CCG Insight - NHS Thurrock CCG
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Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 1
CCG Insight
The latest news from NHS Thurrock CCG Issue 18: Summer 2020
The NHS turns 72 on 05 July!
Find out more on page 5.
Read about some of the changes Summer's here! get some
locally to keep people safe advice on staying well during
during the COVID-19 pandemic. the summer months.
Pages 6 Page 8
Page 2 CCG Insight Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 3
Hundreds of volunteers make a difference
Welcome! in mid and south Essex
A big ‘thank you’ to all those amazing volunteers that put themselves forward to help
Dr Anil Kallil, Chair of NHS Thurrock CCG, looks back over
the unprecedented few months in the NHS and how the their communities and neighbours during the pandemic.
NHS has had to adapt to continue to care for Thurrock.
A s Dr Anil Kallil wrote, the districts within mid
and south Essex have a wealth of voluntary
organisations and dedicated volunteers who support
Jennifer said: “The work took me right back to my
nursing days from 20 years ago. I met some amazing
people and was treated as one of them from the very
their local communities. Since the start of the first day. The public dropped off food and snacks as
H ello. I’m Dr Anil Kallil, a local GP and also Chair
of NHS Thurrock CCG. With Coronavirus in the
news headlines every day, we have all had to adapt
us learn, it is important that we capture information
about how new services are being received as the
local NHS continues to adapt, respond and reshape
COVID-19 pandemic there has been an even greater
sense of pride in volunteering, with hundreds of
well as the odd treat – I found that so lovely.”
people lending an extra hand. Volunteering had such a positive impact for Jennifer
how we live, work or study. to current challenges. that she is now considering a change in career. She
The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on said: “I was disappointed when my volunteering came
Health and social care services have had to change We have recently undertaken a survey to better
everyone, young and old, across the entire world. to an end as I enjoyed it … so much so, in fact, that
and adapt how they work quickly and effectively understand how we can continue to support local
Here in Essex, volunteers have shown that, when I’ve made the decision to change jobs. Who knows,
to respond to the pandemic. The way people have people and communities during the coronavirus
faced with the challenge of a national crisis, people I may even end up working back at Brentwood
accessed local health and care services has also pandemic and beyond. The results of this survey will
come together and can achieve amazing things. Community Hospital!”
changed. be analysed and, alongside insight from our local
Healthwatch, we will gather the main themes and Changes have been made in community hospitals The list of organisations and partners working with us
In the past few months GP practices across mid actions that will inform our next steps. A report will across mid and south Essex so more patients can be at this challenging time is huge. St John’s Ambulance,
and south Essex have carried out more than 25,000 be available on the CCG’s website in due course. cared for. Volunteers from all walks of life have been Essex Fire and Rescue, the Territorial Army, the
video consultations. Local hospitals have begun to
helping get things ready – and whether they have military veterans’ disaster response charity, Team
offer virtual consultations with patients where safe Finally, I would like to say a big thank you to the
been moving equipment, cleaning or setting things Rubicon, and the CVS groups (Council for Voluntary
and appropriate to do so. Digital tools have also many volunteers who have been supporting local
up, they have all played an important part. Service) in mid and south Essex are just some of
helped identify and support the most vulnerable people through this difficult time, and who continue
these.
people in our community. to do so. When faced with a crisis like coronavirus, it For some people, volunteering is a regular part of
is really incredible to see people come together and their lives, but others have got involved for the first If you’d like to find out more about volunteering in
New smartphone tools like the NHS App help people make such a difference. time as a result of the impact of COVID-19. your area, you can start by visiting the National
to order repeat prescriptions from their own home.
Council for Voluntary Organisations website to find a
Other new apps are also now available to help We appreciate your ongoing support in tackling Jennifer usually works as an Ofsted registered volunteering opportunity near you.
support those with particular conditions such as coronavirus so much. Stay safe! childminder, but her business was seriously affected
diabetes (MyType1Diabetes and DigiBete), which by the pandemic, so she took St John’s Ambulance
means many people can get support in different Dr Anil Kallil COVID-19 Care Module training in the hopes she
ways. Thurrock GP and Chair NHS Thurrock CCG could help. Soon after, she was asked to volunteer at
Brentwood Community Hospital.
People visit their GPs for a range of different
reasons. Sometimes issues that affect a person’s
health may be caused by non-medical matters such
as loneliness, worry, unemployment or debt. That's
where the role of the a 'Social Prescriber or 'Link
Worker' in GP surgeries can help. Social prescribers CCG Insight
Thank you from Mike Thorne
give people confidence to seek appropriate support is just one of the
in the community and make positive changes for many ways that you can Professor Mike Thorne is Independent Chair range of valuable skills have come together to
their wellbeing. keep informed about our of the Mid and South Essex Health and Care support the NHS, local authorities and providers
work. Connect with us through
It is essential that we learn from the times we are Partnership. He asked us to pass on his sincere as we deal with coronavirus.
