News

Community venues are opening their doors to Grenfell-affected residents, so they can receive their Enhanced health check (EHC).

These free checks, which review both your physical and mental health, are a great way to keep you and your family healthy. They typically take around half an hour, which allows time to address any health concerns you may have.

Community venues provide a warm and welcoming environment for individuals, or the whole family, to get their health checked out by a qualified professional in a safe space. 

Parents can relax, knowing that while they are getting their check, their children will be close by, happily playing with other children, or being looked after by one of the team. If parents have time, they can request that their child receives an Enhanced health check the same day. Just mention this when booking your appointment, so they can also be checked in.

We’d like to express our appreciation to everyone who has opened their doors this year to host these Enhanced health check sessions, run by the GP Federation.

Whether you wish to book a slot just for yourself or other family members, the process is the same. Please choose your date, then please send an email with your name, date of birth and contact number to: nhsnwl.grenfellenhancedhealth@nhs.net.
The service will then make contact to arrange an appointment.

Alternatively, you can call 07768 271 733 to speak to Razna (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm). Enhanced health checks are also available at your local GP practice.

Here are the community dates available this December:

We are looking for insight from women who live in NW London about women’s health and well-being services and experiences. We want to better understand the unique challenges and experiences that women face in their healthcare journeys. Share your thoughts and experiences through our survey.

Responses are confidential and the information provided will be used for NHS research purposes only. Sharing experiences will help us to understand the challenges women face in their healthcare journeys and how we can improve the quality of services for them.

Click here to complete the survey.

Please share the survey link with those it may be relevant to.

The November edition of our Insight bulletin has been published and is available here: https://campaign.emailblaster.cloud/MTgyOTc/23.html

This issue provides an update on the North Kensington Recovery team's work and engagement activities.

It also features the work Al-Hasaniya, one of our Health Partners: a sewing group run for women who are Grenfell survivors and beareaved. This organisation provides great support to Arab-speaking women within the North Kensington community.

There is also information on ACAVA Maxilla Men's Shed, a community workshop and maker space.  

The Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission (GTMC) has published a new report titled: Remembering Grenfell: Recommendations and next steps to a memorial.

The recommendations contained within this report reflect the last four years of work undertaken by the Commission to understand the Grenfell community’s wishes for a fitting memorial to all those whose lives were tragically lost in the Grenfell Tower fire in June 2017.  

GTMC’s recommendations are viewed as an important and necessary next step in taking the community’s vision for a future memorial, and then turning it into a reality.

The report is available here and translated summaries can also be accessed here: Remembering Grenfell: Recommendations and next steps to a memorial | Grenfell Tower Memorial. An audio version is also available, read by community representatives Hanan Wahabi and Susan Al-Safadi.

Mike Martin, assistant director of the North Kensington Recovery Team says:

“We welcome the publication of GTMC’s report. We hope the recommendations contained within the report will help realise a fitting and lasting memorial for the bereaved families, survivors, Lancaster West Estate residents and the immediate community.

“Whilst this is a welcome move, we recognise that there is a great deal left to do. As we move towards the final design for the Grenfell Tower memorial by spring 2026, we appreciate there may be emotional distress caused along the way.

“We recommend anyone affected by this update to seek support from the NHS Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service. You can contact the service by calling 020 8637 6279 (every day 8am to 8pm) or, if you require urgent advice, contact the CNWL Urgent Advice Line on 0800 0234 650 (available 24/7). More information can be found by visiting their website: grenfellwellbeing.cnwl.nhs.uk/ .”

Hard copies of the report can also be picked up in the following locations:

• Al Manaar Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre
• Argan Tree Cafe
• Baseline Studios
• Bay20
• ClementJames Centre
• Hope Gardens
• Kensington Aldridge Academy
• Kensington Leisure Centre 
• Kids on the Green
• Notting Hill Methodist Church
• North Kensington Library
• The Foreland Medical Centre
• The Harrow Club
• The Space
• The Tabernacle
• Westway Trust

If you have any thoughts or questions on the report itself you can contact the Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission here: Contact | Grenfell Tower Memorial

The Council is leading a consultation on the Future Grenfell Support that will be in place for the immediate local community near Grenfell Tower from 2024 to 2028. This support is for local residents, who can help to shape what it will look like, where it is delivered and how people can access it. It could look very different from what is available now, and it will be in addition to the support put in place by the NHS in the future.

Local residents can go to www.linktr.ee/grenfellcommunitysupport, where they can find more information, including details of upcoming events, FAQs, and surveys in other languages. The English version of the survey can be accessed directly here: www.bit.ly/grenfellfuturesupport.

They can also email futuregrenfellsupport@rbkc.gov.uk, or call or WhatsApp 07714 846092 to find out more.

Give your thoughts on potential service options for delivery of the new model of care for adult (18+) community-based specialist palliative care.

North West London residents are being asked to register their interest in attending an online webinar where we will be looking at future potential service options for delivery of the new model of care for adult (18+) community-based specialist palliative care. 

The proposed new model of care has been co-designed over the last year by a working group of NW London residents, along with clinicians, NHS providers and charitable hospices with the ultimate goal of making sure there is improved access to high quality services. 

We are now ready to look at what that means in practice and during the webinar we will share the various potential service options that have been developed and ask for people’s feedback and answer questions. Attendees will also have the opportunity to put forward their own suggestions of potential options to be considered if they think we have missed or not thought of something. 

Details of the potential service options will be published before the webinars so that attendees have the chance to look at and consider them before the meeting commences. 

The webinars are being held at a borough or North West London level so there is plenty of choice as to the event you can attend. The only exception is Harrow which will be delivered in partnership with Harrow Carers and is face-to-face.

If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at nhsnwl.endoflife@nhs.net.   

This weekend will see Guy Fawkes Day [Sunday 5 November] and there may be fireworks and bonfires on display during the lead up to the day and over the weekend.

This is a day that not everyone will want to participate in and for some, the sights and sounds may cause people to relive frightening feelings and memories, triggering their bodies’ fight or flight response, causing increased heart rate and heightened awareness.

It is important to be prepared for these feelings.

Learning from conversations we have had with people who have been affected in this way is that people should be aware of any local events going on in their area and decide on what they want to do. Some may want to participate, others may not and decide to take themselves away from the situation.

If you experience feelings like these please remember:

Although panic attacks are frightening, they’re not dangerous. An attack won’t cause you any physical harm and it’s unlikely that you’ll be admitted to hospital if it happens.

·        Stay where you are, if possible

·        Breathe slowly and deeply

·        Remind yourself that the attack will pass

·        Focus on positive, peaceful and relaxing images

·        Remember it isn’t life threatening.

If you find it particularly difficult, please get in touch with the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service. We can help.

You can:

Call CNWL direct on 020 863 76279 every day from 8am to 8pm

Refer yourself to CNWL service on CNWL's website www.grenfellwellbeing.com

Speak to your NHS therapist (if you are seeing or have seen someone)

If you are struggling to cope and need to talk to someone urgently call Overnight (after 8pm) please call the CNWL Urgent Advice Line on 0800 0234650

Other non-NHS support available

SHOUT – Anyone going through a crisis and needing support can text Shout to 85258

Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7 confidential support)

CALM – If you are struggling and need to talk, call 0800 585858 (5pm to midnight every day) or if you prefer not to speak on the phone, you can try the CALM Webchat service

Grenfell My Care My Way is an NHS service specifically for Grenfell-affected patients living in North Kensington aged 18-64.

A mix of health and non-health professionals, including GPs, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, and local authorities, provide a wide range of holistic healthcare support with the aim of improving the health of the community and reducing health inequalities.

Services include:

• Better Gym & Everyone Active referrals
• Community Living Well
• Continence Service
• Drug & Alcohol Support
• Employment Assistance
• Grenfell Health & Wellbeing Service
• Healthy Lifestyles
• Massage Therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Stop Smoking

Further information can be found in this leaflet. Contact your GP practice to be referred or email a member of the team: clcht.grenfellcasemanagers@nhs.net

If you know an organisation, project or individual that has benefited the lives of children and young people, Young K&C are inviting you to submit a nomination for the first ever Young K&C Achievement Award, so their work can be celebrated and showcased.

These inaugural awards are a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible achievements made by voluntary and community organisations working with children and young people across Kensington and Chelsea.

Young K&C members can be nominated for a variety of awards that cover the range of services and opportunities available to children and young people.

Nominations are open until 11:59pm on Sunday 17 December 2023: bit.ly/YKCAward

If you’re a parent or carer in Kensington & Chelsea with children aged up to 19 (or 25 with special educational needs), you are invited to join the Parent and Carer Shadow Board.

This will put you at the forefront of designing and continuously improving family services in the borough.

One of your roles will entail designing Family Hubs to ensure they are inclusive and cater to the requirements of all our families.

Email familyhubs@rbkc.gov.uk with your name and preferred contact details for more information. A crèche is available.

All Grenfell-affected residents can receive their Enhanced Health Check at a community venue, or their local GP practice.

Enhanced Health Checks are a great way for you and your family members to receive a free annual health M.O.T. They take just half an hour and can help to keep you and your family healthy as well as address any health concerns you may have. 

To book your slot simply choose your date below, then email nhsnwl.grenfellenhancedhealth@nhs.net 
with your name, date of birth and contact number. The service will then make contact to arrange an appointment. Alternatively, you can call 07768 271 733 to speak to Razna (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).

Here are the community dates available this November:

Residents of Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea are being asked for their views on the future shape of services in their boroughs for adults aged 18 to 65 with acute mental health needs.

A public consultation launched yesterday [24 October 2023] and will run for 14 weeks, concluding at the end of January 2024. Feedback from local people and the context of the wider mental health strategy for North West London will then inform decisions on how services will operate in future.

Full details of all events and engagement activities are available on the NHS North West London website – www.nwlondonicb.nhs.uk/acuteMHconsultation

It’s that time of year to get your Covid-19 and flu vaccinations. The national booking system is now open for those eligible and walk-in vaccination sites have opened up across North West London.

West London GP and vaccine lead Andrew Steeden explains:

“During the colder months, flu and Covid-19 spread more easily as we spend more time indoors. These viruses are unpleasant, but for some, particularly those with certain health conditions, older people and pregnant women, they can be very dangerous and even life-threatening, which is why it is so important to have these vaccinations.”

The NHS will invite people to book-in, but if you are eligible and you have not been contacted yet for the free vaccinations (see table) there are several ways you can get both vaccinations.

To book both your Covid-19 and flu vaccination:

• Access the online booking system 
• Use the NHS app
• If you can’t get online, call 119.

To get vaccinated without an appointment:

• Find a North West London drop-in centre for COVID-19 vaccinations here
• For flu, find a pharmacy near you offering the service. 

Check your eligibility:

If you are contacted by the NHS to have your vaccinations please come forward, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, as immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year. Those who are eligible for both may be able to have them in the same visit.

Both vaccines have a good safety record and are our best protection against flu and COVID-19. Over the last few years, they have kept tens of thousands of people out of hospital and helped to save countless lives. If you’re eligible, getting your vaccine will help protect you, as well as those close to you, over the winter months.

For more details, FAQs and eligibility information visit: www.nwlondonicb.nhs.uk/Winter
 

Every year we celebrate World Mental Health Day on 10 October.

The theme for 2023, set by the World Foundation of Mental Health, is ‘Mental health is a universal human right’.  

Achieving mental health for all doesn’t start and stop with NHS services; mental health encompasses every part of our lives; how we feel in our families, at school, work or college. That’s why, we, the NHS can’t do this alone. We need everyone to be with us.

I’m delighted to see the NHS's contribution to the nation’s mental health be heightened with the extra £2.3 billion pounds in vital funding.

I often say for mental health, a person needs: somewhere to live, something to do and someone to love. Without these three things, the impact on someone’s life can lead to a loss of purpose, feeling unsettled and feeling no one cares for them. 

When we look at supporting a person’s mental health, we need to incorporate and look at all areas of their life. Working with our partners in local authorities and the voluntary sector is imperative for this.

As Chief Executive, I’ve never felt I left the role I had as a mental health nurse, every day while you take care of our patients; a large part of my day is making sure we are taking care of you – and working in the NHS is the best job, helping many others, but also thinking about your own wellbeing.

Mental health affects us all, directly and indirectly. On World Mental Health Day, let's focus on those three qualities: somewhere to live, something to do and someone to love.

Think about your role in the NHS, how mental health effects it; are you directly looking after mental health patients or supporting patients with mental health complications from a physical health issue, and think about your own mental health.

Working together  - all staff at CNWL, in all services, with partners and in wider society, so good mental health really can be a universal human right.

Happy World Mental Health Day

Best wishes

Claire Murdoch CBE

Chief Executive, CNWL

The NHS is offering a number of sessions this month for Grenfell-affected residents to easily access a Community Enhanced Health Check, at a venue that's convenient to them and close to home.

Community Enhanced Health Checks are great if you have any concerns about your health. They can support you and your family to lead a healthier life and you should ideally have one every year - they take just half an hour of your time. They can spot early signs of health problems or any underlying health conditions, to ensure you get the help you may need at an early stage.

Simply choose your date then email nhsnwl.grenfellenhancedhealth@nhs.net 
with your name, date of birth and contact number. The service will make contact to arrange an appointment or you can call 07768 271 733 to speak to Razna (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).

More information on the Community EHCs is available here: Enhanced Health Check.

There are several additions to the parenting offer that's available to parents and families this term, including: 

• A new ante-natal workshop
• Westway’s Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities programme (run in the South of the borough)
• Reducing Parental Conflict Course
• The Doula Community.

All the courses are free. Booking details on these and the full parenting offer can be found here: 

Date and time: Monday, 2 October 2023, from 1.30pm to 3pm

Location: Online via Microsoft teams

About this event

Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster residents are invited to join this online event and respond to the proposed new model of care for community-based specialist palliative care for adults in North West London.

The new model of care builds on previous engagement, and has been co-designed over the last year by a working group of NW London residents, along with clinicians, NHS providers and charitable hospices with the ultimate goal of making sure there is improved access to high quality services.

The model covers a wide range of community-based specialist palliative care services that will help patients to stay in their own home or usual place of residence, whilst allowing them the flexibility to move to a different care setting if needed. It increases the range and number of inpatient bed care options available by introducing enhanced end-of-life care beds, for people with less complex specialist palliative care needs who still require inpatient care, on top of the existing hospice inpatient beds currently in place and projected to be required over the next five and beyond.

The model also includes an extension of a number of existing services to level-up provision and availability across all eight NW London boroughs, including:

• Extended provision of 24/7 telephone advice lines for existing and new patients
• Extended days and hours of care provision by specialist teams
• Increased support to care homes
• Expansion of Hospice at Home services to all boroughs, supporting up to 24-hour care in patients’ homes
• The introduction of new common standards for psychological and bereavement support services
• Expansion of lymphoedema services

The proposed NW London new model of care for community-based specialist palliative care can be viewed here. 

Pages 117-120 include a summary of the service improvements for Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster residents.

A summary document is available here.

A one-page summary is available here.

We are pleased that the model of care is supported by the NW London community-based specialist palliative care steering group, which includes all hospice and NHS providers of community-based specialist palliative care services in NW London.

We now want to get your views on our recommended model of care so please join our online event on Monday 2 October 2023, from 1.30pm to 3pm and have your say.

If you are not able to attend you can share your views via our survey here or you can email the team directly at nhsnwl.endoflife@nhs.net

You can find out more about the model of care and the development work completed so far on our webpage here: www.nwlondonics.nhs.uk/cspc

Click here to register by 5pm on Friday 29 September 2023 and we will share an email link to the meeting ahead of the event.

Back to News

The September issue of the North Kensington Recovery e-newsletter is now available. Insight contains lots of useful updates on health services and the support being provided in North Kensington.

In this month's issue we hear from Mike Martin, the new lead for the North Kensington Recovery Team, as well as providing updates on a range of other topics, including:

• Supporting a community-led recovery
• Primary care and health information
• Updates from our partners:
  - Al-Manaar Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre
  - FAWA
• NEW Cultural Competency film

See September's issue of Insight.

If you have any questions about the information in Insight or any other subject please email nhsnwl.nkrt@nhs.net. 

This annual campaign, run by NHS England and timed for the Autumn term return to school, encourages simple changes to children and young people’s care that will make a big difference to how they experience their asthma.

The four main steps include having getting an asthma action plan in place, learning how to use asthma inhalers correctly, having an annual review and considering the impact of air pollution on health. More resources can be found on the #AskAboutAsthma 2023 campaign webpage.

Tate Britain has commissioned British artist Chris Ofili to create artwork for the very large walled area around one of the main stairwells in the building. 

The piece is called Requiem and is a dream-like mural painted directly onto the walls, so is likely be there for some time. 

Chris Ofili wanted to pay tribute to fellow artist Khadija Saye – one of the 72 people who died in the Tower Fire.  They met while they were both exhibiting in Venice in May 2017, shortly before the fire. In remembering Khadija he creates a powerful visual which holds an image of her front and centre as a “powerful creative force of transformation”.

The work has been developed following conversations over a number of years with Khadija’s family, as well as other survivors and bereaved. Khadija’s family have already had a private viewing to see the piece and other survivors and  bereaved visited last weekend. They have all been supported by specialist teams from CNWL, who provide the Grenfell Health & Wellbeing service to the Grenfell-affected community.

Mike Martin, Associate Director for the North Kensington Recovery (NKR) team says: “We recognise the response to the work might be triggering and stir powerful emotions in some people, especially those directly affected by the Grenfell Tower Fire tragedy.

“We want to remind the Grenfell-affected community that the NHS is here for you and you can contact the Grenfell Health & Wellbeing Service on 020 8637 6279 (everyday 8am to 8pm) if you need specialist support.^.”

NHS North West London ICS and the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service are united in sending their thoughts and prayers to the people of Morocco and all those affected by the devastating earthquake.

North Kensington has one of the largest Moroccan communities in the U.K, and we know many people will be worried for loved ones and deeply affected by the unfolding events.

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service remains here for those impacted by the fire and if you have been affected by the earthquake in Morocco and need emotional support please call the number below:

Tel: 020 8637 6279 (Everyday 8am to 8pm)

There are a range of activities available for parents and their children across all age groups being held throughout the North Kensington area between September and November.

These range from baby & toddler groups to groups supporting teens and children whose siblings have autism. There are also specific groups supporting parents with behaviour and diet (Change4Life), a Dads Matter programme, as well as mindfulness sessions and groups for parents with autistic children.https://www.grenfell.nhs.uk/download_file/view/555/214

.

Healthwatch RBKC and Healthwatch Westminster want to understand the mental health needs and the gaps in mental health services for young people aged 18-25 and are asking for their views.

This includes young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

Young people who respond to this survey have a chance to be selected to receive a £50 Love2Shop voucher: https://www.healthwatchrbkc.org.uk/form/young-people-s-mental-health

Healthwatch RBKC and Healthwatch Westminster are also recruiting young people for a paid opportunity to participate in a mental health focus group discussion in September/October.

The findings will be presented in a report, which will be shared with local authorities, NHS, the NKR community and other key stakeholders.

Mike Martin has been appointed as the new Assistant Director for the North Kensington Recovery programme.

Mike has been part of the North Kensington Recovery team for the past three years, helping Mary Mullix to lead the team.

He has written to the community to say he is committed to building on the vital ‘Supporting a community-led recovery’ work that the team started before Mary’s retirement.

He set out the key goals as being:

1.      Strengthening our communication;

2.      Making sure we are guided by the community's voice;

3.      Delivering the North Kensington health programme for 2024-2029.

He says: "Your feedback is a crucial part of shaping the next steps of our health recovery programme. We recently invited you to share your thoughts through a brief survey and we hope you will all take this opportunity to share your views.

"In the upcoming weeks, I want to meet with community groups and individuals in North Kensington. It will be a chance for me to introduce myself and - more importantly - to understand your perspectives and aspirations, so we can build our health future together."

If you live or work in the North Kensington area and are affected by the Grenfell Tower fire we want to hear from you, to help us shape the services you want.

You are invited to click here to complete this short survey.

In the coming weeks we will also be out and about in the community, actively engaging with you, so we can hear your views in person.

Here are the answers to some of your frequently asked questions. We will keep adding to this page as we hear more of your views.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Bank holidays can affect the opening hours of local pharmacies and the next one is Monday 28 August 2023.

We have published a table of pharmacies that will be open over the bank holiday on our ICB website. Click here for details 

Face to face advice and guidance drop in sessions are being held at Lancaster West session for young people receiving their GCSE results today.

These free sessions have been set up by TPT for young people who may need some extra advice on exploring their future study or career options.

The drop in sessions are available from 10am until 5pm (24 August 2023).

The GCSE support services includes:

•   Face to face drop in service between 10am – 5pm.
•   Advice and guidance around post 16 pathways, Education and Training opportunities.
•   Up to date information regarding college late enrolments.
•   Support around GCSE results appeal process.
•   Telephone helpline 07714 563247 direct to Senior TPT Practitioner.
•   Ongoing helpline service on Friday 24^th August via telephone.

There is also a wealth of information on apprenticeship and job opportunities available here

As we head towards the end of the summer and the usual busy September period, we wanted to take this opportunity to update on some significant changes in the North Kensington Team that is providing support to those affected by the Grenfell Tower fire.

We will sadly be saying farewell to Dr Meena Nathan and Dr Oisin Brannick from their North Kensington Recovery clinical lead roles. Both of them have been an integral part of the recovery programme work since the fire over six years ago and have supported the community in their practices both before and since the night of the tragedy. They have provided expertise, guidance and insights into how we best support the Grenfell impacted community recovery.

They have always made themselves available to both team members and the community and have consistently gone above and beyond in their personal commitment. Fortunately, they will both be continuing as GPs in their practices and will therefore continue to work with the community in that capacity. We would like thank them both for their contributions and positive impact.

