure you go to your screening appointments when you receive an invite.
“I’ve always said, I’m not particularly religious, but god picked me for this journey because he knows I’m going to shout it from the rooftops and raise as much awareness as I can.”
The NHS Breast Screening Programme invites all women from the age of 50 to 70 registered with a GP for screening every 3 years. You'll automatically get your first invite for breast screening between the ages of 50 and 53. Then you'll be invited every 3 years until you turn 71.
Dr Mona Sidhu, Medical Director of Primary Care for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “It’s really important to get to know how your breasts look and feel, and what’s normal for you.
“If you notice any unusual change in your breasts, please book an appointment to see your GP as soon as possible. The chances are that it won’t be cancer, but if it is, then catching it early means it will be more treatable.
“I’d also encourage eligible women to attend their breast screening appointments when invited. Screening can help detect cancer before you can feel or see any changes in your breast yourself, and early diagnosis can make all the difference.” -
News -
Parents and carers in the Black Country are being encouraged to get their children vaccinated against flu this winter.
The flu vaccination provides vital protection to prevent children from developing serious illnesses and ending up in hospital during the busy winter months.
Children eligible for a flu vaccine include:
• all children aged two or three years on 31 August 2024
• 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 six months to less than 18 years.
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. School children can get the flu vaccine at school through their school’s vaccination programme.
School aged children, from Reception to Year 11, who haven’t been able to get their flu vaccine at school, can also get their flu vaccine at catch-up clinics that are being hosted across the Black Country. There are a number of clinics being hosted during October half term and throughout November. Please visit the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) website for more information.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country ICB, said: “Children can catch
and spread flu easily, particularly in nursery and school settings.
“The flu vaccine is safe and effective, and most children will receive the vaccine through a nasal spray into each nostril. It is quick and painless and is the best available protection for children against flu. It also helps protect others who are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu, such as babies, anyone who's pregnant and older people.
“With flu season nearly here, now is the time to schedule your child’s vaccination to ensure they are protected as soon as possible. If your child has missed out on their vaccination in school, or you'd rather take them to a clinic, please book an appointment at one of the catch-up clinics being held in the Black Country over the coming weeks.”
Children who cannot have pork gelatine in medical products will be offered an injection instead of the nasal vaccine. -
News -
Packed full of updates, report updates and information from our partners about your health and social care services. -
Advice and Information -
Edward’s Trust is a specialist bereavement charity based in Birmingham, providing counselling and holistic support to families in
the West Midlands.
-
News -
You and your family can get support for bereavement in the Black Country. Edward’s Trust is a specialist bereavement charity based in Birmingham, providing counselling and holistic support to families in the West Midlands. -
News -
Bereavement Support in the Black Country. 37 Calthorpe Road Edgbaston, B15 1TS.
Telephone: 0121 454 1705
Registered Charity Number 1105370 website: www.edwardstrust.org.uk
Edward’s Trust is a specialist bereavement charity based in Birmingham, providing counseling and holistic support to families in the West Midlands.
Download the poster for full information.