Facebook,Twitter and our
living in and embed any positive changes in how website for regular updates. You thanks to all of the amazing volunteers on behalf
of everyone working in the NHS in Essex. “It’s so humbling to see the speed with which
local residents get the best possible care and can also share any feedback on volunteers have stepped in to help us make some
support to lead fulfilling, independent lives. To help Insight by emailing: Prof Thorne writes: “Volunteers are often the major changes to health and care services in the
thurrock.ccg@nhs.net with
‘CCG Insight feedback’ in unsung heroes in our communities, and we community. Their commitment and willingness
the subject heading. want to make a special effort to say thank you. to help, often with something they’ve never done
Volunteers from all kinds of backgrounds with a before, has been just brilliant!”
Page 4 CCG Insight Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 5
The NHS at 72: a time to remember,
reflect and say ‘thank you’
On Sunday 05 July, it will be 72 years since the NHS started work.
O ver the last few months, the NHS has been through
perhaps its greatest test so far. We will continue
to deal with the many challenges brought about by the Let us know who is
COVID-19 pandemic for the foreseeable future. getting your thanks
This year’s anniversary will be one of remembrance and
thanks. We want to remember those who have died during Don’t forget to share your ‘thank-yous’ and
the pandemic and say thank you to all the people and images with your local NHS on our social
organisations who have supported us during these difficult media channels. Find us on Twitter and
times. Facebook at @ThurrockCCG
In the run-up to 05 July, you can say a personal thank Some other local NHS organisations to look
you to someone who has been a hero for you during out for on Twitter and Facebook include:
the pandemic with the template opposite or one you can • NHS Mid and South Essex Health and
download from the Together Coalition website. Colour it Care Partnership (T: @MSEEssex_
in, add the name of someone you’d like to thank – nurses HCP F: @MidSouthEssexHCP)
and doctors, posties and delivery people, or maybe your
mum, dad or a neighbour – and display it in your window. • NHS Basildon and Brentwood
CCG (T: @BB_CCG F: @
Then, on the evening before the NHS anniversary BasildonBrentwoodCCG)
(Saturday 04 July) we are encouraging people to put a light
in their window too – perhaps an LED candle, lamp or a • NHS Castle Point and Rochford CCG
torch. All the lit windows will commemorate the people we (T: @CPRCCG F: @nhscprccg)
have lost. (If you want to use a candle, please don’t leave it
unattended.) • NHS Mid Essex CCG (T: @
MidEssexCCG F: @CCGMidEssex)
National and local landmarks will also be lit up in blue as
part of our collective nationwide memorial. • NHS Southend CCG T: @
SouthendCCG F: @southendccg)
The following day (Sunday 05 July) and the anniversary of
our NHS, let’s say thank you together: Hospitals:
• 5pm: Join a one-off clap for carers – the biggest yet, • Basildon and Thurrock University
because this time it is to say thank you to everybody. Hospitals NHS (T&F: @BasildonHosp)
• 5.05pm: Raise a glass, mug or cuppa to thank each • Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS
other – our friends, family and neighbours – for (T&F: @broomfieldnhs)
looking out for us, helping the vulnerable, or simply • Southend University Hospitals NHS
doing the right thing and staying at home. (T&F: @SouthendNHS)
• Afterwards: Stay outside for a socially distanced • Please note, the hospitals are merging
chat with your neighbours, or reach out to someone their social media accounts. Check
who is lonely, isolated or stuck in another household out @MSEHospitals on Twitter and
to let them know they are appreciated. Facebook.
Page 6 CCG Insight Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 7
Responding to Coronavirus Mental health services in mid and south
Essex have remained available, though there
have been fewer face-to-face appointments
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a newly
Find out a little more about the impact of coronavirus locally and how the NHS in to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. discovered coronavirus strain that first emerged in
The people with the most urgent and severe
mid and south Essex has responded. mental health needs are being prioritised
China late last year. Several coronaviruses are known
to cause respiratory infections in humans, ranging
while direct access to online support has
W e have all found ourselves in unprecedented Digital consultation in general practice isn’t new, but from the common cold to more severe diseases.
remained available to everyone.
times due to the impact of COVID-19 its use had been fairly limited prior to COVID-19.
