Practice News

World Malaria Day, 25th April

Malaria is a life-threatening disease which is spread to humans by some types of mosquitoes. It is mostly found in tropical countries, especially Africa, and it is preventable and curable. Mild symptoms are fever, chills and headache. Severe symptoms include fatigue, confusion, seizures, and difficulty breathing. The majority of people who die from malaria are children.

World Malaria Day, organised by the World Health Organization, highlights the need for continued investment and sustained political commitment for malaria prevention and control.

You can learn more at https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-malaria-day

World Immunisation Week, 24th–30th April

World Immunisation Week aims to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases across the globe.

This year’s theme is, ‘For every generation, vaccines work,’ and this awareness week will promote how vaccines have safely protected people, families, and communities for generations – and continue to safeguard our future.

To find out more about the importance of immunisation, or to get involved, visit https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-immunization-week/2026

Earth Day, 22nd April

This Earth Day, we are all asked to lift our voices, take action, and show our love for Planet Earth.

Earth Day is Wednesday, April 22, but events start from Saturday, April 18th so that everyone can join in. Events continue throughout Earth Week and beyond, and include community cleanups, teach-ins, peaceful demonstrations and tree planting.

You can find toolkits, news and fact sheets, and find or register an Earth Day event in your area on the Earth Day website, https://www.earthday.org/earth-hub/

Allergy Awareness Week, 22nd–28th April

Allergy affects more than a quarter of the UK population, and occurs when the body’s immune system reacts inappropriately to normally harmless substances. Some allergies are mild, but more severe cases can cause anaphylaxis, which can be fatal.

Many people’ symptoms go unrecognised, and they don’t get the support they need. So this year, the theme of Allergy Awareness Week is ‘I Wish I Knew: Diagnosis Matters’.

You can find out more about the campaign and learn about allergy symptoms, next steps and anaphylaxis on the Allergy UK website: https://www.allergyuk.org/allergy-awareness-weeks/

MS Awareness Week, 20th–26th April

More than 150,000 people in the UK have Multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that affects the nerves in your brain and spinal cord, causing a range of symptoms like blurred vision and problems with how you move, think and feel.

MS Awareness Week is designed to raise awareness about the condition and the issues people with MS are talking about. In 2026 the focus is on challenging MS assumptions and the harm they can cause. You can find out more at https://www.mssociety.org.uk/get-involved/ms-awareness-week

Lesbian Visibility Week, 20th–26th April

During Lesbian Visibility Week, people across the UK come together to celebrate, connect and make LGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people visible in every space. The theme for Lesbian Visibility Week 2026 is Health and Wellbeing.

You can join in by hosting an event, starting a conversation, sharing your story or supporting someone else’s work. The important thing is to show up and make space for LGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people to be seen, heard and celebrated. Visit https://www.lesbianvisibilityweek.com for more information.

World Parkinson’s Day, 11th April

In the UK, around 166,000 people live with Parkinson’s, and someone new is diagnosed every 20 minutes. There are over 40 symptoms of Parkinson’s. But the main three are a tremor (shaking), slowness of movement and rigidity (muscle stiffness). More information can be found at https://www.parkinsons.org.uk

Last year, more than 180 landmarks, buildings and homes were lit up in blue to shine a light on Parkinson’s, and people knitted, baked and wore blue to raise awareness and fundraise for research and support. Find out how you can join in this year’s ‘Make it Blue’ campaign at https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/community/world-parkinsons-

World Health Day, 7th April

Every year, World Health Day draws attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world. The theme for 2026 is ‘Together for health. Stand with science.’ We are all invited to celebrate the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants, and the planet.

WHO and its partners help countries to improve their research and systems to make good health care accessible to all. Learn more at https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-health-day

World Autism Acceptance Month, 1st– 30th April

Autistic people face discrimination and barriers across all sectors of society. They, and their families and carers, need support to overcome those barriers, and opportunities to explore interests, develop skills and lead fulfilling lives.

World Autism Acceptance Month is a time for everyone to get involved in fundraising, sharing resources, raising awareness and helping to create a society that works for autistic people. Walk, run or fundraise your own way!

Find out more and sign up at https://waam.autism.org.uk

IBS Awareness Month, 1st– 30th April

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that causes episodes of abdominal pain and often discomfort when using the toilet. It does not shorten your life, but leads to more pain, health care appointments, and surgeries, impacting quality of life, and sometimes the ability to work full-time.