We are delighted to have recently appointed Dr Amy Wheelwright, who will focus on the links between physical and respiratory health. We are also planning to appoint another GP clinical lead in the near future.

 Mary Mullix, who has been the Director of North Kensington Recovery since 2019, will be retiring from September 2023.  Mary’s leadership and clinical insights has been invaluable over these last four years that have necessitated navigation through to yet more unprecedented events. This included steering the programme successfully through the Covid-19 pandemic and the recovery response, public inquiry, CCG changes and challenging media stories and fallout. We have been very fortunate to have Mary at the helm, bringing with her not only her calm, proficient, inclusive and compassionate management but also her years of experience as an effective clinical leader working with communities.

Mary has worked in the NHS for nearly forty years – starting out as student nurse in 1984 at Great Ormond Street Hospital and since then has held a variety of clinical and managerial roles returning to NW London in 2014, as the Deputy Director for Quality and Patient Safety for the then CWHHE Collaboration of CCGs.

Mary has always been someone the system and residents can rely on; this is clearly evident in her many roles over the years. We want to thank Mary for her many years of service within and for the NHS and most recently the work she has been doing in North Kensington where she will be very sorely missed by the team, partners and the community. We wish her every success and happiness in this next phase of life.   Michael Martin has been appointed as the interim Assistant Director for the North Kensington Recovery programme.

Changes to the Executive and leadership team with the ICB also mean that Janet Cree will be moving into a new role as Director of Clinical Programmes in October. This necessitates her place based role, including the oversight for North Kensington Recovery Programme, transferring to other directors ahead of an Executive Director of Place being appointed.  Rob Hurd will retain overall leadership and personal oversight for the North Kensington Recovery Programme and this will be supported by his executive team. We would like to thank Janet for her leadership and direction over the last two and a half years.

As we plan for the next phase of the programme, working closely with NHS England and our partners, we will ensure that we continue to meet the needs of the community both in terms of health, wellbeing and monitoring. It is therefore timely that we also review the programme team functions and form as part of the NHS North West London organisational design work that is currently underway. 

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch with us by emailing nhsnwl.nkrt@nhs.net.

The NHS is keen to work with the North Kensington community to decide how best to support their future long-term health and wellbeing needs as we seek to move to a community-led recovery.

This follows the NHS’s recent statement confirming its ongoing commitment to supporting the survivors, bereaved and the wider Grenfell impacted community now and into the future.

Krishna Sarda, Head of Engagement at North Kensington said: “We have been listening to what the local community have said and the feedback has been clear. They want to have a more of a say in what health and wellbeing support is provided and they want to play a leading role as the community builds for the future.”

In the coming weeks we will be actively engaging with the community, so we can hear from people in person. People who prefer to share there views online are invited to fill in an online survey to help inform their needs.

Click here to find out further information and complete the survey.

Future health service provision will also be informed by a wider piece of work jointly being carried out with the Kensington and Chelsea Council to assess the wider issues that impact on residents’ health within North Kensington for example housing and employment.

We will also be seeking independent external advice on what best practice looks like and looking at existing provision to see if it providing the care and support that is needed or if changes are needed.

Community engagement on needs has been ongoing, with the recent publication of the Health & Wellbeing Strategy review, which updated the original Health & Wellbeing Strategy (September 2020), the result of engaging with the views of 1,300 members of the community. 

A range of supportive health and wellbeing services were set up in addition to this Continuing Professional Development (CDP)-accredited Cultural Competency training was developed, endorsed by the Royal College of GPs (RCGP) and co-produced with the community. This training is being delivered to GP practices throughout the North Kensington area and is increasingly being recognised as ground-breaking, trauma-informed work.

If you have any questions, please email nhsnwl.nkrt@nhs.net

Online personal support is now available for people who are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, thanks to the new ‘Preventing Diabetes’ website.

The NHS in North West London has launched the website to help the 200,000 people who are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the area.

GP and diabetes lead Dr Tony Willis explains: “We know that patients may feel overwhelmed when they are told they are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. They are often given a blood glucose reading or a high blood pressure reading from their GP and advised to make some lifestyle changes. For many they leave this conversation not really knowing what to do next and how to make real changes to improve their health. This is where the new www.preventingdiabetes.org.uk website can help.”

Across NW London patients who have had a recent blood test result that shows they could be at risk of developing type 2 diabetes (called non-diabetic hyperglycaemia) will be invited to use the new website. (Anyone who would like support or is worried about developing type 2 diabetes is also welcome to go directly to the website and join.

After registering, patients will be able to see a personalised healthcare dashboard, displaying their latest blood results, including blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood glucose.

The dashboard will offer advice what is good, improving or getting worse in terms of health and prevention of type 2 diabetes.

Support is then available on the site including: educational courses, meal plans and day-to-day advice to help patients understand how to go about making positive long-term changes.

Dr Willis continues: “It is much better for patients and their overall health to make changes before developing diabetes, which is why we want to support as many people as possible.”

NW London residents will be able to access two eLearning courses to start their journey.

1. The first course is called ‘Introduction to type 2 prevention.’ An introduction to type 2 diabetes prevention. It provides people at risk and their carers the information they need to understand their risk of developing type 2 diabetes, explaining what a diagnosis means, and the steps they can take to prevent it from developing into type 2 diabetes.
2. The follow-on course, ‘Understanding high risk of type 2,’ covers the diet and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, along with advice and support on how to make changes.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Type 2 risk factors:

• Age and ethnicity: If you're over 40 and white, or over 25 and African-Caribbean, Black-African, Arab, Chinese, or South Asian.
• Family history of diabetes: You're two to six times more likely to get type 2 diabetes if you have a parent, brother, sister, or child with diabetes.
• Weight: You're more at risk of type 2 diabetes if you're living with obesity or overweight.
• Waist measurement: Your risk is also increased if you have a high waist measurement.
• Blood pressure: If you've ever had high blood pressure, this increases your risk.
• Ethnicity: Type 2 diabetes is two to four times more likely in people of South Asian descent and African-Caribbean or Black African descent.
• Sex: Type 2 diabetes is slightly more common in men than in women

For people who are already living with diabetes you can find support on our ‘Know Diabetes’ website, which is already helping thousands of residents across NW London.

North Kensington teenagers aged 16-19* who are not in education, employment or education and need guidance on their future options are invited to go along to informal advice and guidance drop in sessions, to see what courses, jobs and training are available.

These sessions are offered as bespoke one to one careers advice and training, with interactive workshops and training also available.

The twice weekly sessions are currently being held at:

Monday 10am to 4pm Lancaster Youth Hub – 128A Lancaster road, W11 1QS

Thursday 10am to 4pm Chelsea Youth Hub – Blantyre Street, SW10 0EQ

These courses are also available to young people aged up to age 25 years old with SEND or an active EHCP. 

Young people can also attend confidence building workshops, which will run on Tuesday 8th and Thursday 10th August.

If you'd like to attend these sessions the team is contactable via email: targetedprevention@rbkc.gov.uk

The NHS in North West London has launched a new campaign to explain how general practice is changing and why you may see a different clinical expert in future – depending on your need.

Dr Genevieve Small, Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS North West London said: “General Practices are busier than ever. It is important that we use all the team to help support our patients and communities with their care. By providing you with the right care at the right time we can ensure that your local General Practice is there to meet your need.

“To do this, practices are working as a team of medical experts and support staff, led and supervised by the GP. There are new members of staff and systems in place to support GPs to look after your needs.”

A short film introduces you to some of the medical experts, such as a GP, nurse, pharmacist and social prescriber, that you may be given an appointment to see.

Dr Small, added: “These are very exciting times for general practice. We are increasingly seeing a wider range of knowledgeable clinical experts with specialist training who can provide bespoke care to our patients in the same building as their GP.

“For example, if you have diabetes, you may see a specialist diabetes nurse or if you have a problem with your bones and joints, you may see a physiotherapist.”

You can find out more about ‘We are General Practice’ by visiting www.nwlondonics.nhs.uk/wearegeneralpractice

The August edition of Grenfell Insight, our e-newsletter for the North Kensington community and voluntary sector and other stakeholders has been published.

Click here to view the e-newletter

If you have any questions please email nhsnwl.nkrt@nhs.net

Data published by the UKHSA on 14 July shows there has been a steady rise in measles cases this year. A new risk assessment also reveals the potential for a measles resurgence, particularly in London.

Between 1 January and 30 June this year there have been 128 cases of measles, compared to 54 cases in the whole of 2022, with 66 per cent of the cases detected in London although cases have been seen in all regions.

The UKHSA assessment finds the risk of a measles epidemic across the UK is considered low. However, with lower current levels of coverage in London, a measles outbreak of between 40,000 and 160,000 cases could occur in the capital.

The assessment also concludes that there is a high risk of cases linked to overseas travel leading to outbreaks in specific population groups such as young people and under-vaccinated communities.

The risk in London is primarily due to low vaccination rates over several years, further impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in some areas and groups where coverage is as low as 65.4%.

Parents should check their children are fully vaccinated with 2 MMR doses, which gives 99% life-long protection, by checking their red book or with their GP practice, which younger and older adults can also do; and if necessary make an appointment as soon as possible.

Achieving high vaccination coverage across the population, “herd immunity”, is important as it indirectly helps protect very young infants (under one) and other vulnerable groups.

It’s vital all children and adults catch up on any missed vaccinations and this is especially important if travelling overseas this summer.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist said:

“Measles can be a serious infection that can lead to complications especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems. Due to longstanding sub-optimal vaccine uptake there is now a very real risk of seeing big outbreaks in London.

“Measles spreads very easily but is preventable. To help protect ourselves, our families and those around us it is vital we all ensure we are vaccinated with 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, free on the NHS whatever your age. Parents can check their children’s red book to see if they are up to date or if you’re not sure anyone can call their GP practice. It’s important everyone is fully vaccinated before travelling overseas this summer.

“Nobody wants to see their child or loved ones sick with measles, or put others who are more vulnerable, like babies, at risk. I urge those who have missed their MMR vaccines to catch-up now.”

NHS England has launched a targeted national campaign to encourage uptake of the MMR vaccine, including targeted outreach work in London for those identified as at high risk and communities with the lowest uptake of vaccination.

In London, a polio and MMR catch-up campaign targeting un-or-partially-vaccinated children aged 1 to 11 years was rolled out at the end of March through GP practices, primary schools and community vaccination clinics.

All children at primary school who have missed one or both doses of the MMR vaccine are being offered the opportunity to get up to date at school. Parents of those children will be contacted by the NHS school immunisation service. For those children who are home schooled, are not yet old enough for school or have another reason not to get up to date in school, parents can make an appointment with their GP practice or visit a community clinic.

Jane Clegg, Regional Chief Nurse for the NHS in London said: 

“Measles can easily spread between unvaccinated people and can be serious, but it is preventable, which is why we continue to encourage Londoners to take up the vaccine – with GPs calling over 10,000 parents of unvaccinated children, and hundreds booking appointments to get vaccinated as a result.

“Cases of measles in the capital remain low but it’s really important that people check that they, and their children, are up to date with their jabs and protected against MMR – and if you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with your GP practice or local pharmacist for advice. Now’s the time to act to protect yourself and loved ones from measles.”  

Current MMR vaccine coverage in the NHS routine childhood programme is the lowest it has been in a decade. The WHO 95% vaccine coverage target is set to prevent outbreaks among populations. In England coverage of 2 MMR doses at age 5 years is around 85%, with about 10% of children in the country left unprotected from measles by the time they are ready to start school, with the rate in London at about 20%.

England’s top NHS doctor Professor Sir Stephen Powis has called on people eligible for a covid jab to book an appointment before the end of the month.

The NHS Covid-19 Vaccination Programme's spring campaign will end on Friday 30 June and it will be the last day anyone due a spring booster or yet to have a first or second dose will be able to get one.

The fastest and largest vaccine drive in NHS history has vaccinated more than 4.2 million people with a spring booster – around two thirds of all those eligible – since the campaign began two months ago.

A total of 149 million covid vaccines have now been delivered across England, including more than 50 million first doses.

Anyone due a jab should book an appointment online as soon as possible – there are more than 250,000 appointment slots available next week.

Around 6.6 million are eligible in line with advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), which includes people aged 75 and over, people aged five and over with weakened immune systems and older adult care home residents.

With the vaccination offer set to end until any future campaign is announced by the JCVI and Government, the NHS' top doctor has urged those yet to come forward to do so this week and ensure they have the maximum protection from covid over the coming weeks and months.

NHS Medical Director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said: "With the NHS’ life-saving vaccination campaign winding down for spring, now is the last chance for those eligible to come forward for a booster, or get a first or second dose, as we move to a targeted, seasonal campaign.

"If you are due a jab, please book an appointment within the next week - it will give you protection for the coming months and peace of mind through until winter."

Spring vaccinations are being offered to those at greatest risk, in line with JCVI advice.

Those invited should make sure their appointment takes place at least three months since their last dose.

Bookings for spring vaccinations and for first and second doses can be made online at www.nhs.uk/COVIDvaccine, by downloading the NHS App or by calling 119 for free. The last bookings can be made until Thursday 29th June, although some sites are offering walk-in options on Friday 30th June.

Anyone who believes they should be eligible for a vaccine but does not get invited can check online. Alternatively, they can self-declare via the National Booking Service and then speak to a clinician on site.

The offer of two Covid-19 vaccinations for everyone who was aged 5 on or before 31 August 2022 will also end after 30th June, following advice from the JCVI.

After 30 June, the NHS offer will become more targeted to those at increased risk and most will have to wait until a future seasonal campaign. For those who develop a new health condition or start treatment that severely weakens their immune system, an exception may be made if a clinician advises them to get vaccinated sooner.

It’s important to register with a dentist to help keep your mouth, teeth and gums in a healthy condition. Looking after your oral health also helps your general health.

We have created a list of dentists accepting NHS registrations in Hammersmith and Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea, as well as Westminster.  You can find an updated list here.

For other boroughs please use the ‘find a dentist tool’.

You can also find about NHS dentistry costs and bandings. You might be entitled to support towards these changes depending on your personal circumstances.

A review of the Health & Wellbeing Strategy for North Kensington is now available.

 This follows a period of extensive engagement with survivors, bereaved, the wider community and our Health Partners, building on the original Health & Wellbeing Strategy (2020). Although much has happened there is still much to do.

Cultural Competency is one area where the community’s valuable insight has resulted in additional training to support general practice staff, this has been recognised as good practice.

Following the latest engagement, we want to make sure that future service delivery is community driven and evidence-led, so plan to:

• Provide additional primary care services to support the Grenfell affected community; these include Enhanced Health Checks & Grenfell-related appointment
• Consult with children and young people directly with regard to their health and wellbeing, to gain additional valuable insight into their health needs and how they can be addressed. A peer to peer support group is in the process of being set up.
• Continue to support Healthier Futures ‘Self-care’ services*, to support individuals and families. These services are regularly reviewed to make sure they are well used and meet the health and wellbeing needs of the community.

Mary Mullix, NKR’s director says: “The NHS is committed to the development of community resilience and recovery.

“This latest review reaffirms the NHS’s commitment to listening to, hearing from and acting to meeting the needs of survivors, bereaved and the wider community now and in the future.

“We have listened to people’s concerns and the points they have made and would like to express our thanks to the community, as well as our Health Partners, for their valuable insight.

“Looking ahead, we plan to ensure cultural competency is placed at the heart of service planning and delivery.”

Future health service provision will also be informed by engaging with and listening to community groups, as well as using information from the Grenfell Joint Strategic Needs Assessment. It will take into consideration:

• The expressed views of the North Kensington communities including survivors and bereaved
• The wider issues that impact on residents’ health within North Kensington, for example housing and economic factors
• Consider best practice from disaster recovery literature
• Critique and challenge existing provision and guidance on future services.

NHS North West London would like to express our continuing and deepest condolences - both personally and on behalf of the NHS - to everyone in the community affected by the terrible events at Grenfell Tower on 14 June 2017. 

The NHS acknowledges the ongoing impact of the disaster on the community, our thoughts are with you all today on this sad anniversary.

NHS North West London

Health issues related to the current warm weather are causing our A&Es to be busier than usual, with waits of up to 11 hours in A&Es at the moment.

A&E is for life threatening emergencies.  There are lots of NHS services that can help you. Knowing where to go, and when, will help you get the right care when you need it.

Your local high street pharmacy can provide advice and over the counter medication to help with hayfever.  You can also contact your GP surgery or call 111 when your GP is closed.

[Read more here]

Health issues related to the current warm weather are causing our A&Es to be busier than usual, with waits of up to 11 hours in A&Es at the moment.

A&E is for life threatening emergencies.  There are lots of NHS services that can help you. Knowing where to go, and when, will help you get the right care when you need it.

Your local high street pharmacy can provide advice and over the counter medication to help with hayfever.  You can also contact your GP surgery or call 111 when your GP is closed.

[Read more here]

In this warm weather, when we also have a very high pollen count at the moment, make sure you follow our top tips to prevent yourself becoming unwell.

Tips for coping in hot weather

• Keep out of the heat if you can.
• If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
• Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
• Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down.

Tips if hot weather sets off your asthma

• Keep taking your regular preventer inhaler so you’re less likely to get symptoms. And carry your reliever inhaler with you at all times so you’re ready if symptoms do come on.
• Go for regular asthma reviews to check you’re on the right meds for you, and you’re taking your inhalers in the best way to get the benefits through the summer months.
• Use your written asthma action plan so you know what to do if hot weather triggers symptoms.
• If you’re using your reliever inhaler three or more times a week, or you’ve noticed the hot weather’s made your symptoms worse, book an extra catch-up with your doctor or asthma nurse.
• Keep inhalers in a cool place out of direct sunlight so they continue to work well. Try keeping your reliever in a cool bag when you’re out and about on a hot day. Don't add any ice to the bag though, because your inhaler needs to be kept dry.
• Keep an eye on pollen forecasts and find out more about why staying on top of your hay fever symptoms with antihistamines is good for your asthma too.
• Plan any outdoor activities for earlier in the day when the air quality tends to be better, including exercise.

Tips if you have hayfever

• Your local high street pharmacy can help with advice and over the counter medicine around hayfever.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes
• Shower and change your clothes after you have been outside to wash pollen off
• Stay indoors whenever possible and keep windows and doors shut as much as possible
• Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth

• do not cut grass or walk on grass or keep fresh flowers in the house
• do not smoke or be around smoke – it makes your symptoms worse
• do not dry clothes outside – they can catch pollen

  [Read more here]

  In this warm weather, when we also have a very high pollen count at the moment, make sure you follow our top tips to prevent yourself becoming unwell.

  Tips for coping in hot weather

• Keep out of the heat if you can.
• If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
• Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
• Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down.

• Tips if hot weather sets off your asthma

• Keep taking your regular preventer inhaler so you’re less likely to get symptoms. And carry your reliever inhaler with you at all times so you’re ready if symptoms do come on.
• Go for regular asthma reviews to check you’re on the right meds for you, and you’re taking your inhalers in the best way to get the benefits through the summer months.
• Use your written asthma action plan so you know what to do if hot weather triggers symptoms.
• If you’re using your reliever inhaler three or more times a week, or you’ve noticed the hot weather’s made your symptoms worse, book an extra catch-up with your doctor or asthma nurse.
• Keep inhalers in a cool place out of direct sunlight so they continue to work well. Try keeping your reliever in a cool bag when you’re out and about on a hot day. Don't add any ice to the bag though, because your inhaler needs to be kept dry.
• Keep an eye on pollen forecasts and find out more about why staying on top of your hay fever symptoms with antihistamines is good for your asthma too.
• Plan any outdoor activities for earlier in the day when the air quality tends to be better, including exercise.

• Tips if you have hayfever

• Your local high street pharmacy can help with advice and over the counter medicine around hayfever.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes
• Shower and change your clothes after you have been outside to wash pollen off
• Stay indoors whenever possible and keep windows and doors shut as much as possible
• Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth
• do not cut grass or walk on grass or keep fresh flowers in the house
• do not smoke or be around smoke – it makes your symptoms worse
• do not dry clothes outside – they can catch pollen

You have the right to make a complaint about any aspect of NHS care, treatment or service, and this is written into the NHS Constitution on GOV.UK. 

From 1 July 2023 the way members of the public make a complaint about primary care services to the commissioner is changing.  

By primary care services we mean GPs, dentists, opticians or pharmacy services. 

There are two ways you can make a complaint: 

• You can complain to the healthcare provider: this is the organisation where you received the NHS service, for example a GP surgery or dental surgery.   
• You can complain to the commissioner of the service: this is the organisation that paid for the service or care you received. 

After 1 July 2023 if you want to make a complaint about primary care services to the commissioner you will now contact NHS North West London instead of NHS England.  

You can do this by:

Telephone: 020 3350 4567 (This is an automated service. Please leave a message requesting a call back).

E-mail: nhsnwl.complaints@nhs.net

Writing to us at: Complaints Manager, NHS North West London, 15 Marylebone Road, London NW1 5JD

If you want to make a complaint directly to the provider of the primary care service, you still can – that does not change on the 1 July 2023. 

Members of the public with ongoing complaints received on/after 1 July 2022 will receive a letter from NHS England informing them that NHS North West London is now handling their complaint with confirmation of their case handler. 

Members of the public with any ongoing complaints received before 1 July 2022 will receive a letter from NHS England informing them that their complaint is being retained by NHS England with confirmation of their case handler. 

If you have any queries, please contact email nhsnwl.complaints@nhs.net

Find out more about how to feedback or make a complaint about an NHS service 

The NHS is delivering a service leaflet to 33,000 homes and businesses across North Kensington to advertise the full range of NHS health and wellbeing services that are available to the community.