The most important symptoms of coronavirus
(coronavirus). It is perhaps the greatest challenge Now every GP surgery in mid and south Essex is Vital support for all these efforts has come (COVID-19) are recent onset of:
the health service has faced in its 72-year history. offering remote consultation, with more than 25,000 from our local communities – from you, your
appointments already held this way. Surgeries are friends and neighbours. Volunteers have • A new continuous cough
Locally the NHS has well-rehearsed procedures in also working together in the communities they serve come forward to deliver medicines and food • A high temperature
place to respond to major incidents. We have been to provide care for people suspected of having the to people who are most vulnerable to the
using our full emergency preparedness plans as part • A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.
virus at a single clinic away from others. effects of COVID-19. They have worked
of the greater Essex Resilience Forum alongside
side by side with other partners such as The severity and duration of symptoms for people
local government, police and fire services from the Meanwhile, our hospitals have reorganised Essex Police, Essex Fire and Rescue and who have COVID-19 can vary. Most people who
start. outpatient services and planned surgery, again to the British Army to help rapidly redesign our get infected have mild symptoms, and in general
offer telephone or video consultations where needed buildings to accept more patients.
This has seen our hospitals, GPs, community symptoms are expected largely to disappear within 7
and free up capacity to care for COVID-19 patients.
services, local authorities, voluntary sector, charities days of first experiencing them.
Each of the three main sites run by our local hospital As our response to the coronavirus pandemic
and the independent sector all united. With great trust – Basildon, Broomfield and Southend – has continues, we are now starting to see the Most people who get COVID-19 will not need to go
speed they have worked together to change and re- substantially increased its intensive care capacity. number of hospital admissions come down. into hospital. Others may need monitoring as an
align how we provide services to meet our residents’ This included buying additional ventilators to care So, we have begun to reschedule both inpatient and a small number will need treatment in
immediate needs during this pandemic. for the most seriously ill patients and retraining staff inpatient planned surgery and postponed intensive care.
The scale and depth of the steps taken are to deliver intensive care. outpatient appointments within the three
exceptional. The NHS has put a wide range of main hospitals at Southend, Basildon and
Recently-retired clinical staff have been invited to Broomfield. These will be rescheduled and
measures in place to ensure people stay as safe as return to work and the NHS has enlisted medical
possible while we maintain essential health services and nursing students to work in frontline care.
prioritised according to clinical need and Coronavirus in mid and south
for those who continue to need them outside of length of wait.
COVID-19 care.
Colleagues from local private hospitals and facilities
have been redeployed to work among NHS teams. For the moment, we continue to ask that
Essex – facts and figure
Working alongside local authorities to identify and people go to their GP surgery or hospital for An average of 136 COVID-19 patients a day have
And some private hospitals have opened up planned care only when really necessary.
protect our most vulnerable residents through their facilities to NHS patients so the most urgent been in our local hospital beds between 22 March
Operation Shield is something that will leave a People in need of medical help should 2020 and 14 June 2020. The highest daily number
treatments such as cancer surgery can still take continue to contact their surgery, use the
positive legacy for our communities. It has helped place. This is helping to keep those at greatest risk was 276. Recently the numbers have been much
show how we can work together in the future to online service at 111.nhs.uk or call 111. lower with the most recent data available (from mid
away from the main hospital sites where COVID-19
support our residents’ needs across health and patients are being treated. June) showing 62 patients with coronavirus.
GP surgeries and the 111 service will initially
social care.
assess patients over the phone or online to The number of confirmed COVID-19 patients
Working as a team, local NHS community services make sure they are cared for by the right
One of the first things to happen in response to the set up new wards and beds at our community occupying critical care beds averaged 34 over the
outbreak was our GP practices’ speedy adoption person, in the right place for their illness. same March-June period and peaked at 78 on 20
hospitals in Brentwood and Braintree in just a few Where possible, appointments will continue
of digital consultations, from telephone triage and days. These extra beds are for patients requiring April. The last 10 days before writing saw the average
use of email to video consultations. These have to be offered using remote services such as number of COVID-19 patients in critical care fall to 9.
‘step-down’ and rehabilitation bed care after a stay a video or phone consultation.
meant people do not have to go to their GP surgery in one of the three acute hospitals. The additional
in person, and clinical staff can work remotely if capacity is vital in helping hospitals to free up the
needed. space to treat the most ill patients.
Mental health
More online, GP practices working services continue
telephone and video Local hospitals have
together to provide to provide
consultations at increased intensive
care for suspected support, and extra
GP practices and care capacity to care
virus cases at a single services have
Hospitals for COVID-19 patients
clinic. been introduced.
Page 8 CCG Insight Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 9
Tracing the Virus What to do if you test positive for COVID-19
NHS Test and Trace aims to keep on top of the virus by identifying everyone who If you have been identified as having symptoms Each of you should follow the
of the COVID-19 infection, you need to go home Government's isolation guidance.
comes in contact with someone who has caught the virus. straight away and self-isolate for 7 days from when
you first showed symptoms. If your symptoms get worse, visit
T he NHS test and trace service aims to help control How do I ask for a test? the NHS 111 online coronavirus
the coronavirus rate of reproduction (or ‘R’ rate), Anyone you share a home with will need to self- service or call 111.
reduce the risk of infection and save lives. We all have You can ask for a coronavirus test online. The service isolate for 14 days from the day you showed
will ask you: symptoms. If anyone else in the household starts Call 999 if you feel very unwell or
an important role to play in helping to limit the spread
displaying symptoms, they also need to stay think there's something seriously
of the virus across Essex and beyond.