This April, you can help to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support people with IBS by sharing the hashtags #IBSAwarenessMonth and #MoreThanAStomachache

Find out more at https://aboutibs.org/living-with-ibs/ibs-awareness-month/

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, 1st– 30th April

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, and Bowel Cancer Awareness Month aims to increase awareness of the importance of early diagnosis and knowing the symptoms, which you can find here: https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/about-bowel-cancer/symptoms/

These symptoms don’t mean you definitely have bowel cancer, but it’s important to check. The earlier bowel cancer is spotted, the more treatable it is, and the more likely it can be cured.

Why not get involved in Bowel Cancer UK’s ActiveApril campaign, and get active while fundraising to support people with bowel cancer! Sign up on their website: https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk

Stress Awareness Month, 1st– 30th April

Stress is not always a ‘bad’ thing. However, when we experience stress in our workplace or everyday lives, it can affect our ability to function, and long-term stress can damage our health.

Workplace stress is reaching record levels worldwide, so Stress Awareness Month gives organisations a chance to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and actively support employee wellbeing before issues escalate. Learn more at: https://www.stress.org.uk/stress-awareness-month-2026/

Stay Strong Get Vaccinated

Say it with a Smile

Beezee Families

BZ Families April 26 LOCKED new User Timetable with online sessions.pdf

Hertfordshire and West Essex Pharmacy Opening Times Easter Sunday (5th April 2026)

Please find information on opening times for Community Pharmacies over the Easter Period: Hertfordshire-West-Essex-Easter-2026.pdf

Cervical Screening Results via NHS App

Participant FAQs

Q: How do I download the NHS App?
A: The NHS App is available on iOS and Android through the App Store or Google Play
Store. Further information about the app is available here: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/

Q: I received a text message from NHSscreen to book my cervical screening
appointment, is it genuine?
A: Yes, any SMS messages sent by Cervical Screening will come from NHSscreen.

Q: I have the NHS App downloaded; how do I ensure my notifications are switched
on?
A: To manage your NHS App notifications: navigate to the NHS App and log in; select the
Account icon in the top corner; select Notifications located under Settings. This page will
© NHS England 2025 4
show you whether your notifications are on or off. To make changes to your notifications,
follow the link to your device settings.

Q: Can I book my cervical screening appointment through the NHS App invitation?
A: Your invitation will direct you to book your cervical screening appointment in the same
way you do currently do – either by contacting your GP practice or a local sexual health
service.

Q: Why have I received an invitation from both my GP surgery and the NHS App?
A: Some GP surgeries may already be using SMS or an app to send invitations for
cervical screening. In this case, you may receive multiple invitations from both your GP
surgery and the NHS App. Please note, if you have booked your appointment following
receiving either invitation, your appointment is booked, and no further action is required.

Q: Can I still receive a physical letter if I need to?
A: Physical letters will continue to be sent to those who do not read this NHS App
messages within 72 hours.

Q: Why is the NHS using digital communications?
A: By using faster, more accessible digital communications and enhanced accuracy,
cervical screening programmes will improve engagement and achieve significant cost
savings, ensuring the long-term sustainability of NHS resources. The use of digital
communications also conforms to current best practices and expectations when interacting
with organisations.

Q: What is the difference between the NHS App and the app my GP surgery use?
A: The NHS App and apps used by GP surgeries are both used for accessing NHS
services, but they are different platforms. The NHS App is a more comprehensive platform
that includes features from apps such as ‘My GP’ and ‘Patient Access’ and is now
recommended by the NHS as the preferred way to access these services. For cervical
screening, you will only receive communications via the NHS App.

Q: Is it only cervical screening communications I can expect on the NHS app?
A: Bowel cancer screening is also rolling out digital-first communications in 2026. We will
provide updates when any changes are made to other screening programmes.
© NHS England 2025 5

Q: Will I also receive my cervical screening results via the NHS App?
A: If you have the NHS App downloaded, your results will be delivered via the NHS App
within 2-3 weeks. If you don’t have NHS App, you will be sent a letter in the post.

To enable these notifications and further information please follow this link : www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/  

The Serge Hill Project Gardening For Health Cancer Recovery Group

The Serge Hill Project Gardening For Health Cancer Recovery Group

The Serge Hill Project for Gardening, Creativity and Health is a not-for-profit based in Bedmond, which works to bring people into contact with nature. As part of our Gardening for Health session we run a 12-week programme of gardening and creative activities for people recovering from or undergoing treatment for cancer and who have had a diagnosis in the last 5 years.