Many of you are aware that the NHS has been providing services to the Grenfell-affected community for nearly six years. As we approach the six year anniversary, this is a timely reminder to everyone living or working in North Kensington who has been affected by the Grenfell Tower fire that “the NHS is here for you”.

The community may see posters with a large green heart popping up around the local area advertising this message, which lists contact numbers for the following services:

·        Community Enhanced Health Checks

·        Dedicated Service helpline

·        Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Services.

The latter is provided by Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust through the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service.

A separate specific poster advertises Enhanced Health Checks to everyone. EHCs are regularly reviewed and this one is the first update following the appointment of a new respiratory lead called Dr Laura Martin.

Mary Mullix, Director of the North Kensington Recovery team says: “The NHS is committed to supporting all your health needs.

“As we approach the six year anniversary we want to remind the community through our service leaflets and posters that the ‘NHS is here for you’. We are door dropping the leaflet to make sure everyone has the details close to hand.

“We also want the community to have quick access to the numbers available in case they’re in need of support when they’re out and about and want to talk to someone – look out for the large green heart posters to signpost you to these important numbers.

“The other poster you may see promotes awareness of Enhanced Health Checks (EHCs), which everyone is entitled to. Appointments can be booked in a location near to you and they’re a great way to get a ‘health M.O.T’ as well as being the ideal opportunity to discuss with a health professional any health concerns you may have.”

Youth Action Alliance (YAA) is inviting families and people of all ages to their fun, free 'One Heart' annual festival on 17 June 2023, being held at the Westway Sports Centre on Crowthorne Road.  

The One Heart festival (formerly known as the North Kensington Youth & Community Festival) was set up in 2017 following the tragic loss of two of YAA’s young members in the Grenfell fire.

Last year over 4,000 people attended this special event, which aims to upift and unite everyone in the Grenfell community, as well as pay tribute to the victims of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. 

The festival trail is divided into 9 zones, with a range of activities to suit all ages including: 

• sports tournaments including football and basketball

• a talent show featuring special guest performances 

• play area for children including funfair rides and bouncy castle

• arts and crafts for all

• youth zone including gaming bus

• elder zone, including Bingo and afternoon tea.

The NHS's Grenfell Health & Wellbeing service is represented in the Pamper Pit and more details on all the health services on offer will be available soon.

For more details on this festival visit: www.youthactionalliance.org/oneheart

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service is holding an Open Day at St Charlies Hospital on Tuesday 23 May, from 1pm to 7pm. Everyone in the community is welcome to attend.

A variety of health and wellbeing taster sessions are available from 4pm-7pm - residents are welcome to pop in to sample these to see what might work for them.

The CNWL Recruitment Team is also on hand from 1pm to 4pm to provide advice and help on job opportunities, career pathways, improving your CV and preparing for job interviews. 

Refreshments are available throughout the day and a raffle will be called at 6pm.

For more information visit www.grenfellwellbeing.com

The Dalgrano Trust is looking for individuals who are confident with their digital skills to volunteer their time to help others and become a Digital Champion. Training will be provided.

To get involved please call 02008 9696300 or send an email to Rosana (rosana@dalgarnotrust.org.uk) or Samir (samir@dalgarnotrust.org.uk). 

For more information on this and all the other volunteering opportunities available through the Kensington & Chelsea Social Council visit: https://www.kcsc.org.uk

Community eye services allow patients to be seen away from the hospital, and can help people manage their conditions. We want to improve the service we provide for patients across north west London, and we need your input.

Please take 5-10 minutes to complete the survey and tell us how the current service is working for you and what might make it work better: https://form.jotform.com/230304388075353

Bank Holidays can affect the opening hours of local pharmacies. The attached table provides the opening hours for pharmacies in North West London which have been asked to open over the May 2023 bank holidays of Monday 1, Monday 8 and Monday 29 May 2023.

There may be additional pharmacies opening which are not listed. If the pharmacy you would like to visit is not listed here, then you can check their opening hours by searching at www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-pharmacy or by calling NHS 111.

In addition, there will be some pharmacies who normally open who may be closed or closing early on Saturday 29 April, Saturday 6 May and Saturday 27 May 2023. 

If you are unsure please visit 'find a pharmacy' or call NHS 111.

Martin Machray, Executive Director of Performance, NHS England (London region) and Rob Hurd, Chief Executive Officer, NHS North West London, provide a statement outlining the NHS's commitment to supporting the survivors, bereaved and the wider Grenfell impacted community now and into the future.  

Webinar: Preparing for Healthy Eating Week
Wednesday 24 May, 4.00pm to 5.00pm
Also available ‘on demand’. Please register to access the video recording. 
Book here: https://healtheducationpartnership.com/all-events/change4life-682/

Introduction to key messages around healthy eating and oral health
Thursday 8 June, 3.30pm to 5.30 pm
Book here: https://healtheducationpartnership.com/all-events/753/

We also have a NEW course for health practitioners… 

Talking about health and weight (for health practitioners)
Thursday 22 June, 9.30am to 4.30pm
Book here: https://healtheducationpartnership.com/all-events/change4life-634/

For the full list please see the training calendar attached or visit our website at https://healtheducationpartnership.com/change4life-training/

Steve McQueen’s Grenfell exhibition, which was filmed in the months following the fire that broke out in Grenfell Tower on 14 July 2017, is now open to the public.

This night resulted in tragic loss of life and as we approach the six-year anniversary, we are aware that this community remains bereft by their loss.    

We know that many survivors and bereaved living in this community have been attending preview screenings and for some this has been really challenging. However we also acknowledge that the exhibition will have different meanings for different people and people may experience a range of different emotions and thoughts in response to it.  

If you are affected by Grenfell and would like support the NHS is here for you.

If you or someone you know needs support this bank holiday weekend, please call the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing service on 020 8637 6729 (8am-8pm Friday and Monday & 9am-8pm Saturday and Sunday) or email us at Grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net.

Please note that in an emergency scenario, when someone’s life is at risk, the NHS advice remains to call 999 immediately.

From 7am on Tuesday 11 April to 6:59am on Saturday 15 April there is strike action taking place by junior doctors at most NHS Trusts, including hospitals in North West London.

Junior doctors are fully trained doctors with up to eight years of experience – they account for around 50% of doctors working in the NHS. This means that NHS services will be under a huge amount of pressure leading up to, and during the strike. Hospitals will be doing everything they can to keep disruption to a minimum and ensure the safety of patients.

Planned tests and hospital appointments may need to be changed or rearranged so that patients who need urgent or emergency care can be treated as soon as possible. If you have not been contacted, please still attend your appointment as planned.

It is important that patients who do need urgent medical care continue to come forward. If you are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, you should still attend A&E or call 999.

For non-emergency health needs, you should access the alternative NHS services available to you:

• NHS 111: Fully trained health professionals are available, 24/7, to help if you need medical help or advice, or you are unsure about whether you should go to hospital. You can contact NHS 111 online, or by calling 111.
• Your GP: The majority of practices in north west London will remain open during the strike, though many will be under increased pressure. Do continue to attend your GP and dental appointments unless you have been contacted and told otherwise.
• Pharmacy: Pharmacists are trained health professionals who can help with your medication questions and minor health concerns. Many offer private consultations without an appointment, and can advise where to get further help if you need it.

In this video, hear from Charlotte Benjamin, NHS North West London Chief Medical Officer, on how these strikes will impact NHS services in north west London, and what you can do to access the help you need.

By considering which service to go to, you’re helping NHS staff make sure that you, and so many others, can get the right support as soon as possible.

During the Easter Bank Holiday, from Friday 7^th – Monday 10^th April, your local pharmacy may be closed or have different opening hours. The list below provides the opening hours for pharmacies in North West London which have been asked to open over this period.

There may be additional pharmacies opening which are not listed. If the pharmacy you usually go to is not listed here, you can check their opening hours by contacting NHS 111 or visiting: www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-pharmacy 

In addition, there will be some pharmacies who normally open who may be closed or closing early on Saturday 8th April 2023. If you are unsure please contact NHS 111 online or oer the phone, or visit www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-pharmacy.

Easter Bank Holiday opening hours:

A video on family therapy, which is offered by the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service.

In the video, a service user from the Grenfell community says that family therapy has been “invaluable” in helping him and his partner to overcome challenges they faced.

It’s immensely helped us to understand each other, both as individuals and as a couple,” says the service user.

The video explores how family therapy may be beneficial for the Grenfell community, and its families, as well as how to get in touch.

Family therapy offers a chance to come together, to understand one another and find different ways to communicate and help each other to overcome and cope with difficulties.

We understand that family means different things to different people. So whether that means you and your partner, you and your siblings, you and your parents or you and your extended family, we can help.

For more information you can download and read our leaflet. Speak to your GP or school, phone: 020 8637 6279 or email: grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net

Other available support

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service offers a range of holistic and practical support to people affected by the Grenfell Tower fire, including talking and creative therapies for individuals and families, groups for children and young people, older people and Arabic-speaking women, and community-based workshops and events, led by the community or hosted in partnership with it.

Please see our website for more information or get in touch.

Most NHS treatment is free at the point of use. This means you don’t need to worry about paying when using many our services. However, there are some treatment areas where most residents might need to make a payment.

These NHS areas are: prescriptions; the dentist; sight tests; glasses or contact lenses; wigs;  fabric supports – things like surgical bras, support tights and spinal supports; and travel for treatment.

However, it is important to know that you might be able to get help and pay less, or nothing at all, depending on your circumstances.

Complete this health checker to see if you could get help with NHS costs. It takes less than three minutes!

A new NHS campaign is encouraging more men to be more aware of their risk of developing prostate cancer. This is a cancer that affects one in eight men, with black men at greater risk.

Symptoms of the cancer may include a difficulty in starting to urinate or emptying the bladder, needing to urinate more (especially at night), or a sudden need to urinate.

This is a type of cancer that is more common in older men aged 50+ and is easily treatable if caught early. However, symptoms aren’t always noticeable, which is why it’s important to be mindful of your risk.

Certain ethnic groups are at higher risk, with black men specifically more prone to the cancer than Asian men, especially if a close relative (their father or brother) has experienced it.

Dr Meena Nathan, GP and lead, says: “I encourage all men living in the North Kensington community to be aware of their risk for prostate cancer, especially if you’re aged over 50 and your family history and ethnicity heightens your risk.

“This is a very treatable cancer if caught early, so it’s worth bearing in mind your risk factor and if you have any concerns when passing urine, please don’t delay a visit to your GP.”

Find out more:

Prostate Cancer Risk Factors | Prostate Cancer UK | Prostate Cancer UK

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer/

From 7am Monday 13 March – 6.59am Thursday 16 March there is strike action taking place by junior doctors at most NHS Trusts. This will have a significant impact on NHS services and we ask the public to be aware of how to ensure they get the help they need during this time.

• Regardless of any strike action taking place, it is really important that patients who need urgent medical care continue to come forward, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases – when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk.
• There are likely to be a high number of hospital appointments cancelled. If your hospital has not contacted you, please attend your appointment as planned. The NHS will contact you if your appointment needs to be rescheduled due to strike action.
• GP services may be busier than usual.  Consider using your GP surgeries online consultation form if you have internet access.This will allow the surgery to find the right place for your needs and frees up the phone lines for those unable to go online.
• The NHS is asking patients to use services wisely during industrial action and take simple steps to help ensure care is available to patients who need it most. This includes using 111 online as the first port of call for health needs and continuing to only use 999 if it is a life-threatening emergency.

People who live or work in North Kensington and have been affected by the Grenfell Tower fire are being offered free access to Healthier Futures self-care activities.

Self-care is important for an individual’s health as it helps them to manage their life and look after their family better. The NHS has evidence to demonstrate self-care can boost an individual’s health and wellbeing*.

There are lots of free self-care activities on offer, all easily accessible to both individuals and families. These include exercise & wellbeing classes (boxing, women’s only boxing and yoga are popular choices), as well as cookery classes, health workshops and the Men’s Shed group. Sessions available for families include gardening and family coaching. 

Two women in their 60s*, who experienced huge loss and loneliness, found joining one of the self-care classes (fitness and cookery, in their cases) transformative. Not only have their feelings of social isolation been reduced by meeting new people, their confidence levels have been boosted by the effects of exercise and learning a new skill. 

Dr Meena Nathan, GP and NKR Clinical Lead says: 

“Sometimes it’s easier to prioritise others rather than ourselves. 
 
“One of the best things I can offer my patients is these free self-care activities. Not everything can be solved by medication alone. Healthier Futures gives people the chance to look after themselves for a change, by trying a new exercise or group activities. The opportunity to meet new people in a warm and welcoming environment is really beneficial – we have evidence to show these groups can really boost health, wellbeing and self-esteem.”

Hayley Turner, Primary Care & Social Prescribing Lead says:

“It can be a real challenge to put yourself first if you’re always worried about others, or paying the monthly bills.
 
“The beauty of the self-care activities that are a part of the Healthier Futures Programme is that they are easy to access and delivered by the local Voluntary and Community Sector. There are a wide range of activities available, so you could join an exercise class in the morning and then receive free debt and legal advice – all on the same day and on your doorstep!”

Residents can access the full range of Healthier Futures self-care activities by visiting www.grenfell.nhs.uk/selfcare, or speaking to their GP practice (who will signpost them to their service of choice).

Following the statement we issued on Friday 13 January, the NHS in NW London and the local authority want to share with the North Kensington Community the next steps that we plan to take.

Since Friday’s coverage about the health of firefighters in the national media, we have heard clearly from survivors, bereaved family member and local residents that many people are still worried and anxious about their health.

To provide more information to those concerned we are working with local and national partners to:  

• review the approach we have taken to monitoring the health of bereaved, survivors and local people, making changes where potential improvements are identified;
• ensure that the authors are contacted about this to understand the research in more detail;
• agree how we will work together to ensure we are taking the right approach to supporting the health of bereaved, survivors and local people, providing reassurance wherever we can.

What we know about the study referenced in the media

In terms of the specific study referenced in the article last week, the study findings reported are not related to firefighters who attended the Grenfell Tower Fire. They are based on an analysis of mortality records among a sample of male Scottish firefighters.

Some of the wider findings reported in the University of Central Lancashire’s press release (available here) are from a survey of all UK firefighters, which firefighters could choose to complete (or not).

The study referenced in the media is about occupational (work-related) risks faced by firefighters every day, and in general the higher occurrence of certain health conditions seen in this profession. None of the findings are specific to firefighters who attended the Grenfell Tower fire and the research is not based on a programme of enhanced health checks or monitoring of firefighters (in fact, this is what is being called for by the authors of the study).

We have recently been made aware that there is an entirely separate study planned on the Grenfell firefighter cohort, which involves monitoring their health over the long term in a similar way that we are doing for survivors, bereaved family members and local residents (see below). As yet, we are not aware of any published findings from this research but we will contact the researchers about this work to understand the approach in more detail.

What we are currently doing to monitor the health of survivors, the bereaved and local population

The current programme was instigated following the Coroner’s Prevention of Future Deaths Notice in September 2018 with support and guidance from national public health experts; the programme aims to provide early detection, identification and appropriate onward referral for any emerging conditions, alongside a wider population health monitoring programme reviewing the available health data to identify any trends. This goes beyond the survey or sample-based approaches reported in last week’s article.

The current programme includes:

• GP led enhanced health checks for the wider community – referral for spirometry (test for lung conditions) as required
•  Community enhanced health checks in non-medical locations for the wider community – referral to spirometry as required
• Annual adult respiratory health checks for survivors – including lung function tests
• Annual health checks for children and young people who are survivors and bereaved

Alongside this, there is a comprehensive population health monitoring programme in place to analyse the incidence of disease among survivors, bereaved family members and residents of North Kensington. The programme tracks overall activity across all disease groups and considers in detail specific conditions such as respiratory conditions, cancers and mental health conditions. This data is reviewed to identify any trends and variations and there is a robust process of clinical review to understand any observed changes.

To date, we have not identified any evidence of increases in cancers, including the specific type of cancers referenced in the article last week. We will continue this monitoring.

If you are a survivor or local resident and you are worried or want to know more about the checks and how to access them, please contact our enhanced health check service (see below)

Further actions

To ensure we are looking at all evidence and research available to us about health we are speaking to national expert bodies to:

• ·understand what, if any, implications the research may have, given that it doesn’t relate specifically to the Grenfell tragedy
• advise us on any further steps that we should take to check the health of the population and monitor health conditions, including any learning from other places

We want to ensure that survivors, bereaved family members and local people are involved so that they can have confidence that the right arrangements are in place and they can access the checks and support they need.

We will issue a further statement when we have more information on what people can expect next. In the meantime, if you have a question that you would like to ask about this work, please email nhsnwl.grenfellenquiries@nhs.net.

What to do if you’re worried

If you are a survivor from the Tower or a bereaved relative and you are worried about your health, you should contact the NHS Dedicated Service or your GP. More information on the NHS dedicated service is available here.

If you are a local resident or were present on the night of the fire and are worried, you should contact your GP or refer yourself to the Community Enhanced Health Check Service by emailing nhsnwlccg.grenfellenhancedhealth@nhs.net with your name, date of birth and contact number. The service will make contact to arrange an appointment.

Grenfell survivors, bereaved family members and local residents may have seen the article in the Mirror reporting high rates of cancer among firefighters.

This will be very worrying for firefighters who helped to rescue people from the Tower and our thoughts are with them. Many people, including bereaved and survivors and those who live in the local area, may also be worried for their own health and the health of their families, particularly given the longstanding concerns in the community about the health impacts of the tragedy.

The NHS and Council want to work together with residents to provide as much assurance to the community, as we can, about the support that is in place and the steps we have taken to date to monitor the health of local people, and to listen to any further concerns and ideas they might have in terms of monitoring going forward.

We had no prior knowledge of the article, nor any research on which it may be based. We are aware that there was an academic article published by the University of Central Lancashire earlier this week about rates of disease among firefighters. The article concerned firefighters in Scotland, and did not include firefighters who attended the Grenfell tragedy.

In relation to any findings relating to firefighters who attended the Grenfell tragedy, we urge researchers to publish these in full as soon as possible so that we can consider any implications they could have for survivors and people in the local area. Levels of exposure faced by fire fighters, given the longer-term occupational risks they face, are likely to be very different from any risks faced by survivors or from those faced by people in the local community. However, we need to see the full findings from the research to provide additional advice and reassurance to survivors, bereaved family members and local people.

In the meantime, we have been working together since the fire to ensure that the right arrangements are in place to support the health of local people and to monitor key health trends. We have constantly reviewed these arrangements and will continue to do so.

The NHS already has a programme of enhanced respiratory and paediatric checks in place for survivors who left the Tower on the night and is monitoring all health conditions (including cancers) among this group. Alongside this, Public Health is working with the NHS to monitor the health of the wider population, looking at key trends and monitoring changes in health conditions (again, including cancers). This monitoring programme has been informed by the coroner’s recommendations and experts from public health, clinicians and academia.

So far this monitoring has not identified any increases in cancers. The health of these groups will continue to be closely monitored to help us understand any longer-term impacts of the tragedy.

We have sought further assurances from expert bodies to ensure we are all taking appropriate steps to help to support and monitor the health of the local population. We will continue to keep bereaved, survivors and residents informed about what we hear. If there is new evidence or findings which show additional risks, or suggestions from expert bodies about other monitoring we can introduce, we stand ready to change the approach we are taking.

What to do if you’re worried

If you are a survivor from the Tower or a bereaved relative and you are worried about your health, you should contact the NHS Dedicated Service or your GP. More information on the NHS dedicated service is available here:

If you are a local resident or were present on the night of the fire and are worried, you should contact your GP or refer yourself to the Community Enhanced Health Check Service by emailing nhsnwlccg.grenfellenhancedhealth@nhs.net with your name, date of birth and contact number. The service will make contact to arrange an appointment.

As the end of the year approaches, the NHS wants to remind the Grenfell community (specifically survivors and the bereaved) that the Dedicated Service is available to support pre-existing and new health issues, such as diabetes, asthma, anxiety or low mood.

Although many people prefer to access these services through their GP, other referral routes are readily available through our Health Partners, or you can even self refer.

A booklet detailing all the services available as well as the referral routes is available in an easily accessible Dedicated Service booklet, which is available online in eight different languages, including English, Arabic, Spanish and Vietnamese.

Mary Mullix, North Kensington Recovery’s Director says: “The end of a year can be a hectic time for North Kensington and Grenfell-affected residents, but may be a time of quiet reflection for others. Wherever you are, it may provide an ideal opportunity to revisit what NHS services can be accessed in the New Year to support your health and wellbeing.

“The Dedicated Service booklet provides a useful reference point for the full range of services available and we encourage you to access this as a starting point to see whether an Enhanced Health Check, or an Extended GP appointment best meets your needs. Self Care is an alternative option for everyone. The booklet contains a useful infographic as a visual guide.

“Many people find the New Year brings a renewed desire to be active, so local community groups and activities are an ideal way to support your emotional health as well as keep fit. You can access these activities via one of our Health Partners or by accessing a range of services running from the St Charles Centre for Health and Wellbeing on Exmoor Street (call: 020 8969 2488).”

Recent demands for urgent, same day appointments are being linked to parental concerns over their child becoming unwell and contracting a Group A streptococcus (Strep A) infection.

Strep A is responsible for infections such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, scarlet fever, impetigo and cellulitis. Strep A is usually a mild infection and can initially present with similar symptoms to the common cold or flu (such as a sore throat, headache, fever and chills).

Strep A-specific symptoms may include a fine, pinkish or red body rash and on darker skins the rash can be more difficult to detect visually, but will have a sandpapery feel.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recently advised that a nasal spray vaccine that protects children against flu may also help protect against Strep A infections. It found that rates of strep A were lower in areas where the vaccine was offered to all primary-age children when it was first being used.

