News

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 Check

·        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 Community 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 Community 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:

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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

Day 2 – Wednesday 13th November 10am to 12pm

Day 3 – Tuesday 19th November 10am to 12pm

Day 4 – Wednesday 20th November 10am to 12pm

Day 5 – Tuesday 26th November 10am to 12pm

Day 6 – Wednesday 27th November 10am to 12pm

Our workshops are free and prioritised to age 50+ Maxilla Men’s Shed Members and regular Shed users. Spaces are limited and will be determined by application criteria. Pleases make sure you are able to commit to all 6 sessions before signing up.

To book your space, please apply here https://forms.gle/gGQozCSrcB7yLmEa8

___________________________________________________

About Maxilla Men's Shed

Maxilla Men's Shed is a space where local adults, can come to learn, teach, make, share and socialise. An enjoyable way to stay socially integrated in our local community, stay active and learn or pass on transferable skills in a workshop environment and through specialised training programmes.

Maxilla Men's Shed will be running a series of courses and workshops in the shed. The courses will be focused around learning a new skill where Shedders can go on to develop and practice their new skill in The Shed space. Maxilla Men's Shed is offering a workshop workspace where users can work on practical projects, follow hobbies with others, learn a new skill by joining any of our free courses, enjoy the benefits of socialising and meeting new members, have access to a computer, tinker and drink tea. Members decide when they come and what they do and enjoy learning from each other. The main sessions are for ages 50+ but other supervised sessions can be for over 18's.

Maxilla Men’s Shed is made possible with funding from NHS West London Clinical Commissioning Group, RBKC Public Health and the Kensington and Chelsea Foundation.
___________________________________________________

For more information contact: Rasha.el-sady@acava.org
Follow us on Instagram: maxilla_mens_shed
Maxilla Men's Shed, ACAVA Maxilla Studios, 4 Maxilla Walk, W10 6NQ

The Lancaster West Residents’ Association (LWRA) has partnered with the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service and CNWL’s Recovery & Wellbeing College to run a programme of free wellbeing courses for the Grenfell community this autumn.

The pilot project first ran courses for the community in the summer, at different community venues.

Following its success the Recovery and Wellbeing College and Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service will now be working with various organisations in the community to offer free Grenfell wellbeing workshops in the coming months.

This latest programme being run with the LWRA consists of five sessions on sleep, developing resilience, managing stress coping with Christmas and understanding anxiety.

They are open to everyone living in Kensington and Chelsea and anyone affected by Grenfell.

They will all take place at the Lancaster West Estate Community Centre, 1A Station Walk, W11 1WF

All the workshops are co-produced by practitioners and people using services, and are co-delivered by both a peer trainer and a practitioner trainer.

You can book your place by calling 020 3214 5686 or emailing recoverycollege.cnwl@nhs.net

“We are committed to working in co-production with the community to deliver workshops and courses that are culturally relevant to the wellbeing needs of people in Kensington and Chelsea,” said Dr Sue Williams, Chartered Counselling Psychologist, who is part of the team working on the project.

CNWL’s Recovery & Wellbeing College is a learning and development centre that provides a range of courses, workshops and resources for staff and people using CNWL services, their carers, supporters, and families.

Download the poster here for more information.

On Wednesday 30 October GHWS staff are at the Notting Hill Methodist Church from 10.30 am for the day; and at The Curve, from 10:30am, which we think are accessible locations for the community.

Other organisations with events on, have confirmed they will call us if they need to; they have mobile and office numbers for the Team, if they need support.

Staff will also do walk-arounds in the area throughout the day.

Staff will be at Parliament, supporting survivors and bereaved people, as well as at the Friends and Family Assistance Centre.

Anyone can reach us by:

Emailing - wellbeingservice@nhs.net

Calling 020 8962 4393 from 9am to 8pm, and 10pm to 7am

This is a free and confidential NHS service for the community.

For live updates please visit our Twitter account @GrenfellNHS

Maxilla Men's Shed is pleased to announce their first workshop and collaboration with London Sustainability Exchange (LSx).

Windowsill Planters - Build & Plant Workshop
A two day workshop inspired by Project Pollinator Paths, transforming London's outdoor spaces to help local pollinators.

What to expect:

Day 1 - Tuesday 29 October 2019 - 10am to 2pm

Working under the guidance of our specialist carpenter, build your very own windowsill planter box to take home. Using woodworking tools to measure, cut, build and assemble your wooden windowsill boxes.

Day 2 - Wednesday 30 October 2019- 11am to 1pm

Working under the guidance of our specialist Pollinator expert, fill your newly designed and handmade pollinator-friendly windowsill box with compost, crocus bulbs and plants, ready to take home. Gain gardening for wildlife skills and help foster green spaces.

To book your space, please apply here https://forms.gle/4w1fYAcgEbSKD7798

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Windowsill Planters - Build Workshop
Building together 20 planters for a local community organisation. For this workshop we will be building 20 planters for a local community organisation whose members will be taking part in pollinator-friendly planting process.

What to expect:

Wednesday 6 November 2019 - 10am to 2pm

Come along and enjoy our new community Maxilla Men's Shed space. Join in the process, learn and make windowsill planters under the guidance of our specialist carpenter using woodworking tools, meet new members and find out more about our next specialist courses.

