News and reports

The British Medical Association has announced today that GPs will start capping appointments in an immediate work-to-rule action following a dispute over funding levels.

Thurrock Carers Service are seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Carers' Facilitator with Education and Employment responsibilities. Join the team on a part-time basis with a competitive salary and opportunities for career growth. Apply by 17th August 2024. For more details, contact Kelly Bacon on 01375 389864

Healthwatch Thurrock aim to ensure that service users, carers and professionals voices are fed into the dementia strategy to help shape the future.

Last week Healthwatch Thurrock invited local carers and their loved one to join us for lunch and a focus group session to discuss their support locally.

A new website is launching in mid and south Essex to provide residents and clinicians with the latest information on palliative and end of life care.

The new Pharmacy First scheme enables your local pharmacy to treat some common conditions with prescription-only medicines, without you visiting your GP. Find out everything you need to know.

Healthwatch Thurrock held an event recently for refugees and asylum seekers around their access to primary care.

Norovirus cases are currently higher than normal across mid and south Essex, particularly affecting those over the age of 65.
Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. If you catch norovirus, it’s important to rest and have plenty of fluids. You should stay at home until two days after your symptoms stop and wash your hands to prevent the spread of infection.

For more information please visit nhs.uk/norovirus

To mark Children’s Mental Health Week (5th – 11th February) Healthwatch Thurrock ran a drawing challenge asking children of Thurrock to draw something that makes them happy. We promised to share the entries throughout #ChildrensMentalHealthWeek.

They're looking for volunteers aged 11 and over to help them to create and watch virtual reality videos. Participants must also be autistic or have mild/moderate learning disabilities.

The study will involve participants attending co-production sessions to tell them what scenarios they would like to see, followed by a period of time spent watching the videos with virtual reality headsets, and then a feedback session at the end of the project as well. The project will be taking place over the entirety of 2024.

MSE ICS are undertaking a number of projects to improve women’s services and want to get the views of women. This survey covers everything from contraception to the menopause and everything in-between.

Thurrock Stroke Project is a support service for Thurrock residents who have suffered a stroke. It provides the opportunity for stroke survivors and their carers to meet together and chat over a cup of tea.
They currently meet every Monday between 2-4pm at the United Reform Church, 31 Bradleigh Avenue. There is a £5 fee for yearly membership and a £3 a week cost to attend. They are an affiliated member of the Stroke Association.