Dr Meena Nathan, GP Clinical lead for Grenfell, says: “In the North Kensington area we have seen increased parental concern that their child’s illness might be Strep A-related.

“The majority of Strep A infections are mild and can be treated with antibiotics. However if your child has a raised temperature and isn’t eating or drinking as usual, or your baby has a dry nappy for over 12 hours, then there is a risk of dehydration and you should call NHS 111 immediately, or contact your GP surgery for advice.”

UKHSA provides more information in a video HERE.

Cultural Competency courses that have been co-produced by the North Kensington (Grenfell) Recovery (NKR) engagement team and the Grenfell community have received prestigious accreditation from the Royal College of GPs (RCGP).

Cultural Competency is a process that describes a set of aligned and transparent skills, attitudes and principles that acknowledge, respect and work together as a system towards optimal interactions between individuals and the various cultural and ethnic groups within a community.

For patients this means professionals having an enhanced awareness and understanding of their health and social needs, with the aim of improving their health outcomes.

The training is the result of a two-year process of whole system partnership with local communities and those impacted by the Grenfell Tower fire, who shared their experiences, concerns and views on how services could be made more culturally relevant.

This learning from Grenfell has resulted in an innovative approach overseen by Head of Engagement for NKR Krishna Sarda, Engagement and Equalities Manager Radhika Howarth and the GP Clinical lead for Grenfell Dr Meena Nathan, who have worked with the community to adapt the training to ensure it is responsive and robust. The courses are tailored to the specific roles of different health professionals.

The bespoke training courses have now been successfully piloted in North Kensington, with GPs taking the course titled Developing a Culturally Competence General Practice to receive their accreditation. Once all staff in their practice are trained in cultural competency the Practice can be certified as being a culturally competent General Practice. Culturally competent Patient Participation Groups (PPGs) are being piloted to create sustainability at the local level. This is one of the dimensions of NKR’s approach to dealing with health inequalities.

Mary Mullix, Director of the North Kensington (Grenfell) Recovery Programme, says: “I first want to thank the community who have worked closely with the NKR Engagement team to develop this Cultural Competency training, which has resulted in receiving prestigious RCGP accreditation.

“This is the result of diligently engaging with the community and Health Partners over a number of years to build their trust, and to gain a vital understanding of what the community needs to improve their health and wellbeing. We hope the Cultural Competency training will be viewed as an example of what can be achieved when working with communities as equal partners to co-produce work that will benefit so many people.”

Training is now being scheduled for all Primary Care staff in North Kensington, with the intent to roll this out to other locations across NHS North West London ICS in the next few months.

The NHS has services local to you that make it easy to access support during the cold winter months.

Flu jabs and Covid boosters can be booked online through the National Booking Service or by calling 119. You can also visit a vaccine centre or the pop up bus located at Kensington Town Hall. Details of local sites can be found here. These vaccines are also available from the local pharmacy as an alternative to contacting GP practices.

Extra length, Grenfell-specific GP extended appointments and annual enhanced health checks continue being offered by GPs to support Grenfell-affected residents, but those feeling especially worried and anxious are advised to call the dedicated Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service helpline on 020 8637 6279 (open Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm).

Additionally if you need urgent help, the St Charles Urgent Care Centre, has a walk-in service which is nurse-led. It can help with minor injuries and illnesses and provides same day access and care. The service runs seven days a week, 8am-6pm and is open on bank holidays (excluding Christmas Day).

Residents who need practical financial advice and support can access more help here.

More information about all the services available can be found at www.grenfell.nhs.uk.

The walk-in service at St Charles Urgent Care Centre (UCC) (provided by Central London Healthcare NHS Trust (CLCH) has re-opened.

Dring Covid-19 pandemic the NHS in North West London had to temporarily close a number of services.  However, the success of the Covid-19 vaccination programme meant that we were able to temporarily reopen as a booked in service only and following this we worked with our NHS partners to fully reopen the walk-in-service.

The Walk-in service at St Charles Urgent Care Centre is a nurse led service for minor injuries and illnesses and will provide access for same day care without an appointment.

The service runs seven days a week, 8am-6pm, open on bank holidays but excluding Christmas Day.

An appointment booked service will be retained to allow NHS 111 and GPs to book North West London patients for remote/virtual triage at the centre. Patients registered with a GP practice outside NW London will not be able to access the service via NHS 111 or via GP booked appointment.

All walk-in patients, irrespective of where they live who attend the UCC will receive or be directed to appropriate care. 

Our thoughts are with those affected by the fire in a high-rise residential building in Shepherd's Bush today, which is close to Grenfell Tower.

The fire broke out on the 12^th floor of the high rise tower in Queensdale Crescent at 9.20am this morning. 

Although the London Fire Brigade has confirmed the fire is now under control and the majority of residents were safely evacuated (although one person is in hospital), we are aware that survivors of the Grenfell Tower fire, the bereaved, and the wider community will be upset and unsettled by today’s events.

 The NHS is here to support everyone affected by Grenfell, so please don’t hesitate to reach out for the emotional, physical and wellbeing support that’s available.

On Tuesday morning the names of the 72 people who lost their lives in the Grenfell Tower fire were individually and poignantly read out in a multi-faith service at Westminster Abbey.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended the afternoon service held at the foot of the Grenfell Tower, where the community gathered to pay tribute to their loved ones with speeches and songs. There were many moving tributes, particularly the poem by an eight-year-old girl who survived the fire. Green banners, flowers and messages of tribute on the memorial wall provided the backdrop. During the ceremony 18 green balloons were released to represent the lives of the 18 children who died.

Mary Mullix, Director of the North Kensington Recovery Team, said:
 “The five year anniversary has been a sad milestone for this community.

As the health service serving this community we’d like everyone affected by the Grenfell fire to know that the NHS has been listening to them and is still here for them. We will continue building health services around survivors, the bereaved and wider communities that responds to what is needed to help emotional well-being alongside physical health.

I’d like to encourage everyone who needs support to come forward when they are ready – the services are there for you and we are here to help.”

The NHS is here to support all the North Kensington communities today, on the fifth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire – as well as afterwards.

As in previous years, we will be present at various venues across the community and supporting community events. Please come and talk to us if you feel you need our support.

Additionally, there are additional health services that have been put in place by the NHS to specifically support the individuals bereaved by Grenfell (children and adults), their families and the wider communities impacted by the fire in North Kensington.

We know anniversaries are difficult, so please don’t hesitate to reach out for support if you need it.

The NHS Dedicated Service

This service is set up specifically to support and coordinate bereaved and survivor access to a range of emotional and wellbeing health services.

Call 020 8637 6279 (open Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm)

Visit https://grenfellwellbeing.cnwl.nhs.uk/dedicated-service, or visit them at Grenfell  Health and Wellbeing Service, St. Charles’ Centre for Health & Wellbeing, Exmoor Street, London, W10 6DZ (open Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm)

The NHS Dedicated Service is not an emergency service; so in an emergency or where someone’s life is at risk please phone 999. 

Extended length GP appointments and Annual Enhanced Health Checks

You can request these extra length, Grenfell-specific GP Extended Appointments and Annual Enhanced Health Checks from your GP.

Find your nearest GP practice here: Find a GP - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

The Community Enhanced Health Check service, delivered by the West London GP Federation is also available to you. To access an Enhanced Health Check in the community closer to you email: nhsnwlccg.grenfellenhancedhealth@nhs.net or call  020 8102 5109 (open Monday to Friday 9.00am – 6.30pm)

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service

The service works alongside you in a way that is tailored to you, your family and community. Contact the service via email grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net  or phone 020 8637 6279 (open everyday 8.00am to 8.00pm)

For urgent mental health support overnight the mental health Single Point of Access (SPA) is available over the phone. Call 0800 0234 650 (from 8.00pm to 8.00am).

Self Care

You can also refer to all the wellbeing services on the Roadmap for Wellbeing. This contains lots of very useful information and resources when you click on each service listed under the different headings: Roadmap to Wellbeing Services 

A range of self care services is also available through the Kensington and Chelsea Social Council. Call 020 7243 9800/ Email: info@kcsc.org.uk/

Directory search for local services: https://www.kcsc.org.uk/kcsc-directory

Everyone remembers where they were when they heard about the Grenfell Tower fire – a night when 72 individuals tragically lost their lives. Every single one of these deaths was – and remains - a heart-breaking loss for the loved ones left behind.

All of us in the National Health Service express our deepest condolences to all those impacted by this disaster.  Although nothing we can say or do will bring back your loved ones, we would like you to know that the NHS is here to support you and your family.

The additional services put in place to support Grenfell families, and those in the wider community, are available for you today, over the next year and beyond.  Our thoughts are with you all on this sad anniversary and I will be joining in the 72 second silence on Tuesday 14 June at 11am. 

As the new Chief Executive of the North West London Integrated Care System, the new body responsible for the overall NHS partnership in North West London, I very much look forward to getting to know you, hearing and learning from you all.

Rob

Rob Hurd

Chief Executive

NHS North West London Integrated Care System

Grenfell anniversary – taking care of yourself and loved ones

We are approaching the fifth anniversary of the Grenfell tragedy and our thoughts are with the whole community of North Kensington, as we remember the 72 lives lost.

The anniversary period is a difficult time for many residents in North Kensington, and everyone will react and respond in different ways to this significant event. The NHS is here throughout this period and beyond, to support you and your family.

Marking the anniversary

Marking the fifth anniversary has presented many additional challenges. The past few years have been very difficult for all of us with the continued impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, war in Ukraine, ongoing increases in the cost of living and other life events. Many residents are feeling additional stress and anxiety as current events remind them of things that happened before, during and after Grenfell, making it harder for them to cope leading up to the anniversary.

Some residents have also expressed worry about the ongoing Grenfell Inquiry and concerns about justice and the future of the tower. All of these things might make the upcoming anniversary even harder.

The NHS continues to firmly stand together with all the North Kensington communities, and there are many health services in place for the North Kensington communities to utilise for their physical and psychological health needs. If you have any worries or concerns, we do recommend that you seek support.

Advice & support

It is more important than ever that you look after your mental and emotional health and wellbeing at this time.

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service has published guides with some suggestions and advice that might help. Click on the links below to download the information and share with others:

https://grenfellwellbeing.cnwl.nhs.uk/news/grenfell-news/updated-grenfell-anniversary-leaflets

Further information and a leaflet focused on a programme of wellbeing activities during the anniversary period, is available here:

https://grenfellwellbeing.cnwl.nhs.uk/news/grenfell-news/grenfell-anniversary-wellbeing-activities-2022

I need to speak to someone, or know someone else who needs help

If you or someone you know has been affected by Grenfell, and need support, or you would just like to have a chat, you can call the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service on 020 8637 6279, phone line is open every day 8.00am to 8.00pm, or email at grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net.

You can also contact the NHS ‘Single Point of Access’ overnight from 8.00pm for telephone support on 0800 0234 650. The service is confidential and you are not required to give any personal details.

You can find out more here: grenfellwellbeing.com/contact-us

I have another health worry

If you are worried about any aspect of your health then speak to your GP in the first instance, you can request a Grenfell specific GP Extended Appointment with your practice reception if you need more time with your GP. These appointments can take place either face or face or over the phone, based on your health needs.

Your GP can also book you in for an Enhanced Health Check, to provide a comprehensive 30-minute health check by clinical staff members at the GP Practices.

Additional health services to support the community, are delivered by different parts of the NHS such as GP practices, hospital or community services and local voluntary and community organisations. A guide to those services can be found here:

https://www.grenfell.nhs.uk/nhs-services

If you need healthcare or treatment, it is important that you contact the NHS which is here for you and is actively encouraging people not to hesitate in speaking to their GP or, in an emergency, calling 999.

April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month and we are encouraging 56 and over 60 year olds to participate in bowel screening as part of the National Age Extension Campaign for bowel screening.

Previously bowel screening kits have been available for anyone over the age of 60 years with 60-74-year-olds automatically sent a home test every two years. Last year in April 2021, 56 year olds were invited to take part in screening and eventually everyone between the ages of 50 and 74 will be invited to take part.

Every 15 minutes somebody is diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK and it is one of the most common types of cancers diagnosed in the UK.

The campaign is being promoted across our social media channels and outdoor advertising is taking place in Brent, Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, and Hammersmith and Fulham. These are boroughs that RM Partners, who we are working with on this campaign, have identified as needing encouragement to participate in bowel cancer screening.

Bowel cancer screening is done at home which could ease worry for those that may be nervous about going to hospital since the pandemic. The kit, which includes simple instructions, is sent in the post and test results arrive back in the post within 2 weeks.

Dr Abhijit Singh Gill, Hammersmith and Fulham GP, Cancer Lead for NHS NW London Clinical Commissioning Group and Primary Care Clinical Director for RM Partners West London Cancer Alliance, which provided support for this campaign said:

“Bowel cancer is highly treatable and curable especially if diagnosed early. However, the outcomes drop significantly when the disease is diagnosed at a later stage. Screening is a way of finding out if there are any signs of cancer so that early treatment can be offered or information given to help make informed decisions.

People may have put off routine checks due to the pandemic but it’s important screening doesn’t slip – and the great thing about bowel screening is it can be done easily at home with a few simple steps”

Everybody who is registered with a GP and in the age criteria will automatically be sent a Bowel Cancer Screening kit every 2 years. The kit includes simple instructions and test results arrive back in the post within 2 weeks. If you would like the NHS to send you a testing kit call the free bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 60 60.

If you are worried about a family history of bowel cancer or have any symptoms, please contact your GP practice for advice.  

Cancer won’t wait. Screening saves lives, are you up to date?

The NHS is offering Enhanced health checks once again at community sites in North Kensington, initially starting with the St Charles Health and Wellbeing centre.

The Enhanced Health Check offers a longer appointment with a dedicated clinician to check your health and well-being. The checks are designed to identify any areas where further treatment, self-care or support may be needed. You can also discuss any physical health concerns which you haven't had the opportunity to do so throughout the pandemic.  

Dr Meena Nathan,

 “We want to offer as much convenience as possible for people to take up this opportunity to have a thorough check of their health and there is no better time than the start of the year.

“Some people will want to see their usual GP for this service whereas others may want more flexibility in terms of where and when they go for the check. We’re now delighted to be able to offer both options and make this service more accessible to more people”.

The checks were introduced as a response to health concerns in the community following Grenfell and number of specialist services are available for referral should any health matter need further investigation following the check.

Appointments can be booked by calling 0208 102 5109, or you can email for a call back nhsnwlccg.grenfellenhancedhealth@nhs.net, offices are open 9-6pm Monday to Friday You can also call your GP practice and they can book you in at the practice or a community site.

More community sites will be announced very soon on our website.

Dr Ernie Wong, Consultant Respiratory Physician, and clinical lead for asthma at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust will be leading the workshop with practical examples on the use of inhalers.

This workshop is free and open to anyone living in North Kensington

Wednesday 23^rd February 2022

2pm – 3pm

Dalgarno Community Centre, 1 Webb Close, Dalgarno Way, London, W10 5QB

The workshop will cover the following -

• Understanding Asthma and its diagnosis
• Triggers- what sets it off or makes it worse?
• Treatments – how to use inhalers correctly
• Managing asthma for good outcomes

You can attend in person or join the workshop using the zoom link by clicking here

Or book a place by emailing - nhswlccg.nkrt@nhs.net or call 07951940535

There will be an opportunity to ask questions.

If you wish to attend in person then please book a place using Eventbrite link below

• What is it about the unvaccinated that makes them more at risk of passing on the virus?

For people that are vaccinated, their bodies can process the virus without becoming infected or developing symptoms. This reduces the likelihood of passing it onto others. This video explains the science behind this.

Covid-19 and booster vaccine

• I'm eligible for the booster vaccine but haven't heard anything from my GP, how can I get this?

You don't need to wait for an invitation from the NHS to get your booster vaccine. We encourage everyone to call 119 or go to www.nhs.uk five months after there second jab to book their appointment. Currently, you can have the booster vaccine from six months after your second jab, this will soon change to three months.

• Is it safe to take a booster jab if you have had the flu vaccine?

Yes it is safe. If you are offered both vaccines, it is also safe to have them at the same time.

• How long will the booster jab offer protection?

We don’t fully know, but we do know that the protection from the first two vaccinations is not as good after six months, so you need to have a booster.

• Can I still take a booster jab if I haven’t taken my flu jab?

Yes, you can have the booster jab without taking the flu jab but we don't recommend this. The flu vaccination is important because more people are likely to get flu this winter as fewer people will have built up natural immunity to it during the Covid-19 pandemic.

If you get flu and Covid-19 at the same time, research shows you're more likely to be seriously ill. Flu kills 11,000 people a year.

• Will the booster jab protect me from flu and vice versa? Or are these two separate jabs?

No, you need both jabs.

• Can I still take the booster jab if I haven’t got my second vaccine?

No. You should have your second vaccine and then the booster jab six (soon three) months after that.

• I still haven't had my second jab of the Covid-19 vaccine, what should I do?

If you have not had a second vaccine please book an appointment eight weeks after your first. For ages 12-17, they should have the second jab 12 weeks after the first vaccine.

Flu vaccine

• People who get the flu jab still get the flu why?

The flu jab protects against the most common strains of flu but there are other strains. So, whilst you are protected against the most common strains, there is a small chance you may come into contact with another strain. Having the flu jab significantly reduces your risk of getting flu.

• Will the flu vaccine also protect me against Covid-19?

No. Both flu and Covid-19 are very serious illnesses, you need both jabs.

This year self-care week is taking place from the 15-21 November. Self-Care Week is an annual awareness week that focuses on embedding support for self-care across communities. The theme this year is Practise Self-Care for Life. Self-care is the actions that individuals take in order to develop, protect, maintain and improve their health, wellbeing or wellness.

The week aims to encourage and empower people to better look after their own physical health and mental wellbeing. In 2020, more than 900 organisations and individuals used the awareness week to empower their audiences. Empowering people with the confidence and information to look after themselves when they can, and visit their GP when they need to, gives people greater control of their own health and encourages healthy behaviours.

Some examples of the messages promoted during self-care week include:

· Good nutrition and regular exercise can help support general wellbeing and help maximise people’s immunity

· Supporting mental wellness by keeping connected, sharing how you feel and knowing where to get help if you need it.

· Understanding how to manage minor and long term health conditions

In addition to helping people look after their own health, Self-Care Week is also used to promote better use of the NHS by signposting people to the right service relevant to their health needs.

Healthier Futures: NHS North Kensington Self-Care Programme

Healthier futures: The North Kensington Self-Care programme, helps residents of North Kensington to take more control of their mental health and physical wellbeing, and build social contact with access to community, leisure, education, arts and volunteering opportunities.

It aims to support those in the North Kensington community to manage their long-term health conditions in a non-medical manner, whilst building confidence, knowledge and skills to manage their health and wellbeing.

These services are for those aged between 18-64, who live and/or work in North Kensington and have been affected by the Grenfell tower fire.

More information about the programme can be found here.

Resources available to support the week:

To support the week there are a range of resources available on the self-care website including case studies, logos and factsheets. The resource page can be found here.

For more information, visit the self-care website.

Central and North West London Trust have announced the launch of the new integrated community hub model in Kensington and Chelsea and the Queens Park and Paddington area of North Westminster.

Find out more here.

The NHS North West London Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is seeking public views on online GP consultation services.  

Online GP consultation services allow anyone registered with a GP practice to make contact with them via the internet. The service can be used for a variety of reasons, from non-urgent general medical advice for yourself or a child, requesting an appointment, seeking information and support with a long-term condition and administrative help including sick notes. To use the service, patients complete an online form via their GP practice website or through a mobile app. The practice then provides the most appropriate response, such as advice sent by text, email or online live chat, or a phone, video or face to face appointment.

This is now just one of the ways you can contact your GP surgery when you need them. The NHS continue to provide both face to face appointments as well as online services to ensure our patients can access their GP in the way that suits them. 

The NHS will be working with local Healthwatch’s to engage with residents across North West London to help the NHS gain a better understanding of your views on online GP services. We want to hear from our patients and the public about what’s working, what doesn’t and how we can make it better so that our online services remain beneficial to those using them.
 

Professor Ian Goodman, Clinical Lead for Primary Care Digital Strategy, North West London CCG, said: “The pandemic shined a light on the importance of the NHS keeping up with the times and providing a service that is high quality both on and offline. It is our sole aim to always deliver care that is beneficial to our patients and the public. We’re really looking forward to having Healthwatch on-board with this important work and sharing their expertise on listening to the public through research and engagement.”

The ability to contact your GP online started a few years ago to help make accessing the surgery and your GP easier. During the Covid-19 pandemic, these services became especially important and allowed practices to effectively stay open and continue helping patients safely.

Have your say…. 

In order to gather your views, we have put together a survey that we ask you to complete and share with friends, family and neighbours who are registered at a GP surgery within the eight boroughs of North West London – Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith and Fulham, Harrow, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Kensington and Chelsea or Westminster.

The survey can be found here. Please complete it so you can have your say and help us improve the service.

The survey will stay open for nine weeks; the closing date is Wednesday 5 January 2022.

Stay in touch….

If you have any questions about the survey or the work the NHS and Healthwatch are doing please feel free to get in touch via email: nhsnwlccg.ocsurvey@nhs.net.  

You can also find our updates on Twitter @HealthierNWL, Facebook @staywellnwl and Instagram @NWLondonICS.

Media enquiries nhsnwlccg.media@nhs.net.

[ENDS]

Notes to editors

1.    NHS North West London Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is a clinically led organisation responsible for planning, buying and monitoring most of the health services used by our residents.