• How you want to get the test – you may be able at home for 7 days from when the symptoms wrong.
The NHS test and trace service aims to: to choose between driving to a regional testing appeared, regardless of how far into the original
site or getting a home test kit 14-day isolation period they are.
• Ensure that anyone who shows symptoms that
• For details such as your name, mobile phone
may mean they have COVID-19 can quickly get There is a risk that other members of your
number and address.
a test for the virus household or others that you have been in close
• Help trace recent close contacts of anyone who contact with over the previous 2 weeks have been
tests positive for coronavirus exposed to the virus, but it is possible that they
How NHS Test and Trace have not.
• If necessary, tell people who have been in
contact with someone carrying COVID-19 that
will contact you
they must self-isolate at home to reduce the You will receive an email, text message or phone call.
Update from our local hospital trust
virus’s spread Text messages will come from “NHS Tracing” and
Here are some links to information about testing for calls will come from 0300 0135000.
coronavirus and what to do if you’re contacted by the
NHS Test and Trace service. You'll be asked to sign in to the NHS Test and Trace
T
contact tracing website at he three trusts in mid and south Essex have COVID-19
• Ask for a test to check if you have coronavirus contact-tracing.phe.gov.uk (you should be sure you merged into a new oranisation. The newly formed
• What your test result means are logging into the right site and never give any The strength of the new organisation has been
organisation is now called Mid and South Essex NHS
financial information to the service). immediately tested with the coronavirus pandemic. It
• NHS Test and Trace: if you’re contacted after Foundation Trust or MSEFT for short. It is made up
has been a very challenging time and staff have worked
testing positive If you cannot use the contact tracing website, NHS of the three acute sites: Broomfield, Basildon and
above and beyond to care for all patients. Many frontline
• NHS Test and Trace: if you’ve been in contact Test and Trace will phone you. Southend hospitals, plus community hospital sites such
medical staff have undergone refresher training so they
as Braintree, Brentwood and Maldon.
with a person who has coronavirus can support critical care clinicians in caring for very ill
MSEFT is determined to provide the best health COVID-19 patients.
services for its local population.
As the trust continues to adapt and use new technology-
driven approaches to care for patients remotely, it’s
Improved services and care clear that the pandemic has played a key role in
With about 15,000 staff, the hospitals can now do accelerating changes to the way healthcare reaches
more and go further in delivering excellent care to patients.
local communities across mid and south Essex. The
As routine outpatient appointments restart, many of
new, larger trust size will bring more opportunities for
the telephone and virtual consultations that have been
development, research, networking and innovation, plus
taking place in order to reduce footfall to the hospitals
more specialist care region-wide.
will stay in place. Tom Abell, who is Deputy Chief
Executive at MSEFT, said: “It’s hard to believe we are
Staff moving into the reset phase and restarting some of the
The MSEFT team know that happy staff mean better services that were paused.
care for patients. So, the trust is also focused on
“COVID-19 has been tough, but we’ve also discovered
ensuring its premises offer vibrant base from where
ways to create more efficient and effective services
hospital staff can develop and build their careers. They
using digital technology. The merger of our three
will have plenty of opportunities to work across the
hospitals has demonstrated that we are stronger
different sites and share best practice, building new
together.
friendships in the process.
“We are also incredibly grateful for all the support
we have had from local businesses and our local
community. The warmth, kindness and generosity we
have received has really helped to keep us all going.”
Page 10 CCG Insight Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 11
Mental health – focused on meeting your needs
Keeping active while at home
Mental health services are likely to become even more important as people struggle
with the impact of coronavirus. We look at some of the local services that can help. Essex initiative inspires people to keep active from the comfort of the living
room, garden and other improvised home gyms.
N ow more than ever, it’s important to reflect on our
feelings and mental wellbeing. The past three
Mental Health Crisis? Help Is On Hand U ndoubtedly our lives have changed in the past few
months, but we still need to think about physical
activity.
months have seen most people’s worlds turned upside A crisis mental health phone line has launched
down as they cope with the coronavirus pandemic. across Essex. The 24-hour service run by EPUT As we adjust to new ways of living and people spend
offers immediate and specialist support to adults more time at home, it could have a significantly
Unusual events like this can have a big impact on our experiencing mental health crisis. negative impact on the county’s physical activity
mental health. But help is on hand. Even through the levels.
pandemic peak, local services to support your mental Anyone in need can dial 111 at any time and select
health continued to be available. Most are being the option for mental health crisis (option 2). Callers Keeping physically active and well is being
provided in an online or telephone format at present, will be connected to trained staff at EPUT who can championed at the highest possible level, with the You will also find on this page downloadable booklets
to meet social distancing guidelines. But if someone provide timely and appropriate support and advice. Prime Minister and Chief Medical Officer for England you can share with anyone you know who can’t
needs face to face support, it can be arranged. stating jointly: “Right now, exercise is one of the access online resources.
