St James and St Osyth Surgery

22/06/2026

🔴⚠️ A Red Heat-Health Alert has been issued across the Midlands and southern England until 25 June. This is the highest level of alert and indicates a risk to everyone's health, not just vulnerable groups. Northern England is under an Amber alert.
For further information, visit the data dashboard:
🔗 https://ukhsa-dashboard.data.gov.uk/weather-health-alerts/heat?type=heat

22/06/2026

🌡️ ☀️ Did you know some medications can make it harder for your body to stay cool in hot weather?

Certain medicines, including some antidepressants, antipsychotics, blood pressure medications, diuretics (“water tablets”) and antihistamines, can increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

This week, make sure you:

💧 Stay hydrated
🆒 Keep cool
🤝 Check in with those who may be more vulnerable

The heat can affect anyone, but older people, those with long-term health conditions and people taking certain medications may be at greater risk.

Enjoy the sunshine safely, and if you have any concerns about your health or medication, speak to your GP, pharmacist or mental health team.

18/06/2026

05/06/2026

Need help using the NHS App?

Free support is available at libraries across Essex to help you get online and access NHS services with confidence.

Essex Libraries staff can help you:

✔ Set up an NHS account
✔ Download and use the NHS App
✔ Order repeat prescriptions
✔ View appointments and test results
✔ Access trusted NHS health information
✔ Build your digital skills

Libraries also offer free computer access, free Wi-Fi and one-to-one support sessions in a friendly, welcoming environment.

If you need help setting up an NHS account, please bring:

📱 A mobile phone
🔢 Your NHS number

Whether you’re new to digital technology or just need a helping hand, support is available to help you access NHS services in a way that works for you.

Find out more and book a support session at your local library. See link in comments for more info.



Essex County Council

22/05/2026

Warm weather can be enjoyable, but it’s important to take care in the heat — especially if you take certain medications, including some SSRIs and antipsychotics, which can affect how the body regulates temperature.

Please remember to:

💧 Stay hydrated
🆒 Stay cool
🤝 Seek support if you need it

Hot weather can affect anyone, but older people, people with long-term health conditions, and those taking certain medications may be more vulnerable to the effects of heat.

So whether you’re heading to the Essex coast, relaxing in the garden, or making the most of the sunshine, please enjoy the warmer weather safely.

If you feel unwell or need support, speak to your GP, pharmacist or mental health team.

01/05/2026

30/04/2026

30/04/2026

📲 It's now possible for patients at all NHS hospital trusts in England to check referrals and appointments through the NHS App.

✅ Many patients can also use the app to reschedule or cancel appointments, helping cut the number of missed appointments.

More: https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/04/hospital-patients-can-now-check-appointments-in-the-nhs-app/

25/04/2026

Don’t ignore the symptoms of bowel cancer

Changes in your poo, blood in your poo, tummy pain or bloating, feeling very tired, or losing weight without trying could be signs of bowel cancer.

These symptoms are often caused by other conditions — but it’s important to get them checked.

If you’ve had symptoms for 3 weeks or more, contact your GP surgery.

Getting checked early can make a difference.

More info: https://orlo.uk/Rmyw7

19/04/2026

If you’re 50 to 74, the NHS will send you a Bowel Cancer testing kit.

Catching bowel cancer early reduces your chances of getting seriously ill from it.

Don’t leave it in the back of a drawer - return it today.

Find out more: https://orlo.uk/m2Trt