Formed on 1 April 2021, the CCG covers the London boroughs of Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, Harrow, Hillingdon, Hammersmith & Fulham, Hounslow, Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster.

For more information: www.nwlondonccg.nhs.uk/​​

North West London Clinical Commissioning Group (NWL CCG), working with Kensington & Chelsea Social Council (KCSC) are very pleased to announce grants from the North Kensington Recovery Self-care Resilience fund have been awarded to a number of local organisations.

What is the fund?

This fund is part of the North Kensington Recovery Self-Care programme, which aims to help residents take more control of their mental and physical wellbeing, and manage any long term health conditions outside of medical settings. This programme aims to build confidence, knowledge, skills and resilience.

The application process

Applications opened to local Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) organisations in May with the task of delivering Self-Care activities and building resilience in the communities that have been affected by the Grenfell Tower fire. Priority was given to applications that also aimed to tackle the key health themes in the area which are cancer, diabetes, asthma, obesity, hypertension, coronary Heart Disease and mental Health.

The grants offered were dependant on the size of the organisation and project. New organisations were also able to apply and access support from KCSC to develop policies and procedures to help them establish.

A total of 13 organisations were awarded funding and have all started their projects which are expected to run between 6 and 15 months.

Kalwant Sahota, Social prescribing lead for North Kensington Recovery Programme says:

“Working with the local community and voluntary sector to deliver these activities is so vital to this programme, it empowers and develops skills locally, strengthens the community and makes is much easier for local people to join in! Congratulations to all those who have been awarded funding and are working so hard locally to get these projects off the ground, the local NHS team is looking forward to working with you”.

The new projects

The services cover; exercise and wellbeing, advice, group services and training.
Find out more about the projects and how to get involved below.

• The Lunch Box Club: A boxing and nutrition programme with 8 boxing sessions at Dale Youth Boxing Club plus 8 cook and eat sessions delivered by a nutritionist at Bay20. To refer yourself, click here: https://www.kcsc.org.uk/page/north-kensington-self-care-referral-form
• Our Power Hub Boxing: Men only and women only low intensity & high intensity boxing & fitness classes (suitable for Muslim women) for 5 months, both in person at Dale Youth boxing gym and virtually, delivered by Our Power Hub. To sign up, contact referrals@ourpowerhub.org or call 07960420333 (male boxing) or 07495659826 (female boxing). 
• Mixed Power Walking and Women’s Only Yoga: Mixed power walking and gentle exercise, along with Women’s only Yoga classes for Notting Dale ward residents, delivered by Community Champions (VCKC). To sign up, email Ewa at ewa.kasjanowicz@vckc.org.uk or call 079 6123 2431

Advice

• Specialist legal advice for disabled people: Legal advice on disability-related benefits, PIP, UC, Housing adaptations, disability discrimination and general casework, delivered by ADKC. To refer yourself, click here: https://www.kcsc.org.uk/page/north-kensington-self-care-referral-form
• Information, Advice and Guidance Service: Benefits, housing, grants and education advice for North Kensington residents delivered by The ClementJames Centre. To refer yourself, click here: https://www.kcsc.org.uk/page/north-kensington-self-care-referral-form

Group services

• Cooking and Nutrition Classes: In person healthy cooking class delivered by a different chef each week plus ingredients to take home, delivered by the Venture Centre. To sign up, contact info@venturecentre.org.uk or call 0208 960 3234
• Trauma support group for disabled people: An opportunity to talk and receive support for traumatic experiences with an experienced counsellor at hand, delivered by ADKC.  To sign up, contact Glenda on personaldevelopment@adkc.org.uk or 07541 951506
• Positive empowerment group for disabled people: Confidential peer support and counselling group, any issues welcome. Friendly group atmosphere, delivered by ADKC. To sign up, contact Glenda on personaldevelopment@adkc.org.uk or 07541 951506
• Active for Health: Culturally appropriate diabetes programme for people from BAME backgrounds, which includes supervised walks, information and advice and cookery lessons delivered by French African Welfare Association. To refer yourself, click here: https://www.kcsc.org.uk/page/north-kensington-self-care-referral-form
• Caring Hands Project: Culturally specific project for people from Sub-Saharan Africa providing arts and crafts, coffee and Tea mornings, walking groups and cooking of healthy African food delivered by Pamodzi. To sign up, email Chikwaba on pamodzi03@aol.com or call 07970418893
• My Life, My Choice: Supporting young people aged 18 to 30 to work individually and collectively on their mental and physical wellbeing through a wide range of volunteer placements, delivered by The Volunteer Centre K&C. To refer yourself, click here: https://www.kcsc.org.uk/page/north-kensington-self-care-referral-form
• Afeemad and Afeeya (Health): Culturally appropriate education for the Somali and Bravanese community to tackle obesity, diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, Arthritis and mental health issues through virtual workshops and walking groups, delivered by Kulan Somali Organisation. To sign up, contact info@kulankso.org or call 07377866118.

Training

• Digital Champions: Peer-to-peer training designed to reduce digital exclusion among residents delivered by Dalgarno Trust, enabling access to online services such as the NHS, employment, DWP and RBKC with ease and confidence. To sign up, email Rosana on Rosana@dalgarnotrust.org.uk or call: 07518 617616.

Flu and Covid-19 can both be life-threatening and spread more easily in winter, when we are all crowded together inside.

This winter, most adults and children will be eligible for a flu jab, a Covid-19 vaccination and/or a booster.

These free vaccinations are the most effective way to boost your natural immunity and protect yourself and your family from these viruses.

You will be contacted by letter or text to let you know which vaccines are available to you. It’s really important this year to take the vaccines that the NHS invite you for. You can also book to have your jabs at your local pharmacy.

Book your vaccine appointments, boost your immunity, stay well and protect the NHS this winter.

Doctor Oisin Brannick, GP, Exmoor surgery North Kensington said: “Looking after our health during winter is really important. This year, both flu and Covid-19 are in circulation, meaning that it’s essential for everyone to take the vaccinations that are on offer to them. This will help to prevent the serious impact that these viruses can have and also help to reduce their spread.”

Who is eligible to receive the free flu vaccine:

·  People aged 50 and over

·  People with long term health conditions

·  Pregnant women

·  Parents of 2-16-year olds

·  Carers

·  Frontline health and social care workers.

For more information on flu, visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/

Who is eligible to receive the Covid-19 booster vaccine:

· People aged 40 and over (all over 18 in the coming weeks)

· People aged 16 and over with a health condition that puts you at high risk from Covid-19.

You need to wait for a least six months after your second Covid-19 vaccine dose to receive your booster. Please wait to be contacted by the NHS before booking your booster dose.

 Who is eligible to receive the Covid-19 vaccine:

· Everyone 12 years of age and older is now eligible to get a Covid-19 vaccination.

For more information on how to get your Covid-19 vaccine in North West London visit: www.nwlondonccg.nhs.uk/coronavirus/vaccine-centres

For more information on Covid-19 visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

Look out for more information on NHS services and staying well on this website.

Please join us for a learning event on 23 September 2-3pm where our Health Partners, Spectra will lead a session to share insight to help improve engagement and health outcomes amongst this group. The session is aimed at commissioners, engagement leads and voluntary and community groups across NW London.

The next Grenfell Community Assembly takes place on Thursday 9 September from 6pm to 7.45pm at The Harrow Club, W10. Its theme is emotional health and wellbeing.

Find out more and register here - www.rbkc.gov.uk/grenfell-community-assembly

Our new infographic aims to explain what services are available in North Kensington from primary care to specialist services and how to access them. Want to download a copy? Click here.

A primary care pilot has launched in North Kensington. The recent review of primary care services highlighted that people affected by Grenfell aren’t always accessing the additional services that are available in North Kensington through their GP practice; such as Extended Appointments and the Enhanced Heath Checks.

In response to this the North Kensington Recovery team are launching a pilot to test a new approach which will include dedicated GPs to review and case manage this list of patients proactively.

The pilot will begin at Foreland Medical centre. Due to the close proximity to the tower the practice has a large number of patients registered affected by Grenfell. The hope is that the  ‘case management’ approach will improve patient satisfaction and health outcomes in the community. The GP and team will be looking at changes in patients’ health needs; the impact of COVID-19 on individual’s health and the issues patients are having accessing primary care services locally.

As part of the service Enhanced Health Checks and Extended appointments will continue to be offered. More information on both these services below:

• Enhanced Health Checks

• These health checks with the GP are aimed at assessing over health and wellbeing and finding the early signs of any health problems or any underlying health conditions​​​​. ​

• Extended appointments

• The extended appointments enable patients to have more time their GP to discuss and address any physical and mental health concerns and arrange any necessary referrals to specialist services if needed, including respiratory and toxicologist consultants.

Appointments can be booked through the practice reception, for more information visit Foreland Medical centre website for more information.

People within three months of turning 18 can now book their vaccine appointment online through the National booking system and anyone aged 16 and 17 can now walk in to any one of our large vaccination centres in NW London.

NHS chiefs are urging young people to get protected against the virus this summer ahead of going to college or university in September.

Findings from the Office for National Statistics this week showed that willingness to get jabbed has increased among 18 to 21 year olds and more than 1.4 million people between 18 and 24 have already been jabbed.

NHS NW London Chief Nurse Pippa Nightingale said: “We’re delighted we are able to extend our vaccination programme to protect even more people in NW London.”

“Teenagers out and about enjoying their summer break can do so with the reassurance the vaccine brings and it’s never been easier to get your jab at one of many vaccination sitesacross NW London”.

Children aged 12 to 15 who are clinically vulnerable to covid or who live with adults who are at increased risk of serious illness from the virus are also in the process of being contacted by the NHS and invited for their vaccine.

Text invitations appear as an alert from ‘NHSvaccine’ and include a web link to the NHS website to reserve an appointment.

The NHS has been jabbing at hundreds of convenient locations across the country, such as mosques, museums, football stadiums and other community hubs.

People who attended a walk-in clinic for their first dose will have their vaccination record updated online and will then be able to book in their second dose appointment using the National Booking Service. 

For a full list of where you can get your vaccination, please visit  www.nwlondonccg.nhs.uk/coronavirus/vaccine-centres.

Throughout the summer Change4Life Healthy Lifestyle Clubs will provide free four-week programmes to support families in eating well and staying active. They are open to expectant parents, children and young people 0-1, or up to 25 years with a special educational need or disability, who live in Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea or are registered at schools, Children's Centres or GPs in either of the boroughs. 

Find out more here

Is the vaccine for me? COVID-19 vaccine discussion for young adults

Have your questions answered about the COVID-19 vaccine.

When: Thursday, 5 August 2021 at 6:30pm

This is your chance to understand more about how the vaccine works and ask questions to health professionals including Professor Kevin Fenton, Regional Director of Public Health London.

Find out more here - https://www.westminster.gov.uk/event/covid-19-vaccine-discussion-young-adults

On Saturday 31^st July as part of RBKCs Summer of Love Campaign we are holding a festival of Activity and  wellbeing in Holland Park between 11am and 4pm.  This will be a fun opportunity for the community to discover free,  activities at Holland Park for all age groups including basketball, tennis. Badminton, football, dance and cricket.

The Event will also include market stalls promoting some of our local services including the GLL our leisure provider,  Living well, One you and Change for life.

The Vaccination bus will also be on  site for those who would like to get their Covid-19 jab and ask professionals questions about the vaccine or pick up home testing kits.   More details on this event can be found here. 

The report outlining findings from the second stage of environmental checks around the Grenfell Tower, has now been published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government. You can read the report here.

If anyone has any health concerns following the publication of this report, the NHS is here to help and can see you safely.

There are additional GP services for residents of North Kensington including extended (longer) appointments and the opportunity to have an Enhanced Health Check, both available through your GP practice.

Enhanced Health Checks offer a review of your health and are aimed at finding any early signs of health problems or any underlying health conditions​​​​. The check is provided for both adults and children by your GP and you can call your practice reception to book and appointment.

For more information click here extended appointments and Enhanced Health Checks services.

The NHS runs dedicated health services for adults and children who have been affected by the Grenfell Tower fire, to give them the support they need to recover and achieve their health goals. Going forward we wish to understand what is most important to you about your health, what changes we need to make going forward to support our diverse North Kensington community, and how we communicate with you. You can complete the health survey at https://forms.gle/wiQ22zU3qffBASSs6, which closes on 30th July.

If you or groups you represent would like to get in touch with us directly to talk to us about your views and to gather your feedback, please contact wlccg.nkrt@nhs.net and we can arrange a time to meet that suits you.

On Saturday 19 June, one-day pop-up vaccination events are being held across NW London to quickly provide more Covid-19 vaccinations to local residents. 

Second doses will also be available and the vaccinations available at each site are listed below:

The events are being held at:

• Chelsea Football Club, Fulham - open 10am - 7.30pm 
  Stamford Bridge, Fulham Road, London, SW6 1HS
  Booking link: https://cfc-massvac.eventbrite.co.uk/ 
  (Pfizer vaccine only) 
• Bridge Park Community Leisure Centre, Brent - open 10am - 5.30pm 
  Harrow Road, London, NW10 0RG
  Booking link: https://bridgeparkvacc.eventbrite.co.uk/ 
  (Astra Zeneca and Pfizer vaccines available)
• The Dominion Centre, Southall, Ealing - open 8.30am - 6pm (also open Friday 18 June)
  (Astra Zeneca and Pfizer vaccines available)
• Byron Hall, Harrow – Second doses only - open Sunday 20 June, 8am – 8pm
  Christchurch Avenue, Harrow HA3 5BD
  Booked appointments only(Pfizer vaccines available)
• Feltham Assembly Hall - drop-in clinic - Sunday 20th June  - 8.30am - 7.30pm
  Feltham Park, Hounslow Road, Feltham, TW14 9DN
  (Astra Zeneca and Pfizer vaccines available)
• Hounslow Jamia Masjid - drop-in clinic - Friday 18th June - 9am - 8pm
  Hounslow Jamia Masjid & Islamic Centre, 367 Wellington Rd S, Hounslow TW4 5HU
  (Pfizer vaccine only) 
• Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha - drop-in clinic - Thursday 17th June - 8am - 8pm
  Alice Way, Hounslow TW3 3UA

Booking and attendance details

• To guarantee a vaccine on the day we encourage local residents to register, where a booking link is provided above. Bookings at these sites will be prioritised.
• Local booking links and more information for NW London residents will be distributed by each local authority.
• Walk-ins are also welcome at each event during the times listed above.
• Please use public transport to get to the venues, as there is limited or no parking at these sites.
• We look forward to welcoming people to these events and ask that where possible you bring ID and your NHS number. If you are not registered with a GP or don't have an NHS number you can still book or walk-in.
• Queues will be socially distanced and we ask that you wear a mask for the duration of your visit. Please also bring a bottle of water if the weather is warm, as you may need to queue.
• All our other vaccination centres will also be open on Saturday, so if you have already booked an appointment, please make sure you keep it.

We are approaching the fourth anniversary of the Grenfell fire, our thoughts and prayers are with the whole community of North Kensington as we remember the 72 lives lost.

Difficult feelings and thoughts often surface around anniversaries and it is particularly hard this year as the community is still somewhat restricted to gather in person and grieve together. 

These leaflets from the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service offer some advice for looking after yourself and others, during this difficult time and information on reaching out to NHS services. For individuals and for families.

Women in North Kensington are invited to join a workshop on Menopause management led by a local GP.

The session will cover the key aspects of menopause and also allow lots of time to ask questions ina safe space.

Join us on 28 June at 11.30am on zoom. Click here to join http://bit.ly/workshop-menopause 

Millions of people have now received a Covid-19 vaccine, which is the best way to stay safe and protect yourself from coronavirus. 

How much does the vaccine protect me?

The COVID-19 vaccine reduces the chance of you becoming critically ill from coronavirus. You may still catch the virus but it is much less likely that you will need hospitalisation.

It is important that you come back for your second jab

Once you’ve had your first dose of Covid-19 vaccine you will need a second dose for longer lasting, maximum protection. You need to have the same type of vaccine for both doses.

It may take a few weeks for your body to build up some protection from the vaccine.

Do I need to socially distance and wear a mask after both doses?

Yes. Full protection from the vaccine kicks in around a week or two after the second dose but some people may still catch coronavirus, however it will be much less serious with the protection of the vaccine. We also don’t know how much the vaccine reduces the risk of you passing on the virus.

Finally, there is no evidence that new strains of the virus are not resistant to the vaccines we have at the moment, but this is still being monitored carefully.

Continue to protect yourself and others

To help to stop the spread, continue to:

• wear a face mask
• practise social distancing
• wash your hands carefully and regularly
• open windows to let fresh air in
• get tested – if you have any symptoms of coronavirus or have been in contact with someone who has.

Local GP practices in North Kensington offer extra healthcare services to people affected by Grenfell.  We are now reviewing these services to see if they continue to provide what local people need. The services we are reviewing are:

Extended appointments
Longer GP appointments at practices in North Kensington for Grenfell affected patients. These appointments can be anywhere between 5-60 minutes depending on your needs.

Enhanced health checks
An in-depth review of your physical, emotional and mental health. The check can detect the early signs of many health conditions and also support healthier living.

We’d like to hear from you.

You can give us your views in a number of ways, to complete our online survey click here – https://forms.gle/583huWLA69g2aWtZ9

Join one of our feedback sessions

We are also holding online or face to face in line with national restrictions throughout May. Simply join an online session via the zoom link below, if you'd like to register your place at a face to face event email us at wlccg.nkrt@nhs.net.

In person sessions - please register your place

Zoom sessions - no booking required

We appreciate you taking the time to tell us your views so we can shape services for the future.

From the NHS in North Kensington we’d like to wish a heartfelt Eid Mubarak to all the local community celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr today.

We hope it brings peace, prosperity and happiness to you and your families in what has been a challenging year for us all.

Stay safe during the Eid celebrations and continue to follow national guidance to protect your family and loved ones throughout the festival.

A Message from Dr Meena Nathan, North Kensington GP

It continues to be a difficult time for many people and there are additional stressors to the North Kensington community including the recent restart of the Public Inquiry

We would encourage people to be particularly mindful of their emotional and mental health and wellbeing, and those of their loved ones too.

The NHS is here to help, please reach out to one of our services.

• If you or someone you know needs to talk, please get in touch with the NHS Grenfell Health & Wellbeing Service, open Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm on 020 8637 6279.
• If you would like to speak to your GP you can book an extended 30 minute appointment in North Kensington. You can also book in for a Health Check.
• Take time out to take care of yourself; going for a walk and getting enough daylight, speaking with friends or neighbours and getting a good night’s rest can all help. The Sleepio app supports people to get their sleep back on track, see more information in the attached document. There are also other sleep and guided meditation tools your GP can refer you to. You can also access the self-care directory for local activities in the area www.kcsc.org.uk/self-care-directory.
• The Public Inquiry is also providing free counselling telephone support & zoom drop in sessions each day through Hestia. Find out more information by calling 0800 246 5617 or visiting www.hestia.org/grenfell-support  

Why is it important I have both doses of the vaccine?

It's important you have both doses of the vaccine to ensure you have the maximum level of protection from Coronavirus.

When will I have my second vaccine booked?

If your GP booked you in for your first vaccine they will also book you for your second dose 11-12 weeks later. Please note your GP may not call to book you in until close to the time your second vaccine is due at 11-12 weeks. We recognise this is causing concern and thank you for your patience.

If you booked your first vaccine through one of the online booking systems, you will be able to book your second vaccine for 11-12 weeks later through the national booking system. You can do this as soon as the day after you have had your first vaccine. 

What happens if more than 12 weeks passes before I have my second vaccine?

If for any reason you miss having your second vaccine 12 weeks after your first, please make sure you book-in and have it as soon as possible. 

Where will I go for my second vaccine?

It’s quick and simple to book at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination or by phoning 119, and the vaccines are safe and effective.

If you already have an appointment over the coming weeks, whether for your first or second dose, this remains in place and it’s really important that you attend it as planned.

You will need to return to the same venue that you had your first vaccine for your second.

I haven't had my first jab?

If you are 50 or over, have a health condition that puts you at greater risk, or are a health or social care worker – and you haven’t booked your first dose yet, the time to do so is right now.

People eligible for the vaccine now are:

• people aged 50 and over

• who are at high risk from coronavirus (clinically extremely vulnerable)

• people who are at moderate risk from coronavirus (clinically vulnerable)

• people who live or work in care homes

• health and social care workers

• people who are eligible for Carer's Allowance – find out more about Carer's allowance on GOV.UK

The #MyVaccineStory series aims to tell the stories of residents & health & social care staff who have decided to take up their vaccine, the reasons why and how they now feel about it.

Name: Terry Ives
Age: 36
Job title: GP Practice staff Kensington & Chelsea
 
Q1. How did you feel when you received your invitation for your vaccine?
Nervous, scared - not sure if i wanted to do it. Wasn’t convinced or happy to take it which is why I initially declined.

Q2. What changed  your mind?
I didn’t want it and was against it. However in the space of a week 3 highly vulnerable people in my family who never leave there home tested positive for Covid, that just made me realise how scary this is and how we all need to protect the vulnerable. 

Q3. What information did you use or who did you speak to?
I spoke to all the doctors at my surgery that I work at and asked them why they got it. It made me realise that if the professionals are taking it, I should be too.

Q4. How was the experience of having your vaccine?
The experience was nerve wracking for me as I’m not a fan of needles, however the doctor who gave me my vaccine was nice, kind and answered all my questions and queries.

Q5. What would you say to others unsure?
I would say its natural to feel unsure, it's a new thing however speak to professionals/doctors about it, they know more then your average person would. 

Q6. How do you feel now you have been vaccinated?
Honestly I feel like a have a little shield on my back. I still wash my hands, wear masks but I just  feel that little bit better protected and happier.