The service is free from UK landlines and mobiles, best things you can do to help fight diseases like the
There are a range of ways to support you and your The Keep Essex Active YouTube channel also
and aimed at people aged 18 and over so they can coronavirus and other health conditions.”
family’s mental health, whether that’s responding to features free workouts delivered throughout the day
access support when they need it most. by top Essex instructors.
a crisis or working on preventing mental health from A high proportion of Thurrock residents are inactive,
becoming an emergency. Here are some of the ways meaning they do less than 30 minutes of physical
With an easy colour-coded timetable released each
you can get help. activity each week. Experts recommend we should
Children’s mental health and wellbeing ideally be aiming for to 150 minutes (two and a half
Sunday, you will be able to see what activities are
going on to suit your needs; from tai chi and yoga to
hours) a week of moderate physical exercise, at least
For many children this is a worrying and unsettling HIIT and an “abs blaster” workout. All activities are
Increasing Access to Psychological as energetic as walking.
time, with routines and school turned upside down, saved to the channel to create a library of sessions for
Therapy (IAPT) it’s natural that some of our younger people need Introducing regular physical activity as part of our everyone to continue to enjoy.
some extra support. Children’s mental health everyday lives will help us to support and maintain
There are a range of services on offer across mid For additional information, guidance and ideas please
services are provided by the Emotional Wellbeing our wellbeing and offer us immediate and long-
and south Essex. IAPT services provide therapy to visit www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise which contains
and Mental Health Service (EWMHS). term health benefits. In Essex, a physical activity
support mental health and wellbeing, including dealing gentle exercises to adopt during the day whilst at
partnership called Active Essex wants to continue to
with anxiety, depression or long-term health issues A child or young person can contact the service home.
help local communities become more resilient through
that affect your everyday life. They do this through directly. Any parent/guardian or professional such as being active. Regular physical activity is one of the most important
community or home-based remote therapies. a teacher, school nurse or GP can get in touch on the things you can do for your health and we hope that
behalf of the young person Active Essex’s Active at Home webpage holds tips
In Thurrock this service is provides by Inclusion together we can all keep Thurrock and the whole of
and guidance for your mental wellbeing, gentle
Thurrock for anyone aged over 18. For other areas in Essex active.
Contact details: inclusive exercise videos and ideas to keep the whole
mid and south Essex, please see your CCG’s website. family engaged in moving more. Feel free to take a In Thurrock, the Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service
Inclusion Thurrock over 18s
• In-hours mental health 0300 300 1600 (Essex look and join in! can offer all sorts of support for those trying to get
SPA) more healthy.
• Telephone: 01375 898680
• Out of Hours Mental Health 0300 555 1000
• Website: inclusionthurrock.org/online-referral/ (Mental Health Direct Line)
• Opening hours: Monday–Friday 8.30am–8pm;
• Visit: www.nelft.nhs.uk/services-ewmhs to find
Saturdays 9am–1pm out about online apps like Kooth, Big White
Wall and MiLife.
If you work in a health or care service
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
(EPUT) is offering a new service for people working
in Essex-based health and social care. If you need
support with managing stress and emotional difficulties
in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, phone 01375
898837 or email epunft.staffpsychsupport@nhs.net.
The service is available seven days per week, 8am–
8pm.
Page 12 CCG Insight Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 13
Summer health – our guide to Keep Hydrated
staying safe when the heat arrives Everyone is at risk of dehydration in hot
temperatures which is why it’s always important
to keep hydrated, but during hot weather it’s
a similar effect – so stay clear of all these.
For those reluctant to drink water, why not try
even more important to drink plenty of fluids like homemade ice lollies made with watered-down
The summer is great for getting more active. Some simple tips will help you get water – especially for the elderly or if fruit juice or squash, or adding fruits such as
lemons and limes to your bottled water?
the most out of the warmth while keeping healthy. you have a health condition such as
diabetes. Although you may not feel particularly hungry
Some drinks can increase in the heat, don’t stop eating. Perhaps try to
dehydration, including those have smaller, more frequent light meals and
containing alcohol or caffeine incorporate lots of fruits and salad which are full
such as tea, coffee and cola of water and will help hydrate you.
drinks. Drinks high in sugar have
Hay Fever
Hay fever can be miserable for so many people as • Keeping windows and doors shut as much as
the different blossoms and allergies run through the possible
whole summer.