Our next 2 courses will run on Tuesday afternoons from June - Sept 2026 & Sept – Dec 2026

There are 8 places available on each course. Anyone eligible interested in joining can self-refer to us, we just send out a form for them to complete. 

Activities include a range of therapeutic and creative gardening activities such as practical gardening, weeding, seed collection, seed sowing, planting, flower pressing, harvesting crops, digital photography, flower arranging, ground preparation, composting, mindfulness and are adjusted for the changing seasons as appropriate! The sessions are led by Becky and Julie, who is a Macmillan Consultant Nurse and florist. Sessions are in the beautiful, purpose-built community building, the Apple House eco-barn, and in the surrounding Plant Library which contains over 2000 species of plants as well as across the therapeutic beds. 

Here's feedback from one of our attendees: 

'Fantastic Course with Becky & Julie they were wonderful. Our group was fantastic & we gelled on the 1st Session. We all supported each other & have become firm friends. The course was so varied & the activities fun & interesting. Loved every minute'

This group is for those who 

• Are adults aged 18+ only who can organise their own travel to and from The Serge Hill Project, WD5 0RZ and are reasonably local to the area
• Can attend at least 9 out of the 12 sessions and have a good level of physical health, please consult with your GP if you are unsure of your suitability.
• May be struggling with emotional adjustment and anxiety after cancer diagnosis / treatment
• May be struggling with the impact of cancer / treatment on their physical wellbeing
• May be experiencing fatigue and struggling with motivation after a cancer diagnosis / treatment
• Would benefit from emotional and social support after or during cancer treatment

To take part, please contact Becky Fincham, Director of Programmes at the Serge Hill Project on becky@sergehillproject.co.uk -who will send them a referral form to self-refer to join us or help them complete it over the phone. 

www.sergehillproject.co.uk  / Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sergehillproject

World Health Day

Tuesday 7th April 2026 11am to 3pm at Everyone Active: Watford Leisure Centre Central 

Abnormal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) survey for men over 65 and their carers

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) survey for men over 65 and their carers: Please complete this survey to share your experiences and thoughts.

An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is an abnormal swelling in the main artery supplying blood around the body.  There is a risk that this could burst, which may be fatal.  Screening is a free NHS service offered to men who are registered with a GP and 65+ to detect an aneurysm.  This is an ultrasound scan which is quick, painless and reliable.  

 In 2025 a NHS England survey showed that 99.2% of men in Hertfordshire were offered an AAA screening test but only 82.3% of men were tested. In more deprived areas this figure fell to 73.8%.   Of the patients with an abnormal scan 100% were reviewed within 21 days but less than half (44.8%) of men attended for a nurse assessment to discuss what to do next. 

We would value your help in understanding why and what could be done better. Please complete this survey to share your experiences and thoughts.

Chickenpox and vaccines

Chickenpox is on the rise in the UK. Not only does this impact on children who may suffer from the condition, it also creates difficulties for immune-supressed and vulnerable peers.

It’s a common infection in children that spreads easily. While it’s usually mild, it can lead to serious complications which need hospitalisation, including chest infections and fits.

All young children are now eligible for vaccination. The vaccine will be combined with the existing MMR jab (given at 12 and 18 months of age), which already helps protect against measles, mumps and rubella. Children up to the age of six can catch up on doses when invited.

Book with us today.

Becoming Dad

Preparing for Parenthood

Hertfordshire Family Centre Service

Family Support Service Leaflet.pdf

International Women's Day Event Tuesday 10th March 2026

The Hertfordshire Directory

A gateway to community services, groups and activities across the county. 

Directory poster Nov 25(0).pptx

Wrap Your Children up With the Best Protection - Childhood Vaccinations

Wrap Your Childten Up With The Best Protection- Vaccinations 

Stay Strong. 

Get Vaccinated. 

Wrap Your Children Up With The Best Protection

Wrap your Children up with the Best Protection - Vaccinations

Stay Strong. 

Get Vaccinated. 

Heart Health Month: Show your heart

We run Beezee Families, a FREE heathy lifestyle programme that our nutritionists deliver across Hertfordshire. The 12-week programme supports families to build healthy habits around food, physical activity, and how to have fun while doing so!

Our current programmes are in full swing but you can secure your FREE spot now for April. Places fill up fast so make to book soon! If you can’t wait to get started on your healthy lifestyle journey, you can learn at your own pace over on our Academy. Visit our website for more details

Cancer Hope Course at Grove House starts 24th February 2026

The course is for people who have had cancer treatment or whose cancer is stable and they feel they need support to move forward independently.