Would you like to share your experience? Get in touch - email sarah.flynn3@nhs.net.

Last Thursday over 50 staff and from local voluntary and community groups in North Kensington attended a workshop on the roll out of the Covid-19 vaccine organised by the NHS in partnership with NHS Health Partners.

Local GPs Dr Manpreet Bains and Dr Joan St John along with Reverend Mike Long joined the discussion to answer any questions and discuss any concerns people have.

The workshop was a direct response to requests made by Health Partners to have clear information and reassurance from clinicians to address the concerns of BAME communities in the area. It was also designed to address concerns from GPs who highlighted low uptake of the vaccine amongst some communities and a general concern that misinformation has left patients reluctant to come forward.

What we covered

• information about the vaccine, types of vaccine, process and priority groups
• the safety of the vaccine, side effects, how long it protects you for, how effective it is
• if the vaccine was safe for pregnant women and those with auto immune conditions choice of vaccines etc.
• questions from a religious/faith perspective.

Many of the staff and volunteers who attended are now feeling motivated to book their appointment and encourage others to too.

Howard Jeffrey, Chair of the Pepper Pot Centre

“As someone who works in North Kensington and has been vaccinated, I was being asked a lot of questions about the new vaccine. I think it’s really important for people to have information from the right sources and the facts, so I really welcomed this workshop.

The session worked really well, we had plenty of time for questions and with local GPs and faith leaders present all bases were covered including religious and cultural factors at play. It’s personal choice but I feel some people will be moved to have the vaccine now”.

Ewa Kasjanowicz, Community Champions Project Manager

"I found the workshop very interesting. It was good to hear the views of people like Reverend Mike Long on the role of faith and religion and the vaccine. It wouldn't have crossed my mind to get people like him involved. 

What I will take back is 'even the queen has had the vaccination'. This is something I can use on my conversations with residents."

Information

Information on the vaccine is available here including our FAQ. 
For upcoming events come back to our website. 

Joint advice from the NHS and law enforcement agencies on protecting yourself from COVID-19 cons.

In the UK, coronavirus vaccines will only be available via the National Health Service.

You can be contacted by the NHS, your employer, a GP surgery or pharmacy local to you, to receive your vaccine. Remember, the vaccine is free of charge. At no point will you be asked to pay.

•              The NHS will never ask you for your bank account or card details.

•              The NHS will never ask you for your PIN or banking password.

•              The NHS will never arrive unannounced at your home to administer the vaccine.

•              The NHS will never ask you to prove your identity by sending copies of personal documents such as your passport, driving licence, bills or pay slips.

If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent, hang up. If you are suspicious about an email you have received, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk. Suspicious text messages should be forwarded to the number 7726 which is free of charge.

If you believe you are the victim of a fraud, please report this to Action Fraud as soon as possible by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk

The NCSC is asking people to report suspect emails to its Suspicious Email Reporting Service simply by forwarding them to report@phishing.gov.uk. All emails forwarded to the service are analysed and if they are found to link to malicious content, it will be taken down or blocked, helping prevent future victims of crime.

The Suspicious Email Reporting Service is a world first which was launched last April by the NCSC in conjunction with the City of London Police. It has now received more than four million emails from the public, leading to the removal of over 26,000 scams and over 49,000 links to malicious content.

We are holding a workshop to give community group staff and volunteers information about the Covid-19 vaccine and its roll out on Thursday 28th January at 2.30 pm - 3.30 pm.

The workshop will be held by our local GPs and this will be your chance to ask them any questions about the vaccine or clarify any concerns about it. We will also discuss how we can encourage people, particularly those from BAME communities to take the vaccine as and when they are offered it.

How to join

The link to join is also below – no registration needed.  
Microsoft Teams meeting - join on your computer or mobile app

Click here to join the meeting

Link - http://bit.ly/3t0GUwC 

Rapid community testing for those critical workers without Coronavirus symptoms is being offered across Kensington and Chelsea.

Testing is available for those people who have:

• no symptoms
• who currently cannot work from home
• critical workers
• essential retail workers
• tradespeople who enter people’s homes.

Please do not attend one of these sites if you have Coronavirus symptoms.

Location

Kensington Leisure Centre, Silchester Road, W10 6EX
From 10am to 4pm seven days a week.

To book and for other centres in Kensington and Chelsea visit:

https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/newsroom/all-council-statements/rapid-community-testing-those-critical-workers-without-coronavirus

It is perfectly normal to feel upset, anxious or confused at times. Whatever you are feeling is valid these are uncertain times for everyone.

Aswell as NHS services, support is available through a range of free resources and online tools to help you cope and stay mentally well from Good Thinking, Every Mind Matters, and NHS wellbeing webinars.

If you need urgent help or feel more comfortable talking to someone you don’t know, then use one of the following helplines:

• Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service: 020 8637 6279
  Free, confidential service available 24 hours a day w​​hether you need urgent help or just to chat
• Samaritans: 116 123
  Whatever problems you are facing Samaritans are there to listen.
• SHOUT: Text 'Shout' to 85258
  Text service for support with any mental health concern (it will not show up on your bill).
• CRUSE: 0808 808 1677
  Support and advice if you are grieving or dealing with bereavement and loss of a loved one.
• Switchboard helpline: 0300 330 0630
  The LGBT+ helpline is open daily from 10am-10pm.

We are aware that some people are receiving suspicious calls and text messages offering the COVID-19 vaccination.

To protect yourself and your family members from fraud and criminals, remember the following points.

• The vaccine is only available on the NHS for free to people in priority groups, and the NHS will contact you when it is your turn. Anyone offering a paid-for vaccine is committing a crime. 
• The NHS will never ask you to press a button on your keypad or send a text to confirm you want the vaccine, and never ask for payment or for your bank details.
• At the moment we are also not making house calls to deliver or discuss the vaccine. Anyone offering this now is committing a crime.

If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent, hang up. If you believe you have been the victim of fraud or identity theft you should report this directly to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. Where the victim is vulnerable, and particularly if you are worried that someone has or might come to your house, report it to the Police online or by calling 101.

The NHS is very busy responding to the coronavirus pandemic and, at certain times, your GP practice may need to prioritise patients with the most urgent health needs.

If you have a health issue that isn’t urgent, advice is available on the NHS website www.nhs.uk or NHS app or you can speak to your local pharmacist. You can also use e-consult which is available through our practice website. If you aren’t sure what to do, please contact the practice who can advise you on how to get the help you need.

Please continue to attend tests, vaccinations and screening when invited. 

111 is also available 24/7 for urgent health advice, and 999 is for emergencies.

Thank you in advance.

We are working to vaccinate everyone in the first priority group (those over 80 and at high risk) as quickly as possible. This will take time but we are committed to reaching everyone in this group by the end of February 2021.

We know it can be frustrating to see some people being offered the vaccine when you have not yet heard about your own; we are opening all our vaccination sites as quickly as possible and we will get to you soon.

We will also start to vaccinate those over 75 from early February, but again this will take time to get to everyone, please bear with us.

Your appointment

The NHS will contact you when we are able to offer you an appointment, this will either be a letter or phone call from your GP.

If you miss the phone call please don’t worry, we will call again or send you a letter.

Some people may receive two invites. If this happens, please pick the location you would prefer to go to for your vaccination and follow the booking-in advice provided. You can ignore the second invite.

Travelling to and from a vaccination site is essential travel, but please remember to wear a face mask when visiting and adhere to social distancing measures.

Beware of scams

We are also aware of several reports of people being contacted by fraudsters offering the Covid19 vaccine. The reports show text messages being sent providing a link for people to register their details to apply for the vaccine, some of which require payment.

These text messages and links are not sent from, or linked to, the NHS. 

Please note the NHS will:

• Never ask you to press a button on your keypad or send a text asking you to confirm you want the vaccine
• Never ask for payment for the vaccine or for your bank details.

If you receive a text message from an unfamiliar number:

• Do not respond to it or click on any links
• Do not enter any personal or log on details
• Do not make any payment​​​​​

Timescales

It will take time to vaccinate everyone in this first group. The phased vaccine supply means vaccinations will take place between January and April – so please be aware you may not be called until later in the year.

Questions?

View our Frequently asked Questions here.

Further to Boris Johnson’s announcement yesterday and the high level of cases in North West London, it’s absolutely vital that everyone follows the new national lockdown guidance.

The key message is to stay at home, the single most important action we can all take to protect the NHS and save lives.

Below is a summary of the guidance, you must not leave, or be outside of your home except where necessary. You may leave the home to:

• shop for basic necessities, for you or a vulnerable person
• go to work, or provide voluntary or charitable services, if you cannot do so from home
• exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person, this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area.
• meet your support bubble or childcare bubble where necessary, but only if you are legally permitted to form one
• seek medical assistance or avoid injury, illness or risk of harm - including domestic abuse
• attend education or childcare - for those eligible
• The NHS continues to be open and so if you have a health concern it’s important you continue to access our services, you can speak to your GP in the first instance.

Meeting others

You cannot leave your home to meet socially with anyone you do not live with or are not in a support bubble with (if you are legally permitted to form one). You may exercise on your own, with one other person, or with your household or support bubble.

For more information visit - ​www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home#summary-what-you-can-and-cannot-do-during-the-national-lockdown

Here is a useful guide of what to do if you suspect you have coronavirus.

Click here to open.

Accessing health advice

The NHS is open over Christmas, if you need health advice speak to your GP.

If you have an urgent, but not life-threatening medical need, contact NHS 111 before going to A&E. Call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.

NHS 111 can:

• arrange an urgent A&E appointment so you don't have to wait.
• make direct appointments with different health services - e.g Urgent Treatment Centres, your GP, mental health crisis services, dental services and pharmacists for urgent repeat prescriptions
• If needed, send an ambulance.

NHS services in North Kensington over Christmas:

Last week, the NHS in NW London started to deliver the Covid-19 vaccine, in line with the government’s priority list of which people will get it first. A total of of 8000 vaccinations were given – which is a tremendous effort from all involved. This is a very exciting development and we want to be clear about how it will work for local people.

The NHS will get in touch with you directly when it is your turn to be vaccinated.

Please don’t contact your doctor or the NHS asking about vaccination; this is not a service that you are able to book in advance. The NHS will contact you when your turn comes in the months ahead. If you are contacted, please do attend the appointment.

We would encourage those over 80 and in the government’s priority list to be ready to accept their invite when called by their GP, reading the covid19 vaccination guide for adults leaflet is a god way to prepare – you can find this leaflet here.

You can also hear local GP Genevieve Small talk about her experience of having the vaccine.

Covid-19 is still very prevalent and highly infectious: the risk of catching it is the same as ever for people who have not been vaccinated.

In the meantime, it is vitally important that we all continue to follow the national public health guidance:

• wash your hands regularly
• wear a face covering in enclosed spaces
• maintain safe social distancing.
  Timings

It will take time to vaccinate everyone in this first group. The phased vaccine supply means the bulk of vaccinations for high risk groups are likely to take place between January and April – so please be aware you may not be called until then.

FAQs - https://www.nwlondonccgs.nhs.uk/coronavirus/nhs-covid-19-vaccination-programme

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service has teamed up with CNWL’s Recovery & Wellbeing College, the Volunteer Centre, the Venture Community Association and Community Champions to offer a programme of free workshops that focus on wellbeing for the Grenfell community.

All the courses will take place online and are open to anyone living in Kensington and Chelsea. They are free to attend.

Here’s how to book your place:

Call the Recovery & Wellbeing College admissions office on 020 3214 5686

Grenfell Health & Wellbeing Service on 020 8637 6279 or email recoverycollege.cnwl@nhs.net

Poster to display & share:

_______________________________________________________________________________________

The British Fatwa Council has issued a fatwa permitting the nasal flu vaccine for use in children.

The adult flu vaccine does not contain porcine gelatin but the nasal spray spray given to children does.

Dr Musharraf Hussain Al-Azhari, Director of the British Fatwa Council, issued a statement on 12 October 2020 stating that:

“…this is for a medical purpose; it’s not consumption or eating. The nasal vaccine is an important preventative measure that has been shown empirically to reduce a lot of suffering in vulnerable children. This then falls under the well-known category of ‘darurah’ necessity, required and needed…

…Considering this evidence, we conclude the nasal flu vaccine containing porcine gelatine is permissible for use.”

The British Fatwa Council provides guidance on personal, family and business-related issues that Muslims may face in daily life. A Fatwa, in Islam, is a formal ruling or interpretation on a point of Islamic law, based on evidence from Islamic texts, given by a qualified legal scholar.  Some Muslim communities were concerned about the flu nasal spray because it uses a small amount of gelatine as a stabiliser.

However the fatwa concludes that the nasal flu vaccine is permissible for use due to its medical benefits.

The full fatwa can be read here

Flu can be horrible for young children and they can easily pass it on to those around them who could be vulnerable. The free flu nasal spray is the best way to protect your child and can prevent the spread of the virus.

Ask your GP about your child's free flu nasal spray.

The frequently asked questions here may also answer some of your questions about getting the flu vaccination this winter.

For more advice on the flu vaccine for children visit the NHS website here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/child-flu-vaccine/ 

Further to Boris Johnson's announcement on the 4 January we are now in a national lockdown. This means you should stay at home and only leave the house for essential reasons.

The services available in North Kensington have adapted and continue to operate to see residents since the outbreak of coronavirus, below is an update for each NHS service.

Protecting yourself and your family
The health of the local community is of the utmost importance. Please ensure you and your household are protecting yourselves and others by following the guidance regarding social distancing, self-isolation and testing. If you think you have coronavirus please follow the guidance below.

Getting help
If you have any questions about what support is available, you can call the Covid Hub Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm; Saturday and Sunday between 10am and 4pm on 020 7361 4326 or by emailing C19Hub@rbkc.gov.uk.

You can also read what is available in your borough in RBKC's COVID-19 advice and support handbook. 

There's also help available at the Family Information Service. 

Service Updates
Below is an outline of services available in North Kensington available to print here.

This self-care week it's important to reflect on caring for ourselves better. Looking after your health and your family’s health and wellbeing is so important, take one day at a time and try to build in some of the simple ideas below or read our leaflet for inspiration.

Sunlight, fresh air and nature

• Spending time outside especially in daylight can help to reduce stress and can also help you sleep better at night.

• Take a break during the day and go for a walk or run, sit in the park or your garden, or do some gardening. If you have children take them to the park so they can exercise and stay active.

Keep in touch with friends, family and neighbours

• Go for a walk with family, cook together, watch a film, read a book, play a game or get creative and try painting together.
• If you live alone try telephone or video calling friends and family regularly, speak to your neighbours and local shop owners and reach out to local charities if you’re feeling isolated.

Cook and eat healthily

• Life is busy but "fast food" meals don’t always have the right kinds of calories and nutrients our bodies need. Even if it’s only once a week, make a meal from all fresh ingredients for yourself and your family, maybe do it together! Cooking can also be a good way to relax.
• Eat lots of fruit and vegetables. A range of nutrients and vitamins can help to boost immunity.

Try to stay busy

• It’s easy to get bored when you’re at home for long periods of time, but there’s lots that can help to keep you entertained– read books, listen to podcasts or an album or your favourite show. Perhaps use the time to have a clear out or start a new project at home.
• Finding ways to be creative will also help your well-being such as playing an instrument or writing.

Deal with any health worries

• If you are worried about any health issue about you or your family then please get in touch with your GP now.
• GP practices are open as usual even during the lockdown. Your GP will likely telephone you for your appointment in the first instance but you can also still have a face to face appointment if you need to.

Sleep well

• Sleep can have a huge effect on how we feel emotionally and physically. Try to keep a regular bed time and make sure your room is set up to get a good sleep (an eye mask and ear plugs might help), avoid screen time before and too much caffeine in the day.
• Perhaps read a book or take a bath or shower to help you relax.

Get organised

• Getting organised is a great first step to helping us feel better. A small change, like keeping a planner or a calendar on the fridge can help you write down all your jobs and thoughts, freeing your mind and making your life a bit more organised.

Talk to someone

• Most importantly reach out if you need help. That could mean being honest with friends and family about how you’re feeling if you’re having a bad day.
• If you feel like you’re having more bad days than good, then there are a range of organisations and professionals that can help to support you through it.
  • Speak to your GP

  • Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service – 020 8637 6279 (8am to 8pm), our of hours call 0800 0234 650, self-referral form

  • Community living well  - call 020 3317 4200, self-referral form

  • Samaritans – call 116 123 24 hours a day

Below are the key messages for local residents following the change in national guidance.

The national lockdown means only going out for:

• Work if you cannot work from home
• For food, essentials and medical reasons or appointments (including the flu jab)
• Exercise
• Providing care for vulnerable people

The NHS is open

• NHS continues to be open for all health concerns. People should continue to call their GP now if they need to.
• Our message to residents is if you have been called for an appointment, it is because you need it. Please make sure you attend if you are asked to do so – it is much safer to attend hospital than not to come in due to misplaced fears.

Covid-19 testing

• If you have symptoms go home, self-isolate and book a test.
• There is a testing centre at Malton Road which is open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm. Kensington Olympia also has a test centre open up to four days a week between 10.30am and 3.30pm.  
• Residents must book an appointment at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test  or call 119.

Mental health and support

We know this is going to be a difficult time for people particularly in the darker days of winter, there is a range of mental health and wellbeing support available.

• Looking after yourself & your family
• Grenfell Health and Wellbeing service – 020 8637 6279 (8am to 8pm), our of hours call 0800 0234 650, self-referral form
• Community living well  - call 020 3317 4200, self-referral form
• Samaritans – call 116 123, 24 hours a day
• Urgent mental health support any time of the day call 020 8637 6279

Quarterly report - October 2020

Quarterly we produce a round-up of feedback we've had from the community and what action the NHS North Kensington Recovery team has taken to improve health services for local people or address any issues that have arisen. This feedback will come from individuals, service user groups, the local community and voluntary sectory and partner organisations.

See this month's 'You Said We Did' below:

The flu can be serious                        

The flu can be serious, each year the virus kills 11,000 people on average and hospitalises thousands more. The flu virus spreads from person to person, even amongst those not showing symptoms.

Our campaign - #FightingFluTogether

We're delighted to have the support of local residents in our #FightingFluTogether campaign. Look out for Abdullahi, Patricia and Naima across North Kensington spreading the word of the importance of people getting their flu jab and to make sure we are looking after eachother.

The symptoms of flu are:

• a sudden fever – a temperature of 38C or above
• an aching body
• feeling tired or exhausted
• a dry cough
• a sore throat
• a headache
• difficulty sleeping
• loss of appetite
• diarrhoea or tummy pain
• feeling sick and being sick

Who is at risk of complications?

Some people are more likely to develop potentially serious complications of flu, such as pneumonia (a lung infection) and the flu vaccine is the best protection for these people. People who are at risk are offered the free flu jab by the NHS.

If you are eligible for a free vaccination, your GP practice will contact you directly by letter or text to arrange it, or you can contact your local pharmacy to book an appointment.

Who is eligible for the FREE flu jab?

• adults aged 65 and over
• adults and children with certain medical conditions
• pregnant women
• people living with someone who's at high risk from coronavirus, on the NHS shielded patient list
• children aged 2 and 3, in primary school and children in year 7 (secondary school)

By having the flu vaccination, you will help protect yourself and others from what can be a severe, and sometimes fatal, illness which could lead to a hospital treatment.

Where to get your jab

Your GP practice will contact you by letter or text to book an appointment, invites will go out from the end of September throughout the flu season. You can contact your GP to find out when you will receive it.

You can also book an appointment at your local pharmacy if you’re over 18, find out which pharmacy you can go to https://myvaccinations.co.uk/  or through Boots online https://www.boots.com/online/pharmacy-services/winter-flu-jab-services ​.​​ 

 Resources

These resources can be downloaded and shared and presented to groups to help us #FightFluTogether.

• Flu Briefing pack
• Flu key messages
• Flu Q&A (1 October 2020)

Help us spread the word

Have you had your flu jab? Use the #FightingFluTogether hashtag to tell us on twitter and we will share with others @WLondonCCG.

Residents encouraged to sign up for the NHS App

The Health Help Now app is no longer available following a decision by the NHS in North West London to decommission the service. Residents across the region are encouraged to sign up for the NHS App instead.

Health Help Now was introduced to provide residents in North West London with digital support and signposting to a range of health services including symptom checkers, diabetes support and health advice. Unfortunately it has not been widely taken up across the eight boroughs and the local NHS no longer has the clinical resource to assure its clinical content or the financial resource to promote it.

In the light of these concerns, the local NHS engaged with stakeholders and undertook an equality and health inequalities analysis (EHIA) screening exercise to consider the viability and future of Health Help Now. Stakeholders expressed the views that the lack of clinical oversight rendered the app clinically unsafe; the app user base was too low to be financially sustainable; and that user numbers were unlikely to increase due to the lack of available promotional funding. The EHIA indicated that the lack of clinical oversight rendered the app clinically unsafe for all user groups.

The NHS in North West London therefore decided to decommission Health Help Now with effect from the end of June 2020.

Kevin Jarrold, Joint Chief Information Officer of North West London Health and Care Partnership said: “Following the decision to close Health Help Now we need to concentrate on encouraging people to download and use the national NHS App which offers an excellent alternative that is backed by NHS England and NHSX.”

Owned and run by the NHS, the NHS App is a simple and secure way for people to access a range of NHS services on a smartphone or tablet. These include repeat prescription ordering, appointment booking, symptom checkers, and advice about coronavirus. Depending on local arrangements, patients may also be able to access additional convenient features such as the ability to message their practice or healthcare professional and view their hospital and other healthcare appointments.