Hay fever is not a long-term medical condition and
There’s currently no cure for hay fever and you treatment is only required for a few months each
unfortunately cannot prevent it. However, you can year so it can be managed without medical input.
do things to ease your symptoms when the pollen There are lots of different medications available,
valeria_aksakova
count is high including: most of which are available to buy from your
community pharmacy.
• Putting Petroleum Jelly around your nostrils to
T he summer months are finally upon us and
most of us welcome the sunshine and warmer
weather. But not only must we remember to
•
•
Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes.
Make sure you take water with you if you are
travelling.
•
trap pollen
Wearing wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen
getting into your eyes
Antihistamines can be bought for as little as £1.99
for 30 tablets and eye drops for as little as £4.99.
When you only need them now and
follow COVID-19 guidance, it is also important to again, it is better to buy over the
• Showering and changing your clothes after
remember the various health problems summer can • Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to you’ve been outside to wash pollen off
counter in a pharmacy or
bring that might affect you or your family. keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it supermarket.
may be cooler outdoors than indoors. • Vacuuming regularly and dust with a damp
Don’t let your summer be ruined by sunstroke, cloth For more advice on
• Drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and
dehydration or hay fever. Advice on avoiding the
caffeinated drinks can make you dehydrated. • Staying indoors whenever possible managing hay fever
worst of their effects is all covered in our guide to symptoms visit
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked • Buying an inga pollen filter for the air vents in
www.allergyuk.org.
summer health. your car and a vacuum cleaner with a special
vehicle, especially infants, young children or
animals. HEPA filter
Heatwaves and very hot weather • Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear
a hat if you have to go out in the heat, and
Bugs and Bites
The Met Office defines a heatwave when day time
try to keep out of the sun between 11am and
temperatures are over 30°C during the day and over
3pm.
30°C degrees celcius at night for 3 or more days.
• Take care and follow local safety advice if you
There are some easy ways to stay safe when the are going into the water to cool down. Like sunburn and sand between your toes, creams for itching and antihistamines from your
heat arrives. • Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of insects and bites are a pretty unpleasant pharmacy to have at home in case you need
the day. part of summer. Most insect bites and them.
• Look out for others, especially older people, stings are not serious and will get
young children and babies and those with better within a few hours or days. If you are worried about a bite or sting then seek
underlying health conditions. There’s lots of help available from advice from your community pharmacist, GP or
www.nhs.uk and you can also buy call NHS111.Page 14 CCG Insight Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 15
Sun Safety
Safer sleeping – advice for new parents
We all know sunscreen is important but using If sunscreen is applied too thinly, the amount of
the right one can be a little confusing. The NHS’ protection it gives is reduced. Areas such as the
general advice is a sun protection factor (SPF) back and sides of the neck, temples and ears
of at least 15 to protect against UVB and at least are commonly missed, so you need to apply it
four-star UVA protection. Of course, the best generously and be careful not to miss patches. It’s more important than ever to follow #safersleep advice.
protection from the sun is staying out of it at the
hottest parts of the day, from 11am to 3pm. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before
going out in the sun to allow it to dry. More is
Most people also don’t apply enough sunscreen. better and don’t forget to reapply sunscreen at
Due to the huge range of different products
available including lotions, mousses, sprays
least every two hours, and immediately after
swimming or sweating, or if it has rubbed off for W ith families isolating at home, having a young
baby can feel overwhelming, especially if they
wake during the night. Parents with young babies
and gels it is always best to check the individual example by towel drying.
product for advice on how to apply. may also have specific concerns about the risks
For more sun safety tips visit posed by coronavirus.
As a general guide, adults should aim to apply www.nhs.uk.
around two teaspoons of sunscreen if you’re The Lullaby Trust is an excellent source of advice and Tips for sharing the new
just covering your head, arms and neck or two support to help keep your baby safe. Some of their baby love
tablespoons if you’re covering your entire body top tips are below.
• Stay in touch with family over
while wearing a swimming costume. • Continue to breastfeed your baby if you are doing the internet with FaceTime,
so. WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom or
other apps.
• Continue to follow safer sleep advice to lower the
risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). • Take lots of pictures and
videos of your newborn to
• If you show symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) share with family and friends.
try not to cough or sneeze on your baby.