HOPE (Help Overcoming Problems Effectively) is a six-week course to help people manage the practical and emotional challenges they may face after a cancer diagnosis, including during and after treatment. 

This course will help them develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to continue doing the things that they value and find meaningful in their life. 

They will be able to meet and talk to people facing similar challenges, and learn how to get back on track with life. 

The sessions are supportive and will help them to learn how to deal with any anxieties, low mood, and feelings of frustration they may feel. They will develop short- and long-term goals to help them cope with thier diagnosis. 

They will be able to: 

• Find new ways to regain their confidence, independence, and self-esteem.  

• Learn how to overcome emotional and practical difficulties.   

• Gain new techniques to help them improve their sleep, relaxation, physical activity, stress, fatigue, mindfulness, and life priorities.  
• Make plans to achieve goals and feel more positive. 

https://renniegrovepeace.org/events/hope-6-week-course/

To book onto this course, please call 01923 60 60 30 or email the Coordination Centre – coordinationcentre@renniegrovepeace.org

Or

Referral through the Self referral form https://renniegrovepeace.org/our-care-and-support/access-our-care/confidential-enquiry-self-referral-form/

Dignity Awareness Month

If you receive care from others, you’ll know how important it is that you’re treated with dignity and respect. Dignity Action Month helps to raise awareness of this important issue. https://www.dignityincare.org.uk/Dignity-in-Care-events/dignity-action-month/

Measles

Last year saw an increase in measles cases, taking the number of cases to the highest it has been in decades. Vaccination is important to ensure the long-term health of your child, and of the nation as a whole.
https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/01/2...date-with-our-vaccines-to-protect-against-it/

Vaccinations for children in the UK are changing, with many children now being eligible for a vaccination that includes protection against chicken pox as well as other conditions that can cause serious complications.
https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/nhs-vaccinations-and-when-to-have-them/

Measles can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, meningitis, blindness and seizures. Measles cases in the UK are rising and if you’re not yet vaccinated, you should make an appointment to see your GP practice.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/measles/

NHS App

Are you using the NHS App? Filled with useful information and the ability to access GP services and your health records, managing your health has never been easier. https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/

Wash Your Hands

You should make sure you wash your hands thoroughly. It’s especially important to wash your hands:

• After using the toilet or changing a nappy
• Before and after handling raw foods like meat and vegetables
• Before eating or handling food
• After blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing
• Before and after treating a cut or wound
• After touching animals, including pets, their food and after cleaning their cages

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/best-way-to-wash-your-hands/

Self Care

Over 15 million people in the UK are living with a health condition. This helpful toolkit shows the ways in which you can learn to manage your condition to help improve your overall quality of life.
https://www.bma.org.uk/media/1936/bma-plg-selfcare-nov-19.pdf

Heart Awareness

In the UK, someone dies from a heart or circulatory condition every three minutes. That’s almost 500 people every day, and almost 200,000 every year. February is Heart Month, so let’s raise awareness and help reduce this number.
https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/support-our-campaigns/heart-month

Age Concern

If you’re an older adult, or you care for an older adult, Age Concern can offer help, support and advice to help you stay healthy and well, to ensure older age is enjoyable.
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/

Stay Well in Winter

If you remain cold over a period of time, you can become unwell, particularly if you’re in a more vulnerable group, such as those with chronic conditions, older adults or young children. It’s important to stay warm to reduce the risk of illness and unplanned hospital admissions.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/keep-warm-keep-well/

There are a few things you can do to help keep you and your family safe and well over the winter months. Cold increases the risk of illness and hospital admissions in the vulnerable, so staying warm really can help you to stay well.
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/keep-well-this-winter/

Stress in Children

Children can experience stress in similar ways to adults, but they may express their stress in different ways as their ability to describe their feelings may not match the depth of their emotions.
https://www.unicef.org/parenting/mental-health/what-is-stress

Children often absorb more from their surroundings than we might imagine. Overhearing adults’ concerns about things like money, jobs and their own education can translate into stress and anxiety.
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/children-and-young-adults/advice-for-parents/anxiety-in-children/

Childhood Obesity

Overweight children have an increased chance of becoming overweight adults. Increased weight in adulthood can lead to long-term conditions such as Type 2 diabetes. Simple tips can help your child regain a healthy weight. Checking what their BMI is can help too. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/childrens-weight/advice-for-parents-overweight-children/

Depression

Depression is often misunderstood, but it’s more than a passing low mood. Mild depression can mean you’re unable to enjoy your normal activities, while severe depression can make you feel suicidal or as if life isn’t worth living. If you’re struggling with feelings of depression, please ask for an appointment.
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/depression-in-adults/overview/

If you’re struggling with feelings of depression, there are things you can do to help your mood. Getting outdoors and doing exercise are some of the well-known tips for helping mood, but what are the others?
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/cope-with-depression/

You Said We Did- GP Contract Changes 1st October 2025

Mental Health

Winter months can be challenging ; short days, cold weather and the pressure of a new year and finances can take their toll on our mental health.