Patients are encouraged to download the NHS App from the App Store or Google Play. See more information about the NHS App here:

www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/nhs-services/the-nhs-app/

***Deadline extended to 15 October 2020***

West London CCG is again opening up applications from community, voluntary and faith organisations working in North Kensington, to join the NHS Health Partners Programme in a third round of recruitment.

The programme which launched at the end of 2019, brings organisations together with the common goal of supporting local people to improve their health and lead long and healthy lives. Here is a list of our current Health Partners.

What we do?

The work of the partners is informed by the needs of the community and the latest health data and evidence. Currently the programme is looking to address some of the issues which have occurred as a consequence of the current Covid-19 outbreak.

There are a range of benefits in becoming a Health Partner including training, development and support to develop projects and work that will help build community resilience in North Kensington.

Getting started

To become a Health Partner, there is some basic criteria we ask organisations to meet. An organisation will need to be a registered charity, voluntary or community group, social enterprise or community interest company, or registered social landlord. They will also need to meet certain criteria such as having a safeguarding policy and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

The CCG can support and advise any organisations that wish to become a Health Partner to meet the criteria to enable them to do so.

Contact us

Want to get involved? We’d love to work with your organisation, email us and we’ll get back in touch wlccg.nkrt@nhs.net. The deadline is 15 October 2020

It's been fifteen weeks since we shut our doors, but our support for the local community hasn't stopped. Whilst we aren't able to deliver the extensive activities that we know are so important for the development of children and young people, our mentoring and holistic support has continued.

It hasn't been easy. Our approach is based on building and maintaining relationships and trust, and that requires face-to-face communication whenever possible. Thankfully, because our approach is also based on giving long-term support, it is precisely those established relationships that have allowed us to adapt to a new environment. This is as much a testament to the people using our services as it is to our staff and volunteers.

With the suspension of our normal services, we furloughed the majority of our staff in order to ensure that we're in the financial position to open our doors, when the time comes. As we develop new approaches to deliver support remotely, we've un-furloughed some staff and will phase in the remainder of the team as service delivery increases or when we resume 'normal' services, in whatever form they take.

Our staff, volunteers and supporters have been incredible in these unprecedented times. This isn't the first time they've been asked to rise to a very difficult, extraordinary challenge, and we couldn't be prouder of what they're accomplishing, despite all of the hurdles in place.

Services during COVID-19

Food Deliveries

We are using our regular food deliveries from FareShare and City Harvest (normally used for our cooking projects) to put together food parcels for 20 of our most vulnerable families. These are delivered contact-free twice weekly, and have been a lifeline for at-risk families who are unable to leave home to access foodbanks or use their food vouchers.

Virtual Classroom

We launched our Virtual Classroom in April, which has taken the approach of our Homework Club one step further and seen our homework support volunteers turned into teachers and tutors, working online one-on-one and in small groups with local children.  We are now tutoring 45 children, 3 days a week, and delivering an on line games session and parents forum as part of this offer.

Toys and Games Drop

We have been carrying out a safe distribution of donated toys, games, crafts and more, contact-free to local families, helping parents to keep their children engaged and entertained.

Care Calls

Our team is in regular contact with our service users, making weekly (or more often) calls to those we know who are struggling most at this very difficult time. While the calls are often simply checking in, they’ve also taken the form of cooking lessons and singing sessions and have played an important role in enabling us to identify issues as they arise, aiding us in referring service users onto appropriate support services, such as foodbanks and Social Services.

Magic Mum's

We have recently restarted our weekly Magic Mum’s sessions on line. Meeting with our Mums to provide support and guidance every Thursday between 11.00-12.30. In addition to this, we are launching an on line Community Leadership course.

Launching new on-line Community Leadership Course

Sound Systems is a community leadership course with a difference. It aims to support all women in the community who have an idea for a community project. This short 4 week course will cover: Community leadership skills, writing a risk assessment, understanding safeguarding policies and completing you own personal development plan. On completion, you will also have access to 3 inspiring group coaching sessions.

The course will be delivered online, via youtube. You can watch at your own pace and in your own time. You just need access to a computer and wifi, our experienced trainers and coaches will do the rest!

Youtube Workshop Launch Dates:

Session 1: 1 July
Session 2: 8 July
Session 3: 15 July
Session 4: 22 July

To register or find out more about Sound Systems please:

Email us: sound.systems@rpt.org.uk
Call us: 0207 229 2928

Find out more and how to access the Rugby Portobello Trust’s services including what is coming up this summer visit their website www.rugbyportobello.org.uk

North Kensington Health Partners came together virtually on Thursday 4 June to discuss building resilience in the community. The partners shared lessons learnt from Grenfell and Covid-19 that have helped to achieve this. The focus of the discussion was how they can collaborate and work with the NHS to continue to build resilience both during Covid-19 and beyond.

The partners also shared their concerns regarding the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) people, particularly in such a diverse community. A working group of Health Partners will look at Covid-19 inequalities and work with the NHS and other partners to co-design interventions to address these in North Kensington.

Further plans were agreed, one of which is to develop a ‘digital capacity building’ programme, also to address health inequalities. This will aim to improve access to technology and up skill individuals to access more health information and services online, working in partnership with the local GP network. 

Krishna Sarda, Head of Engagement  for the NHS in West London says, “these meetings with our Health Partners are invaluable and we are committed to tackling health inequalities together. Creating smaller sub-working groups which will lead on different areas will enable us to take actions forward and see results more quickly.”

The Health Partners will continue to meet for a number of focused virtual meetings over the coming months. More information coming soon – watch this space.

Interested in becoming a Health Partner or want to know more? Visit www.grenfell.nhs.uk/community/health-partners-programme or email contact wlccg.nkrt@nhs.net 

Read the latest update from the NHS in North Kensington where we reflect on the 3rd Anniversary of the tragedy that took place at Grenfell Tower and descibe the support that is available at this time.

Read the newsletter in full here.

We hope you will find this information helpful and that it will answer questions you may have.  If you would like more information on any of the information you have read about in the newsletter, please contact us at nwlccgs.communications.nwl@nhs.net

Grenfell anniversary – taking care of yourself and loved ones

The anniversary period is a difficult time for many in North Kensington. Everyone will react in different ways, but the NHS is here throughout this period and beyond to support you and your family.

Marking the anniversary

Marking the anniversary throughout this pandemic comes with additional challenges. When thinking about how we mark the third anniversary we must do so cautiously particularly to protect members of our community we know are disproportionately impacted by Covid-19.

This years celebrations are being led online and you can join from home, here is the schedule we realise it's not quite the same but we will be together in spirit.

Local NHS and public health guidance has been published to support, you can read it here.

Advice & support

It’s more important than ever you look after your mental and emotional health and wellbeing at this time. The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service has published some guides with some suggestions and advice that might help, click on the links below to download the information and share with others:

• Looking after yourself during the Grenfell anniversary
• Looking after your family during Grenfell anniversary

You can also watch this video:

• How to cope during the COVID-19 pandemic if you have experienced trauma

I need to speak to someone, or know someone else who needs help

If you or someone you know has been affected by Grenfell, and needs support, or you’d just like to have a chat you can call us on 020 8637 6279. You can also contact the NHS ‘Single Point of Access’ 24/7 including out of hours including weekends. The service is confidential and you are not required to give any personal details, call 0800 0234 650 or email cnw-tr.SPA@nhs.net.

You can find out more here grenfellwellbeing.com/contact-us

I have another health worry

If you are worried about any aspect of your health then speak to your GP in the first instance, you can request an extended appointment with your practice reception if you need more time.

Your GP can also book you in for an enhanced health check. These appointments are currently over the phone but will be back up and running physically as soon as possible.

If you need healthcare or treatment it’s important you contact the NHS

The NHS is here for you and is actively encouraging people not to hesitate in speaking to their GP or in an emergency, calling 999.

Our hospitals are well organised to support both Covid-19 and non Covid-19 patients safely. 

Our Health Partners Spectra, continue to offer free sexual health and well-being services and support and friendship throughout COVID-19, in this video John Dugdale Operations Manager  explains what’s on offer.

To find out more and to access any of the services on offer visit https://spectra-london.org.uk/  

A day in the life at the Volunteer Centre, Kensington & Chelsea

The Volunteer Centre Kensington & Chelsea (VCKC) has been at the forefront of the community response to the pandemic in K&C, working alongside our partners in the voluntary sector, the NHS and the Council; as well as local people in every part of the borough to tackle food insecurity, isolation, anxiety and depression.

While our volunteer programme is helping more people than ever to donate their time to help others, our specialist services are helping our clients cope with the challenges they faced before COVID-19, alongside the new ones created by the virus and the public health response to it.

New ways of doing things

Although some of our work has been put on hold, we’ve managed to find other ways to deliver our services; like many organisations supporting people’s mental health, our teams now call clients on the phone or via Zoom to check in and work through the issues they are experiencing. For some people this might be a quick chat every couple of days, for others a more substantial conversation a couple of times each day.

Community and Maternity Champions would normally be out and about on and around the Lancaster West and Silchester estates, supported by our professional team, but for the moment a lot of that energy and positivity has had to move online. We’ve found ways to run our parent and baby and yoga classes online, sent materials out so people can join in at home via Zoom (we’re working on a new origami offer!), and kept in touch to make sure everyone is coping (and to offer immediate support if they’re not).

Of course we’ve also had to look at where our staff are best placed to support and that has meant our outreach worker being available to help in the emergency food effort.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays we normally offer appointments for people who face barriers to volunteering so that they can sit down with an advisor who can help match their goals, skills and time to the right opportunity. They might have concerns about stigma and prejudice in the workplace, learning disabilities, or experiences of education that have held them back in life, a criminal record, or a lack of digital confidence. The Volunteer Centre would normally be a welcoming place to visit in person; even though we can’t offer that face-to-face contact at the moment we’re still a friendly voice on the other end of the phone!

Proud of our partners

Our community partners have done a brilliant job under the circumstances. Some have expanded what they offer to respond to new demand during the pandemic, such as doing shopping for vulnerable people who are isolating. Others have created completely new services (befriending online, for example), both offering new opportunities to volunteers. In some cases we’ve been asked to provide extra help, perhaps where a partner is trying to cope with a lot more volunteers than previously, or has employed a dedicated volunteer manager for the first time. Our colleagues in the NHS locally are also creating hundreds of new voluntary roles so for those comfortable online and looking for an opportunity to volunteer now is a good time!

The future

 We don’t think the future is going to look like the past, and we’re speaking to our clients and our partners about what it might look like. We get to know each person we work with really well, to understand where they are coming from and where they want to get to, and to design a plan for their recovery and wellbeing together, focusing on building that crucial sense of self-worth through regular achievement. For some their goals and the route to achieving them will be clear, but for most it will be more complex, and for a few they will try a large number of different activities, volunteering placements, workshops – interspersed with periods of being so unwell that they can’t engage regularly at all – before they have the good mental health that we’re all looking for.

It’s a privilege to see how people progress with the right opportunities.

Once forged, our relationships with our clients are something they can rely on when times are tough, as they are for many now – they know where we are and they pick up the phone to get help if they stumble, or just to share the good news about their most recent success. As always, we adapt to their needs and find flexible ways to provide support.

Volunteering

If you’re one of those people used to living a big chunk of their lives online, and if you have a consistent amount of time to give to others, then you can volunteer through us just as easily now as you could a couple of months ago. While a number of our voluntary sector partners have had to suspend some of their work, others have been able to move online and carry on their services and some are more in need of extra volunteers than ever before.

For more information visit www.voluntarywork.org.uk

We are so proud to see the incredible work from across the community and voluntary sector in North Kensington in response to the COVID-19 outbreak including from our Health Partners the Al Manaar Muslim Cultural Centre in North Kensington.

Here Abdurahman Sayed, CEO of the centre describes how they have mobilised to support local people, the amazing response they have recieved in turn and their upcoming plans.

In this video Abdurahman describes counselling support available in a variety of languages and support for the bereaved that is available at the Al Manaar. 

Organisations in North Kensington are finding ways to adapt their services to respond to the needs of the community during the outbreak. Chair of the The Pepper Pot Centre Howard Jeffrey MBE, takes us through an eventful day in the life of the charity based in Ladbroke Grove.

The Pepper Pot Centre was founded in 1981 by Pansy Jeffrey to combat discrimination, isolation, depression and loneliness amongst the growing generation of Caribbean older people (50+) and to help them to take charge of their own lives. It also provides a demonstration of how communities can preserve their heritage.

The Team - Zenawi Tadesse, Linton Mitchell, Marica Edwards and Soki Kombo.

Start of the day

6.30 am
Marcus Woods a member volunteer arrives to open up the centre so our cleaner can start preparing the premises for the hectic day ahead.

8.00am
Legendary Head Cook Marcia Edwards arrives for what must be more than her 2000 ^th shift at the kitchen. This is Marcia’s manor and she rules the roost!

Soon after arriving Marcia begins taking an inventory of our food and drink supplies. Food deliveries often arrive in the morning and it's her responsibility to be sure that all fruits and vegetables are fresh and that all the food, drink and condiments are being used before the expiry date.

9.00 am
By 9am the remainder of the kitchen staff arrive are now assembled. This is the time when the main preparation begins. Marcia supervises her kitchen staff as they prepare for the ‘Lunch Run’. This often involves making sauces, chopping and slicing all the vegetables and beginning to cook the dishes that take longer to prepare, such as the roasts and baked poultry, soups or desserts.

With Marcia at the helm the team glide around the kitchen like an F1 Mercedes car, the lunch preparations are progressing well and the kitchen is now full of the spicy aromas of the Caribbean! The staff at the Pepper Pot come from more than half a dozen Caribbean and African countries, so there’s lots of different accents in to be heard in the kitchen.    

10.15am
Right now Marcia is checking a fresh delivery from the charity Fareshare, that has pulled up to the Pepper Pot car park. It is her responsibility to make sure that the delivery includes exactly those items that were ordered, in the proper quantities. The Centre parking space is also a Fareshare hub, which means other charities also come a collect their deliveries during the ‘drop off’.

10.40am
Linton Mitchell a mercurial 'Soundman' from the 70's takes the mini bus to the Playground Theatre Café & Bar on Latimer Road which is run by Rima Sams. Rima is working with local food banks and charities to make free meals for local elderly and vulnerable people. 

The cafe is a buzz of activity and Linton collects enough food boxes for all the targeted Pepper Pot Centre members to have a good meal during the coming weekend as the centre is closed. On the way back, Linton pops into Big Ben to pick up some Caribbean provisions.

12.00pm
The food is cooked, packed and ready to go.  Linton takes command of the operation, this is his domain and he is responsible for delivering the lunch boxes to our eagerly awaiting members in our iconic mini bus which was donated by the National Lottery Fund.

13.20pm
Linton and the team return victorious, mission accomplished for another day. The service provides a crucial support mechanism for a targeted group of members aged between 71-95 years old, who are not only isolated but are quite lonely and confused during this period of uncertainty. The daily delivery breaks the cycle of isolation and also helps these elderly members to reconnect with their beloved centre.

13.25pm
The lunch rush is over and so the team have time to take a lunch break. They all stop for a bite to eat and recharge their batteries. The short break also provides an opportunity for the team to relax, take stock, have some banter and reflect on the day so far.

14.20pm
Pepper Pot receptionist Ernest Lewis brings news to the kitchen that Andreia Miguel, Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Food Referral Co-ordinator has just arrived with a range essential goodies for the kitchen including; rice, sugar,  pasta, wipes, surgical gloves and gel etc. This announcement is welcomed by a chorus of cheers.

15.10pm
An eagerly awaited phone call is received by centre manager Zenawi Tadesse, yes the news is good, Brooke Dobbyn the Grants Manager for the Kensington & Chelsea Foundation has just confirmed that our small funding application has been successful and we will receive some immediate funding. The actual donations come from LMAX Group, a Global Financial Technology company who have been based in W11 for 10 years and who wanted to offer funding support for local elderly people during the crisis. The slogan on their website reads 'Thank you NHS - In this together’.

15.40pm
In the kitchen, the clean down has started. While the kitchen staff are cleaning up, Marcia and Zenawi take the time to plan and review the menu for the following week. They have the easy banter of two colleagues who have worked together for over a decade and take this time to place food and drink orders for the following week.

16.35pm
At the end of the day, Zenawi announces the good news about the funding to the whole team...a second chorus of cheers go out. There is no such thing as an average day at the Pepper Pot Centre. The work is so diverse but everyone who works at the centre has a similar attitude. They work hard, put in the hours in and really care about what they are doing. Though often tough at the Pepper Pot, it’s never dull.  It has been a good day, but it starts all over again on Monday.

Thank you Howard and team for sharing this with us, for more information or to access services provided by The Pepper Pot Centre visit www.pepperpotcentre.org.uk.

Br Abdurahman Sayed, Al Manaar CEO shares a message at the start of Ramadam, which comes with different challenges this year in light of the current outbreak of coronavirus.

Watch the video in full below.

Ramadan this year runs from the evening of Thursday 23 April to the evening of Saturday 23 May. The Muslim Council of Britain has produced extensive guidance for those observing Ramadan this year, in light of Covid19. Their guidance includes general top tips and tips on studying and working from home. You can read all of this and more on their website.

Information for people with diabetes
The NHS North West London Know Diabetes Service have put together resources for individuals with diabetes who will be fasting during Ramadan.

Visit our website knowdiabetes.org.uk where you can find information on how to stay safe and healthy over Ramadan. Including:

Website www.knowdiabetes.org.uk/be-healthier/ramadan/

For those individuals who require further assistance with their medication, testing kits or dietary advice please ask speak to your local diabetes team  or contact  the Diabetes UK helpline on 0345 123 2399 or email helpline@diabetes.org.uk

Wishing you a Happy Ramadan.

We’re very proud of the response of our health partners at Bay 20 who are working collaboratively with others to deliver nutritious meals to people in North Kensington who need support at this time.

In this video Fiona, Debbie and Rhumel share how it all started and how it’s going.

The COVID-19 outbreak brings new challenges for people who are vulnerable in their own homes and may not be able to access support in the way they otherwise would. For some people self-isolating may increase their risk of harm, however, support is available.

Please see a range of resources below from our partners to help people who may otherwise be vulnerable to access help in Kensington & Chelsea:

Safegauarding Adults & reporting safeguarding concerns

Domestic abuse

Scamming

Please stay well and take care.

Read the latest newsletter from the NHS in North West London, which shares information on the changes that have been made to NHS services in North West London at the current time. These temporary changes will help to focus all efforts and resources on tackling the covid-19 outbreak.

Headlines include:

• recent changes to NHS services in North West London;
• information about a new Coronavirus Information Service on WhatsApp launched by the government;
• the latest NHS guidance on donating blood.

Read the newsletter in full here.

In addition, keep up to date with the latest health information and advice about coronavirus advice by visiting the NHS website

We hope you will find this information helpful and that it will answer questions you may have.  If you would like more information on any of the information you have read about in the newsletter, please contact us at nwlccgs.communications.nwl@nhs.net

Are you looking for information on coronavirus in easy read or a different language for someone?

The Government has published 'Stay at home' guidance in a variety of languages to make sure this important message reaches every part of our community. There is also an easy read version of the guidance.

Translations available in:

• Arabic
• French
• Cantonese
• Bengali
• Urdu
• Polish
• Punjabi

Many more languages available here

If you can't find the language you are looking for, Doctors of the World have translated the latest Public Health England guidance on their website. Click the link below to download and view:

• Spanish
• Farsi
• Somali

More available here.

Please share with anyone who may benefit from translated information.

Social isolation, less physical activity, unpredictability and changes in routine can all contribute to increasing stress. Many people including those without existing mental health needs may feel anxious about this impact.

If you are receiving services for your mental health, learning disability or autism and are worried about the impact of isolation please contact your keyworker or care coordinator to review your care plan. If you have additional needs please contact your key worker or care coordinator to develop a safety or crisis plan.

Understandably, you may find that shielding and distancing can be boring or frustrating. You may find your mood and feelings are affected and you may feel low, worried or have problems sleeping and you might miss being outside with other people.

At times like these, it can be easy to fall into unhealthy patterns of behaviour which in turn can make you feel worse.

There are some simple things you can do that may help, to stay mentally and physically active during this time such as:

• for ideas of exercises you can do at home, if you have access to the internet visit the NHS website for ideas

• spend time doing things you enjoy – this might include reading, cooking, other indoor hobbies or listening to favourite radio programmes or watching TV

• try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, drink enough water, exercise regularly, and try to avoid smoking, alcohol and drugs

• try spending time with the windows open to let in the fresh air, arranging space to sit and see a nice view (if possible) and get some natural sunlight, or get out into any private space.

• Keep at least 2 metres away from your neighbours and household members if you are sitting on your doorstep

What steps can you take to stay connected with family and friends during this time?

Draw on support you might have through your friends, family and other networks during this time. Try to stay in touch with those around you over the phone, by post, or online. Let people know how you would like to stay in touch and build that into your routine. This is also important in looking after your mental wellbeing and you may find it helpful to talk to them about how you are feeling if you want to.

Remember it is okay to share your concerns with others you trust and in doing so you may end up providing support to them too. Or you might want to try an NHS recommended helpline.

Keeping informed

Constantly watching the news can make you feel more worried. If you think it is affecting you, try to limit the time you spend watching, reading, or listening to media coverage of the outbreak. It may help to only check the news at set times or limiting this to a couple of times a day.

Try to focus on the things you can control, such as your behaviour, who you speak to and who you get information from. 

Every Mind Matters provides simple tips and advice to start taking better care of your mental health.

When to get help

If you are struggling with your mental health. The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing is here to help, there may be some slight changes to services but there is always someone available to talk​​​​​​​.