• If you are feeling overwhelmed
Sprains and Strains • If your baby is unwell with a cold or fever, don’t
be tempted to wrap them up more than usual. and you are increasingly
Babies need fewer layers so that they can lower anxious, it is important to talk
When the weather is nice it is the perfect stick may help if you can’t put weight on your
their body temperature. about this with your Health
opportunity to put down the TV remote and ankle or knee. A sling may help if you’ve Visitor.
head outdoors for some fun and games. Being injured your shoulder. • Always seek medical advice if you are worried
active is good for your overall wellbeing. It • Ice – apply an ice pack to the affected area about your baby – either linked to coronavirus
builds confidence, social skills and improves for 15-20 minutes every two to three hours. A (COVID-19) or any other health issue.
concentration and learning. It also helps us bag of frozen peas, or similar, will work well.
maintain a healthy weight and aids sleep. Just There is also specific advice to follow during the
Wrap the ice pack in a towel so that it doesn’t
remember to respect COVID-19 guidelines. COVID-19 crisis including symptoms your baby may
directly touch your skin and cause an ice exhibit and what medical advice you need to take in
burn. each instance. More information is available on the
However, with being active and playing sports
there is more risk of sprains and strains from • Compression – use elastic compression Lullaby Trust’s Safer Sleep webpage.
tripping and falling. Most minor sprains and bandages during the day to limit swelling.
If you have questions about safer sleep contact The
strains are relatively minor and can be treated • Elevation – keep the injured body part raised
Lullaby Trust information line on 0808 802 6869 or
at home with self-care techniques, such as above the level of your heart whenever
email info@lullabytrust.org.uk.
paracetamol or PRICE therapy (PRICE stands for possible. This may also help reduce swelling.
protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation.)
A community pharmacist can offer self-
• Protection – protect the affected area from care advice on managing sprains
further injury – for example, by using a and strains and advice on the
support. short-term use of over the
• Rest – avoid exercise and reduce your daily counter medicines until you
physical activity. Using crutches or a walking recover from your injury.
Icons adapted from originals on freepik.com and by MacrovectorPage 16 CCG Insight Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 17
Guest editor’s column: Supporting
Staying healthy and at home
LGBT communities across Essex
T o maintain social distancing and prevent the
spread of coronavirus, you are advised to stay
at home as much as possible. While you are at
The NHS App also allows you to set and change
which pharmacy your prescription is sent to, so you
could pick one that will deliver your medicine. With Jacquie Russell, Chief Executive of Outhouse East
home it's still easy to get NHS help and support
Manage long-term conditions: While staying at
using your smartphone, tablet or computer.
The NHS Health at Home webpage has information
home, it's important to keep managing any physical
or mental health conditions you may have. The
O uthouse East
is a small
charity providing
counsellors who volunteer their services to
us, all seeing up to four clients each.
letting you know how to access a number of NHS NHS Apps Library has a wide variety of apps We run two weekly youth groups, one in
vital support
services. and online tools that can help with this, covering Colchester and one in Basildon, with 10 to 25
and guidance
different conditions and categories like diabetes, young people attending each session. More
Contact your GP: Most GP surgeries can be to lesbian, gay,
pregnancy and maternity, and mental wellbeing. than 55 young people have registered with us
contacted online. You will be able to tell your bisexual, trans or
gender questioning to access support when needed and we also
GP about your health using an online form or by Maintain your mental and physical wellbeing: From
(LGBTQ+) people in offer a specific young people’s counsellor
speaking to someone online. This is called an health communities and forums to eating and Jacquie Russell
Essex. service and one-to-one support too.
online consultation. indoor exercise resources, there is plenty of online
support out there that can help you take control of In addition to these services we offer:
Order repeat prescriptions: Did you know you can The charity started 40 years ago as the
your health from home.
order repeat prescriptions online, without needing Colchester Gay Switch board and today we • Saturday socials
to go to a GP surgery or pharmacy? You can collect If you need an NHS service, try to do it online first. deliver Essex-wide LGBTQ+ awareness
• A support group for parents whose
a prescription yourself, or ask a friend, relative or If you cannot get what you need this way try asking training to public, private, and non-profit
children are transitioning (Colchester
volunteer to collect it for you. a friend or family member to help you, or speak to agencies across the county.
base)
your GP surgery on the phone. Find out more at:
You could also speak to your pharmacy about In 2018/19 we delivered 82 sessions to • Two Trans support groups.
nhs.uk/health-at-home
delivering your medicine to your home, rather than more than 1,300 people, focused on tackling • A women’s craft group
needing to collect it. conscious and unconscious bias and building
awareness of the specific issues faced by We also have agreements in place with Metro
members of the LGBTQ+ community at work, (HIV support), Next Chapter (a domestic
in health and throughout their lives. abuse charity) and Cara (centre for action on
rape and abuse) who are based in our centre
This work combined with strong partnerships supporting our community.
with other organisations and individuals has
enabled us to build a strong, cohesive and We would like to build on our current services
influential voice for Essex residents. to become all-inclusive of any support
needed, ensuring stability for our community
We currently offer a variety of services and ourselves – so please get in contact if
ourselves, which include a counselling you need support or want to get involved!
service, overseen by a coordinator and a
clinical supervisor. We currently have 10
Not sure
what to do?