If you’re finding things tough, you’re not alone. Setting small goals and prioritising your wellbeing can make a big difference. Put yourself first this January.
https://wellbeingtrust.org/blogs/ja...the-holidays-to-your-own-personal-well-being/

As the days get shorter and darker, some people experience a drop in mood, energy and motivation – in some cases, they may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It’s more common than many realise, especially during the winter months. If you’re finding that this is impacting on your daily life, make an appointment with your clinician.
https://www.mind.org.uk/information...-disorder-sad/understanding-your-experiences/

111/ Signposting

Not quite feeling yourself and think you need medical help? Then visit 111 to seek help for your symptoms. Find advice for:

• Current symptoms or injury
• Dental problems
• Mental health help
• Medicines assistance
• Help with an existing condition

Simply visit https://111.nhs.uk/ or access 111 via the NHS App.

Foodbanks

There is nothing worse than hunger when you’re cold, and if you’re struggling to feed yourself or your children, a food bank can supply an emergency parcel with enough food for at least three days.

To receive support from a food bank, you’ll need a referral for a food voucher. Contact your local Citizens Advice: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/food-bank/using-a-food-bank/

With the cost of living soaring, more and more people are struggling to feed themselves and their families. Remember, if you’re in need, your local foodbank is there to help.
https://www.trussell.org.uk/emergency-food/find-a-foodbank

Health Choices

Feeling under the weather? Think you need medical help? Choosing the right service can help you get the right care at the right time.

Mental Health

The festive season can be fun, but it can also be overwhelming. It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions, and it’s important to make time for yourself.

• Set boundaries: It’s okay to say no.
• Take breaks: Rest is just as important as celebration.
• Talk: Speak to someone if you feel lonely or stressed.
• Be kind to yourself: You’re doing your best.

However you plan to spend the Christmas period, put your wellbeing on your own to-do list!
https://www.mind.org.uk/information...nd-mental-health/christmas-and-mental-health/

Andy’s Man Club is a safe space for men to come together and talk. It can be intimidating to attend a group for the first time, especially if you’re feeling low, but knowing how welcoming the group can be will help you feel more comfortable about attending.

Discover more here:
https://www.facebook.com/andysmancl...n-andysmanclub-mensmentalhea/959917289509989/

COMMUNITY MEET UPS

Monthly Drop In for People Impacted by Cancer 

Whether you're living with cancer or caring for someone, these meet ups are for you. 

A relaxed drop in space to:

• Connect with others who understand 
• Find support 
• Share stories in a safe, welcoming environment 

Open to anyone affected by cancer 

Friendly conversations 

Free to attend 

No booking needed 

SAMARITANS

Whatever you're facing 

We're here to listen 

Call free day or night on 116 123

E-mail jo@samaritans.org

Write to us at Freepost SAMARITANS LETTERS 

samaritans.org 

Peri/Menopause and emotional wellbeing

Hertfordshire Talking Therapies offers psychological help and employment support for people experiencing a wide range of common emotional difficulties. It is part of the NHS Talking Therapies, for anxiety and depression programme.

How can we support:
Peri/Menopause is a life transition that all people who have or have had menstrual cycles go through. It is characterised by hormonal fluctuations and decreasing levels of the hormones oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
Many people find these changes overwhelming and difficult to navigate. It can be hard to talk about how you are feeling and ask for help, but you do not have to struggle alone; there is support available.

More information can be found here Peri menopause / Menopause leaflet

Right to Choose: ASD & ADHD Assessment Pathways

What is Right to Choose?
In England, under the NHS, you now have a legal right to choose your mental healthcare provider, including for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessments. This service, offered through the NHS, is free of charge.

Introduction to Right to Choose Referrals
Did you know that NHS patients have the legal right to select their mental healthcare provider? This important right allows you to explore alternative providers if the waiting time for an ADHD or ASD assessment is too long. Right to Choose, introduced in 2018, is still a relatively new system, and many patients may not be aware of these options.