You can access the following services:

• 8am-8pm Monday to Friday, weekends 9am-8pm - call the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service on 020 8637 6279 or by e-mail Grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net.
• Out of hours - 8pm to 8am adults should call the NHS Single Point of Access for Adult Mental Health and the Grenfell Support line on 0800 0234 650 or e-mail cnw-tr.SPA@nhs.net. If a child or a young person up to the age of 18 years of age needs help or anyone else has a concern they should call the CAMHS Gateway Service on 020 3028 8475.

The NHS mental health and wellbeing advice website for self-assessment, audio guides and tools that you can use.

If you are still struggling after several weeks and it is affecting your daily life, please contact NHS 111 online or your GP. If you have no internet access, you should call NHS 111.

​​​​​​

See the latest update from the NHS in North Kensington. In this issue we cover the launch of the Health Partners Programme earlier this month as well as the latest news on the Coronavirus. 

Read the newsletter in full.

Sign up to receive these emails directly to your inbox, email us at wlccg.nkr@nhs.net 

Tell us your views on the future design of palliative care services

West London CCG would like to share our current thinking for how we address the challenges faced by palliative care services in these areas as part of our on-going review.

We are in agreement that reaching only 48% of patients who may have a palliative care need is not good enough. This is an opportunity to re-design our services to make sure they reach more people, are better co-ordinated and that they are responsive in an emergency and no matter the time of day. We are proposing a number of potential scenarios that we would like to hear your views on as we progress to a future model of care.

 ​​​​​​​Please read our Involvement Document here and complete the survey online or in print before Friday 13^th March 2020.

COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It's caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What's the risk of coronavirus in the UK?

The UK Chief Medical Officers have raised the risk to the public from low to moderate.

Health professionals are working to contact anyone who has been in close contact with people who have coronavirus.

Guidance

• If you have been in contact with someone with coronavirus or have returned from an affected area identified by the Chief Medical Officer as high risk and you are feeling unwell with a cough, difficulty breathing or fever, stay at home and use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service or call NHS 111.
• Wash your hands more often than usual, for 20 seconds using soap and hot water, particularly after coughing, sneezing and blowing your nose, or after being in public areas where other people are doing so. Use hand sanitiser if that’s all you have access to.
• To reduce the spread of germs when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, or your sleeve (not your hands) if you don’t have a tissue, and throw the tissue away immediately. Then wash your hands or use a hand sanitising gel.
• Clean and disinfect regularly touched objects and surfaces using your regular cleaning products to reduce the risk of passing the infection on to other people.
• At the current time and based on our understanding of what is known of COVID-19 and other similar respiratory viruses, it is likely that older people and those with chronic medical conditions may be vulnerable to severe disease. As more information emerges, recommendations may change.

 ​​​​For informaiton on how coronavirus is spread and advice on meeting in public visit the nhs website for the latest information visit www.nhs.uk

NHS 111 has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do visit 111.nhs.uk. 

Residents Associations, and voluntary and community and faith organisations from North Kensington are joining forces with the NHS in a new Health Partners programme to work together to improve the health and wellbeing of local residents and build the resilience of the community as a whole.

At the launch event held on the 28 February 2020, the 18 Health Partners came together to celebrate the launch of new partnership and watch a new film produced by the NHS which shows residents of Grenfell Tower, the bereaved and the wider community talking about the impact of the fire on their lives, the difficulties they have faced, how the NHS has helped them and what we need to do in the future.  Attendees included bereaved and survivors, as well as others who have been impacted directly.

Louise Proctor, Managing Director of West London CCG, who developed the programme, said: “The thoughts and views captured in the film are why we need the Health Partners Programme. It is the start of a new partnership, but it builds on long local history of strong community and local organisations seeking to support residents and the emergence of new groups that have started in response to the tragedy.

“It’s born out of a recognition that the only way we will make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of our local population is to harness the skills, talents and knowledge of those individuals and organisation who are already there making a real difference to their communities.”

Filsan Ali, Director at Midaye Somali Development Network, added: “We support Health Partners as it is a great opportunity for community organisations to work in partnership with the NHS to improve the health and wellbeing of our communities.”

The Health Partners Programme aims to

• strengthen the wellbeing of individuals, families and the community
• improve the understanding of basic health information and services so people can make good health decisions
• develop and deliver services that are culturally sensitive
• engage with the community to help share health messages

Mary Mullix, Director of North Kensington Health Recovery at West London CCG, added, said: “The NHS has been challenged to step up and respond to the needs identified within the community and this has led us to develop the Health Partners programme.  It recognises we can only do that if we work with the local community wand the development of the heath partners programme is an indicator of our strong commitment to do so.”

Christopher Herbert, Head Coach & Founder, Fit for Youth, said: “We are really passionate about helping to improve the health, fitness and wellbeing within North Kensington and are overjoyed to be part of an amazing initiative and partnership with the health partners. We think the work the health partners are doing is fantastic and we are looking forward to contributing!”

In the coming months the Health Partners will be coming together to agree what the focus of their work will be over the next year. We will also be inviting applications from anyone else who is interested in becoming a Health Partner.

To see the film and find out more about the Health Partners Programme visit www.grenfell.nhs.uk

If anyone is interested in becoming a Health partner please get in touch at wlccg.nkrt@nhs.net

Notes to editors

1. For further information call 020 3350 4205 nwlccgs.media@nhs.net 

2. The initial Health Partners are:

Bay 20 Hearts and Minds

Dalgarno Trust

The Pepper Pot Centre

Everyone Active

Fit for Youth

Lancaster West Residents Associations

NeoHealth

Rugby Portobello Trust

Spectra

Unity Grove

Women’s Association for Network and Development (WAND UK)

Al-Hasinya Moroccan Women’s Centre

Al-Manaar Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre

Grenfell Tower Trust

French African Welfare Association

Hear Women

Midaye Somali Development Network

Kensington and Chelsea Volunteer Centre

See the latest update from the NHS in North Kensington, In this issue find out the latest on the Health Partners Programme and Social Prescribing Link vacancies.

Read in full.

The deadline for applications to become a Health Partner is fast approaching so West London CCG is encouraging all those who were thinking of applying to do so.

Applications are welcomed from the voluntary, community and faith sectors as well as resident associations. The deadline for applications is 5pm on 17 February 2020.

The work of the Health Partners will be determined by the health needs of the different communities in North Kensington and informed by what the data and evidence tells us.

This means there could be a focus on physical health needs such as diabetes, obesity or hypertension or emotional and mental health needs such as depression. There will be a range of benefits in becoming a Health Partner including training and development, support from health professionals to develop projects and work that will help build community resilience in North Kensington. The role a partner plays can be discussed and mutually agreed.

Find out more about the Health Partners programme

To become a Health Partner, an organisation will need to be a registered charity, voluntary or community group, social enterprise or community interest company, or registered social landlord. They will also need to meet certain criteria such as having a safeguarding policy and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. The CCG will support and advise any organisation who wish to become a Health Partner and does not currently meet that criteria to enable them to do so.

Want to get involved? We're looking to recruit more organisations to work with on the Health Partners Programme. If you'd like to get involved get in touch at wlccg.nkrt@nhs.net

See the latest update from the NHS in North Kensington. In this month's issue find out about changes to the Grenfell Telephone Night Service and much much more!

Read in full.

The independent Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission would like to invite North Kensington residents to two drop-in events in February.

The events will be an opportunity to find out about the Memorial Commission, the work to finalise its membership, and its plans for the future. Visitors will be able meet the commission’s community representatives, ask questions and learn more about how to be involved in what happens next. 

All of the events are designed to be drop-in events, so that those coming do not have to attend the entire event. There will be refreshments, a creche facility where possible (see posters for further information) and printed information for visitors to take away.

These events are specifically for North Kensington residents.

Find out more.
 

The Ministry of Housing and Local Government has advise that rewrapping of the tower is scheduled to take place in mid-February.

Find out more.

West London CCG is looking for a new organisation to provide Enhanced Health Checks (EHC) for children and adults in the North Kensington community.

EHCs were introduced following Grenfell and looks at overall physical health with a focus on lung function, breathing and emotional wellbeing. Adults and children can visit their GP practice to get an EHC and adults have also been able to get an enhanced health check at various community locations in North Kensington.

Mary Mullix, Director of North Kensington Health Recovery, said: “The EHCs were introduced as way of providing assurance to local people and their families about their health.  We are now looking to obtain a new provider who is able to provide the enhanced health check to adults and children and young people.

“We need an organisation which has the clinical expertise to carry out a number of tests including: spirometry (lung function test); physical examination and health promotion, as well as looking at a person’s emotional health and wellbeing.

“The provider will also need to have the ability to work in community venues and reach out to the community through health events and encourage local people to have the EHC.”

For more information about the procurement click here.

For more information about the enhanced health check click here.

The closing date for applications has been extended to 9am on Monday, 27th January 2020.

Age United in partnership with Age UK Kensington and Chelsea is working together with West London CCG and Kensington and Chelsea Social Council to offer local residents innovative support to address their wider health and social care needs.

There are five new Social Prescribing Link Worker posts available for people who are passionate about connecting communities with the tailored support they need to live independent and healthier lives, based within Kensington and Chelsea’s new Primary Care Networks. Link Workers will provide connections between the GP and community services that can support residents to address their wider health and care needs.

There is also have a new North Kensington Social Prescribing Link Worker post which will be based across that area, supporting a new programme being funded by West London CCG.

The Link Worker programme is a national initiative from NHS England and NHS Improvement and we are seeking individuals with a background or interest in health, care, public health or voluntary sector services.

Full training is provided.

For more information click here.

See the latest Grenfell environmental checks – update on Stage 2 procurement.

Click here to view.

The Grenfell Telephone Night Service is to merge with the 24 hour Single Point of Access for Adult Mental Health (SPA) and the Grenfell Support Line, run by the Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) from 8pm on Monday 20 January 2020.

View the service change flyer.

The SPA provides one number and one e-mail address for people seeking emotional and mental health support in the area. The service helps and advises individuals themselves as well as those ringing on behalf of a friend, neighbour, family or community member.

Mary Mullix, Director of North Kensington Health Recovery at West London CCG, said: “Over the last year usage of the Grenfell Telephone Night Service has declined. Numbers have reduced to less than a handful of calls per month, all of which have been general in nature and could be dealt with by the Single Point of Access service. As a result the NHS view is that it makes sense to merge these two similar services.”

During the engagement West London CCG talked to a number of organisations and individuals about the service and the reasons why we wished to make the change. The majority supported the direction of travel and requested assurance that the CCG had learned from previous service changes.

The team running the Single Point of Access and Grenfell Support Line include qualified staff who are knowledgeable about the different services and options. This will enable them to direct callers to the most appropriate service to meet their needs.The staff have received additional briefings on supporting people affected by Grenfell Tower.

West London CCG and CNWL will monitor the service post-merger to ensure the service is meeting the needs of Grenfell callers.

To confirm the services that are available for adults over the age of 18 are:

• 8am-5pm Monday to Thursday and 8am-5pm on Friday: Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service on 020 8637 6279 or by e-mail Grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net.
• 5pm-8pm Friday and 8am-8pm at weekends: Outreach on 020 8962 4393.
• From 8pm, if you are 18 or over:the NHS Single Point of Access for Adult Mental Health and the Grenfell Support line. You can contact this support line on 0800 0234 650 or e-mail cnw-tr.SPA@nhs.net.
• The person who answers the phone will be able to provide advice and support according to needs and if you wish will let the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service know so that they can provide further follow up support the next day if needed.

To confirm the services that are available for children and young adults up to the age of 18 are:

• During the day (8am – 5pm, Mon – Friday):Children and Young Peoples Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service on 020 8637 6279 or by e-mail Grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net
• After 5pm and at weekends:If a child or a young person up to the age of 18 years of age needs help or anyone else has a concern they should call the CAMHS Gateway Service on 020 3028 8475.
• In both cases the person who answers the phone will be able to provide advice and support. This advice may be to go to A&E if the situation appears to be unsafe. Otherwise someone will talk about the immediate situation offering help and support where they can and arrange further follow up the next working day.

People are also able to call the Samaritans on 116 123. This is a free, confidential 24-hour service.If you need urgent help, contact your GP or visit your local A&E.

Following the merger an answerphone message will be placed on the existing number confirming details of the new number to call. We will also monitor the service closely to ensure a smooth handover.

END

West London CCG is looking for more North Kensington organisations to come forward from the voluntary, community and faith sectors as well as resident associations to join with the NHS on our Health Partners Programme.

The Health Partners Programme which will officially launch in the New Year. The work of the Health Partners will be determined by the health needs of the different communities in North Kensington and informed by what the data and evidence tells us.

This means there could be a focus on physical health needs such as diabetes, obesity or hypertension or emotional and mental health needs such as depression. There will be a range of benefits in becoming a Health Partner including training and development, support from health professionals to develop projects and work that will help build community resilience in North Kensington. The role a partner plays can be discussed and mutually agreed.

Find out more about the Health Partners programme

To become a Health Partner, an organisation will need to be a registered charity, voluntary or community group, social enterprise or community interest company, or registered social landlord. They will also need to meet certain criteria such as having a safeguarding policy and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. The CCG will support and advise any organisation who wish to become a Health Partner and does not currently meet that criteria to enable them to do so.

Want to get involved? We're looking to recruit more organisations to work with on the Health Partners Programme. If you'd like to get involved get in touch at wlccg.nkrt@nhs.net

See the latest update from the NHS in North Kensington. In this month's issue find out about health services over Christmas, the Health Partners programme, winners from the GP awards and much much more!

Read in full.

The holiday period is often a reflective time for many whether you are celebrating Christmas or not, it can be a great time for celebration, community and connection. It can also be a particularly difficult time when you have experienced loss and are managing grief. It's important that you share how you are feeling with someone and the NHS is here for you and your families.

The Grenfell NHS Outreach team is open every day, including Christmas and New Year, from 9am to 8pm, and at night from 10pm to 7am. They can be called on 020 8962 4393 at any time. If you or a loved one requires urgent emotional wellbeing or mental health support, please contact the Grenfell Wellbeing Service on this number 0800 0234 650, also open 24 hours a day over the Christmas period.

There are a number of other services available over the bank holidays:

• Seeing a doctor - if you have an urgent medical problem over the bank holidays and your GP practice is closed please call NHS 111 who will be able to book you into an appointment locally at St Charles & Violet Melchett Care centre. You can also book an appointment in advance through your practice reception.
• Mental & emotional wellbeing - the Grenfell Outreach Team is available over the Christmas holidays – including the three Bank Holidays (Wednesday 25 December, Thursday 26 December and Wednesday 1 January) and the weekends. You can call Grenfell Outreach on 020 8962 4393 from 9am to 8pm, and 10pm to 7am. The Therapy service is not open on the Bank Holidays but is otherwise open as usual.
• Pharmacy – not all pharmacies will be open on the bank holidays, for a list of those that are click here.
• Emergency care – for life threatening services visit your local A&E service or call 999.

For more information on local services visit www.nhs.uk

Wishing you a healthy and happy Christmas.

NHS North Kensington team

See the latest NHS update on services available in North Kensington.

Click here to view the December services update.

Neohealth Primary Care Network (PCN), based in North Kensington, has been awarded Best PCN Newcomer of the Year at the 2019 GP Awards. The award was presented by Dr Nikki Kanani, Medical Director of Primary Care for NHS England and NHS Improvement.

The GP Awards recognises the contribution of primary care professionals in the field of General Practice. Neohealth PCN is made up of nine GP practices in North Kensington and was noted for having several successful projects focusing on improving patient outcomes and experience. The PCN have also improved care for patients with COPD, a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties.

The COPD project was led by Dr Yasmin Razak, Associate Clinical Director at Neohealth PCN with Dr Sarah Elkin, an Integrated Respiratory Consultant from Imperial NHS Trust, and the community respiratory team. The project involved developing joint templates, patient centred care plans and new models of delivering care, such as virtual registry reviews and development of group consultations.

Patients who are diagnosed with COPD can now expect to receive on the ground support from specialist respiratory nurses at their GP practice. This has led to 435 enhanced care plans being put in place, reaching the majority of the PCN’s COPD patients and reducing variation in care that is provided.

Dr Yasmin Razak said:

“We are thrilled to receive this award for our work to improve healthcare for our local population.

Our COPD project recognises that patients affected by respiratory conditions can receive better support if primary care is upskilled and care plans are more goal-orientated from a patient perspective.

Working with other NHS partners has been a fantastic opportunity to develop an integrative approach that has brought real change for patients who have this condition. We will continue to share our learning and knowledge to improve outcomes and patient experience going forward.”

Dr Sarah Elkin said:

“This award recognises the enthusiasm of Neohealth PCN to improve health outcomes in the population of North Kensington. It demonstrates the importance of building relationships and sharing expertise to improve health and wellbeing for those we care for.

The models developed with Neohealth PCN can be rolled out across other PCNs in North West London and the award acts as a catalyst to improve respiratory care and the general health of our population. It is a pleasure to work with such a dedicated group of health care professionals.”

Dr Rachael Garner, Clinical Director at Neohealth PCN said:

"NeoHealth PCN has been enriched by the contributions of hard working committed primary care workers in each of our practices, leaders who are passionate about primary care and a joint belief that together we are better.

As a PCN and working across organisational boundaries, we continue to focus on our priorities of improving the care of people who suffer from COPD, people who are at high risk of admission to hospital and recently been discharged, and people who have consulted frequently with their GP."

Professor Rebecca Malby from the School of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University said:

“NeoHealth PCN are passionate about their work and the community they serve. The practices know that sometimes people attending the practice need more than they can offer, and have teamed up to make sure they can get the best possible support from all the skills in the local health system.”

For more information about all the winners of the 2019 GP Awards, take a look at their website here.

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service will run sessions to teach children and young people recovery techniques in the New Year.

‘Teaching Recovery Techniques’ (TRT) groups have been used all over the world to help children and young people learn skills to recover from trauma. The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service Children and Young People’s Team have been using the sessions to teach children, and young people skills and techniques, which they can use to cope with the psychological effects of distressing events.

Among other things, the sessions will address intrusive thoughts and feelings, problems such as bad memories, nightmares, and flashbacks, and children’s fears and difficulties in facing reminders of distressing events.

The sessions for 6 to 8 year olds will take place every Wednesday from 8 January to 12 February 2020.

The sessions for 8 to 12 year olds will take place every Thursday from 9 January to 13 February 2020.

Two parent sessions will also be offered alongside each group, to enable parents to learn about the techniques their children have been practicing in the group sessions.

All sessions will be held at the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service. To book call 020 8637 6279 or email grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net

The December issue of RBKC's North Ken News includes useful information from the NHS.

Click here to find out more.

See the latest NHS update from the NHS in North Kensington. In this month's issue find out about the flu vaccination campaign, the Health Partners programme and who has been appointed as the new Director of North Kensington recovery at West London CC,

Click here to view the November update.

If you want to receive the update direct to your mailbox email grenfell.response@nhs.net

The free flu vaccination is being offered to those who are at increased risk from the effects of flu - these include people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, those with certain long-term health conditions and children (aged 2-10).

Ask your GP, pharmacist or midwife about the free flu vaccine. It's an important and easy way to stay well this winter.

Diane Jones, Chief Nurse and Director of Quality for the North West London Collaboration of Clinical Commissioning Groups said: "Flu is very serious, it's different to the common cold and for some can be deadly. The flu vaccine is the best defence we have against what can be a serious illness so please make sure you get vaccinated."

If you are the main carer of an older or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill, you may also be eligible for the free flu jab so speak to your GP to check.

The flu vaccination is being offered to residents who have been affected by Grenfell. This is an extension of the vaccination programme which is normally offered free to the most vulnerable, including people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, those with certain long-term health conditions and children (aged 2-10). Speak to your GP to find out more.

If you think you have flu-.
Stay home and rest until you feel better. The symptoms of flu include a high temperature, body aches and fatigue. If you have a long-term health condition such as COPD, bronchitis, diabetes, heart, kidney or liver disease or if you are feeling really unwell call NHS 111for advice on what to do next.

Aside from having your flu vaccine, the best way to prevent the spread of flu is to practice good hand hygiene. Catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue, throw the tissue away and wash your hands.

If you are eligible for the flu vaccine, get it now - it's free because you need it. Visit www.nhs.uk/fluvaccine for more information.

Stay in touch - visit www.healthiernorthwestlondon.nhs.uk, find us on Twitter @HealthierNWL and Facebook NHS Stay Well #HelpUsHelpYou

[ENDS]

Notes to editors

• On average, flu kills 8,000 people every year. Flu is an acute viral infection of the respiratory tract (nose, mouth, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs). It is a highly infectious illness which spreads rapidly in closed communities and even people with mild or no symptoms can infect others.
• The North West London Collaboration of Clinical Commissioning Groups plans and buys health care services for more than two million local residents across eight boroughs: Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith and Fulham, Harrow, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster. There are 400 GP practices, ten hospitals and four mental health and community health trusts across the eight boroughs.

Mary Mullix has been appointed as the new Director of North Kensington Recovery. Mary’s most recent role was Deputy Director for Quality, Nursing and Patient Safety at North West London Collaboration of CCGs.

Mary has considerable NHS experience, having worked clinically as a registered children’s and adult nurse, specialist practitioner in public health nursing, and experience of working directly with communities. Over the next few months, Mary will be out and about meeting local resident groups, and with partner organisations, and we are very pleased to have her on board.

An Introductory Course to Coppersmithing at Maxilla Men's Shed.

Create beautiful copper bowls using traditional tools and Coppersmithing techniques. A great introduction for beginners and perfect practice for those wanting to increase their skill.

Coppersmithing Course comprised of 6 x 2hr sessions

Day 1 - Tuesday 12th November 10am to 12pm