Go straight to
Go online, use the NHS App or call 111.nhs.uk
BE PROUDPage 18 CCG Insight Issue 18: Summer 2020 Page 19
See a health professional at Thurrock leads the way on personalised
the Thurrock Health Hubs care for children and young people
The Thurrock Health Hubs continue to support patients and GP practices Hear how this personalised approach delivered
‘what matters’ to some of the young people who
in these challenging times. Find out more about how the can help you. benefitted. And how this impacted on the mental
health professionals, and; provided benefits
to the wider system (including other people
The last few months have seen many changes to how we use
involved in supporting young people).
healthcare. The Thurrock Health Hubs, like all other services Remember your family's
have had to change the way it does things in order to keep This film shows the 4 stages of the Positive
staff and patients safe, but the service continues to provide immunisations Pathways personalised care offer. It forms a
appointments with health professionals seven days a week. Don’t forget to take up your case study for NHS England and Improvement
Whether it's a GP, practice nurse or physiotherapist, the hubs vaccinations. It’s really important and is held as an excellent example of the
are able to provide a number of services to support you. for childhood immunisations to be Thurrock’s Positive Pathway programme has personalisation of care and support to the
completed on time to protect your child enabled Children and Young people (CYP) individual.
Hubs Manager, Gemma Curtis, said: "We have all had to make from nasty diseases like measles or using local mental health services to access
changes to protect lives and support the NHS, however, we just mumps. personalised care and a personal health budget Click the link to view the video https://youtu.be/
want to reassure Thurrock residents that we are still here and where needed. Working with Thurrock Mind, U7wL0UMiGH0
are able to help you with your health needs. You can book your child's vaccinations
local NELFT Children’s services and community
at your GP practice or Thurrock Health
and voluntary services, has meant an offer
"It's easy to forget or put aside those regular little tasks and Hubs. Medical services are working
appointments during a crisis, but these are still important.
that is as unique as the person who needs the
really hard to provide an environment
Regular procedures like cervical screening and immunisations support.
that is safe for you and your loved
save lives every year, so if you are due one of these, please ones. Please don't ignore your child's
do book an appointment either with your regular GP practice or vaccinations, they save lives.
with us here at the hubs."
GP service pilot at Orsett Hospital
You can book into the Thurrock Health
If you are registered at a GP practice in Thurrock, just call your Hubs by calling your GP practice.
regular practice to book an appointment at one of the hubs. find
out more about the hubs on the CCG's Thurrock Health Hubs
webpage. Minor Injuries Unit comes to an end
South Ockendon Hub
Bluebells Surgery Have you had your The GP in Minor Injuries Unit pilot has now There’s also the Thurrock Health Hubs, which
come to an end. You will no longer be able offer evening and weekend appointments 7
Darenth Lane
South Ockendon cervical screening yet? to access a GP in the Minor Injuries Unit at days a week providing extended access to
RM15 5LP
Fobbing Hub
Every day two women die from cervical Orsett. This was originally a pilot that had been appointments with GPs, nurses and other health
33 Fobbing Road cancer in England. Cervical screening extended while we ensured more provision for professionals. Find out more about the hubs on
Purfleet Hub Corringham
Purfleet Care Centre SS17 9BG can prevent potentially harmful, primary care was made available in Thurrock. our Thurrock Health Hubs webpage.
Tank Hill Road cancerous cells from developing,
Purfleet The numbers of people using the service The Health Hubs also support on the day
stopping cancer before it starts.
RM19 1SX has been decreasing and there are lots more appointments, which can be booked through
If you're due an appointment soon, appointments available across our GP practices, your GP practice. In addition, the health hubs
please remember to book it with your with enhanced primary care services now in offer appointments for things like immunisations,
GP practice or the Thurrock Health place, including paramedic practitioners, clinical vaccinations, diabetes and long-term condition
Corringham Hub Hubs. pharmacists, advanced nurse practitioners, support and much more.
Neera Medical Centre physiotherapists and mental health support.
2 Wharf Road The Thurrock Health Hubs offer cervical Find out more about these latest roles in
Stanford-Le-Hope screening appointments on weekday
general practice on our webpage about the
SS17 0BY evenings and at the weekend.
expanded GP practice team.
Grays Hub Get the facts on cervical screening
Tilbury Hub
Thurrock here: nhs.uk/cervicalscreening
Community Hospital Sai Medical Centre
Long Lane 105 Calcutta Road
Grays Tilbury
RM16 2PX RM18 7QACCG insight Issue 18: Summer 2020
Page 20 CCGPage
Insight
20
If you would like this in a different format, such as large print, easy-read,
braille or tape, or in a different language, please contact the CCG by
email: thurrock.ccg@nhs.netYou can also read