Who Can Offer Right to Choose Assessments?
Several clinics across the UK offer Right to Choose ADHD and/or ASD assessments. To be eligible to provide this service, clinics must also offer the same service to the NHS in England. Private-only clinics are not eligible. Checking a provider’s website is a good way to determine if they offer the services you need.

Which Providers Offer Right to Choose Assessments?
The list of clinics offering Right to Choose assessments is constantly evolving. Currently, several clinics are available, but there may be other providers worth researching as well.

Important Resources

• ADHD & Right to Choose referrals: Visit the ADHD website for more information.
• ASD & Right to Choose referrals: Visit the National Autistic Society website for helpful details.

Things to Consider About Right to Choose
It’s important to note that many clinics offering these assessments can diagnose ADHD or ASD but may not provide medication titration. This means you might need a local NHS referral if medication is required to manage symptoms.

When Can You Not Use Right to Choose?
There are certain restrictions on eligibility for Right to Choose referrals. You are not eligible if:

• You require urgent or emergency treatment.
• You are already receiving care for the condition you are seeking an assessment for.
• The provider you choose cannot provide appropriate care for your condition.
• You are a prisoner or in specific secure settings such as a secure hospital or under the Mental Health Act.
• You are a serving member of the armed forces.

How to Request a Right to Choose Referral from Your GP
Have an open conversation with your GP about your concerns regarding ADHD or ASD. Your GP may suggest a referral for an official assessment. With extensive waiting times for ADHD and ASD assessments in Hertfordshire, Right to Choose can offer faster alternatives, reducing the long wait for diagnosis and support.

What Happens After Choosing a Clinic?
Once you select a clinic, either you or your family (if the patient is a child) will need to research and decide which provider to choose. Your GP cannot advise on which clinic to select. After making your choice, email or send an admin E-consult with your selection and any relevant forms to ensure an efficient referral process. The NHS standard contract (section 7.9) dictates the use of the e-RS referral system but does not require the use of a form to accompany such a referral. Your GP will make the referral by letter but will not complete forms created by the providers.

How Much Quicker Will Right to Choose Be?
The speed of the assessment depends on your chosen clinic and whether they offer medication titration. Generally, Right to Choose assessments can take anywhere from 12 weeks to 12 months—much quicker than the local NHS alternatives, which have waiting times of up to 7 years. If a clinic offers a diagnosis but not medication titration, you may need an additional referral for post-diagnostic support,which can take up to 24 months locally. Your GP will not initiate specialist medication and will only prescribe once the patient is stable on a dose and if the provider can meet the same standard for shared care as local NHS services.

Why Choose Right to Choose If Medication May Not Be Easily Accessible?
Many patients find that a diagnosis is sufficient for obtaining additional support from schools or employers, or they may not need medication at all for managing their conditions.

Further Questions?
If you have additional questions, a simple call to your surgery may provide answers. For further research, here are some helpful resources:

Information on ADHD

• AHD UKD: A charity offering free advice and information on ADHD and Right to Choose referrals
• ADHD Foundation: The UK’s leading neurodiversity charity, offering services for those who live with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, DCD, Dyscalculia, OCD, Tourette’s Syndrome and more
• NHS Website
• Mind: ADHD and mental health

Information on ASD

• National Autistic Society: offer support and advise for autistic people in the UK and their families
• Autism Speaks: Autism Speaks is dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan
• NHS Website
• Mind: Autism and mental health

Supporting Dads

Calling all dads in Hertfordshire!

Discover a wealth of resources and support tailored just for you at the Families First Support for Dads webpage. Whether you're looking for parenting tips, local activities, or advice, we've got you covered. What you'll find:-

- Parenting advice and tips

- Local events and activities

- Support services and resources

- Community connections

Visit our page and be the best dad you can be!

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/familiesfirstdads

Healthy Herts

Their aim is to promote cardiovascular health and well-being throughout the local community in Hertfordshire, England.

Whether you're managing cardiovascular conditions, concerned about your heart health, or caring for a family member, they're here to provide support.

Explore the website for valuable resources, including links to support organisations, frequently asked questions, and a form where you can express interest in participating in their events.

Collaborating closely with the practice team, they're committed to refining the referral process, ensuring tailored support through local charities and social prescribers. For more information or to get involved, please reach out to the practice directly or complete their contact form.

Blood Tests

A notice from West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

You now need to book an appointment for a blood test

From December 1st you can register with the online system to book appointments from December 14th