Practice News

Thinking Ahead

Thinking Ahead 

Most people want a 'good death', but what does this actually mean?

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 22nd - 28th January

During Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, we’re encouraging women and people with a cervix to attend their cervical screening appointment – it really helps to save lives. Cervical screening is a free health test that can prevent up to 75% of instances of cervical cancer and is estimated to save 5,000 lives per year.
Book your test today.

Cervical screening can sometimes feel worrying, but knowing what to expect during your appointment can help to put you at ease and make it easier to attend. The test itself usually takes less than five minutes. Although it may feel briefly uncomfortable, it’s an important check that could save your life.
https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/cervical-screening/what-happens/#:~:text=The cervical screening test itself,should take about 10 minutes

Love your Liver Month

Did you know, your liver performs over 500 jobs to keep you alive? So, it’s important to show it some love! When it’s damaged, the liver can repair itself, but only up to a point. Sadly, people with liver disease often don’t have any symptoms until the disease has progressed and it’s far too late for treatment. So, look after your liver with these top tips:

• Focus on a balanced diet
• Stay hydrated
• Minimise alcohol
• Take the correct dosage of medications
• Ensure safe hygiene to reduce the risk of hepatitis

https://britishlivertrust.org.uk/information-and-support/love-your-liver/

Did you know that nine out of ten cases of liver disease could have been prevented? During Love You Liver Month, it’s the ideal time to make some lifestyle changes to protect your hepatic health. Cutting down on alcohol and making changes to what you eat could make a big difference.
https://britishlivertrust.org.uk/love-your-liver-month/factsheets/

Dry January

Whether you’ve overindulged during the festive season or you’re simply ready to make a change for your health, January is a great time to reset your relationship with alcohol. To keep you motivated, the free Try Dry® app will keep you on track. Download it today: https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january

Trying Dry January can have many more benefits that you’d expect; not only will your bank balance see a positive change but your health will thank you! In just 30 days, you’ll find you sleep better, your energy levels and concentration will increase, and by the end of the month, you’ll have reduced your risk of developing cancer. Why not give it a try?
https://alcoholchange.org.uk/blog/benefits-of-dry-january-and-when-you-can-expect-to-see-them

(Tip: Add any local resources and groups related to alcohol awareness.)

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/

Veganuary

January is the perfect time to try something new, and Veganuary is all about exploring delicious, plant-based meals while making a positive impact on both your health and the planet.

Are you taking part in Veganuary this year? Let us know your favourite plant-based dishes below!

Whether you’re trying to be vegan for the month of January, or you’re experimenting with a few meat-free meals, every change makes a positive impact on animals, the planet and you. Going plant-based can help you lose weight, improve kidney function and lower blood sugar levels while reducing your carbon footprint, deforestation and water pollution. Find some recipe ideas here: https://veganuary.com/recipes/

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.

Walk Your Dog Month

After you get home from a long day at work, it can be a challenge to want to head back out into the cold to walk your dog, but exercise is essential for both you and your four-legged friend. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem....aking-of-health/dogs-are-good-for-your-health

Did you know that walking your dog has positive physical and mental benefits for both you and your pooch? Pick up that lead and get walking this January. https://www.wuth.nhs.uk/news/latest-news/2025/01/how-daily-dog-walks-can-transform-live/

Those dark mornings and evenings during winter can be demotivating, but whatever the weather, your dog needs to get out and stretch his/her legs – and it’s great for your health too! Why not show us a picture of your dog out and about below?

New Year, New Challenges

You hear it every year, but now is the time to make those resolutions and stick to them! Whatever your aims for January, setting yourself small, manageable goals can help you achieve more. https://practiceindex.co.uk/gp/blog/new-year-resolutions-for-managers/

Do you want to eat better? Exercise more? Cut down on screen time? Whatever you plan for your New Year’s resolutions, putting yourself first and prioritising your wellbeing will set you on the right path as we go into 2026. Here are some hints to help you stick to your resolutions: https://www.calm.com/blog/new-year-resolutions

Thinking that 2026 is your year to get more active? Couch to 5k is a free nine-week programme taking you from the comfort of your home to running towards a healthier lifestyle. What are you waiting for?
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/get-running-with-couch-to-5k/

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 

Say it with a Smile

Life- changing Dementia Support Course 

Next Course 

Thursday 8th,15th,22nd and 29th January 2026

Time: 10.15am to 12.30pm 

Venue: Leavesden Country Park, YMCA Community Hub, College Road, Abbots Langley. WD5 0GU 

Booking Required 

• Created for people diagnosed with Dementia, their carers and loved ones 
• Designed by Say it with a Smile families 
• Led by Medical Professionals and Social Care Providers 

Booking and information 

Call: 07398 425 040

E-Mail: info@sayitwithasmile.org.uk

Website: www.sayitwithasmile.org.uk

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