To book your space, please apply here https://forms.gle/n1BiawAmor8SjWeCA

About Maxilla Men's Shed
Maxilla Men's Shed is a space where local adults, can come to learn, teach, make, share and socialise. An enjoyable way to stay socially integrated in our local community, stay active and learn or pass on transferable skills in a workshop environment and through specialised training programmes.

Maxilla Men's Shed will be running a series of courses and workshops in the shed. The courses will be focused around learning a new skill where Shedders can go on to develop and practice their new skill in The Shed space. Maxilla Men's Shed is offering a workshop workspace where users can work on practical projects, follow hobbies with others, learn a new skill by joining any of our free courses, enjoy the benefits of socialising and meeting new members, have access to a computer, tinker and drink tea. Members decide when they come and what they do and enjoy learning from each other. The main sessions are for ages 50+ but other supervised sessions can be for over 18's.

Maxilla Men’s Shed is made possible with funding from NHS West London Clinical Commissioning Group, RBKC Public Health and the Kensington and Chelsea Foundation.
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For more information contact: Rasha.el-sady@acava.org
Follow on Instagram: maxilla_mens_shed
Maxilla Men's Shed, ACAVA Maxilla Studios, 4 Maxilla Walk, W10 6NQ

The NHS in West London is inviting all adults and children in North Kensington to book an appointment for an ‘Enhanced Health Check’.

Following the tragedy at Grenfell Tower over two years ago, the local NHS has put this service in place to offer local people an assessment of their health and wellbeing. The Enhanced Health Check looks at overall physical health and focusses on lung function, breathing and emotional wellbeing.

Doctor Meena Nathan, GP and Clinical Lead for North Kensington said: “The health and wellbeing of our local residents is important to us. We want to encourage people to book an appointment for an Enhanced Health Check and get any assurances that they may need.”

So far, over 1,000 people in North Kensington have already had an Enhanced Health Check. The checks are designed to find the early signs of any underlying health problems that might be present. It is also an opportunity for people to discuss any health concerns they may have and ask any questions.

Ali Osman from North Kensington has been for his Enhanced Health Check and said: “I’m really happy that I went for the Enhanced Health Check. It was really helpful, the nurse was able to answer all of my questions and it definitely put my mind at ease about my health. I would definitely recommend it.”

Following the health check if any further investigation is needed people are referred onto specialist NHS services such as the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing service, fast track respiratory and paediatric services.

Katie Ferrett, Enhance service team leader said: “It is important that people can access an Enhanced Health Check as soon as possible. Appointments are offered in the community to give people a choice of time and locations, making the check easier to fit into their daily lives”.

Book an appointment today

Enhanced Health Checks are available via your GP practice and our community partners Enhance. To book an appointment speak to your GP practice or call Enhance on 020 3434 2500. For more information visit www.Grenfell.nhs.uk.

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea has announced that local organisations, residents’ associations and new and existing groups in the Grenfell affected area are now able to bid for grants to deliver priority projects that contribute to the ongoing recovery of local communities.

The Grenfell Projects Fund is the new grants programme which will make £600k available for this year (2019/20) to support communities affected by the Grenfell tragedy.

The Fund was officially launched on Friday 20 September and applicants have until Sunday 10 November 2019 to apply. The Expression of Interest (EOI) form which organisations can use to apply, will be added to this web page and will be distributed to local community hubs.

Find out more about the fund and how to apply.

Professor Louis Appleby, who leads the National Suicide Prevention Strategy for England, is to meet a number of people from the Grenfell Community about suicide prevention.

He said, "The Grenfell fire is such a terrible tragedy, it's vital to recognise its impact on mental health and respond to concerns that some people could be put at risk of suicide. I want to understand the risks from the viewpoint of survivors and the wider community, so that I can advise on the services and supports that are needed."

He will be starting his visits around 3 October.

Professor Appleby was invited by Claire Murdoch, CNWL’s Chief Executive.

Dr John Green, Clinical Director of the Grenfell Health & Wellbeing service said, “We appreciate Louis’s expertise enormously; we want to build and strengthen our suicide prevention work and taking this additional advice will help.”

Professor Appleby Biography

Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Manchester and Director of the National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Safety in Mental Health. He leads the National Suicide Prevention Strategy for England.

Louis Appleby graduated in medicine in Edinburgh and subsequently trained in hospital medicine and psychiatry, the latter at the Institute of Psychiatry, London. He has an MD from Edinburgh and is a Fellow of the Royal Colleges of both Physicians and Psychiatrists.

Louis leads the Centre for Mental Health and Safety, investigating suicide and self-harm, the largest research unit in this field internationally. Its findings have been the basis of Government policy on suicide prevention and are widely quoted by governments, professionals and charities. From 2000-2010 Louis was seconded as the Government's National Director for Mental Health to lead a national programme of reform in mental health care in England and from 2010-2014 he was National Clinical Director for Health and Criminal Justice. From 2013-19 he was a non-executive director of the Care Quality Commission, the NHS regulator.

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea is inviting residents to attend the first community assembly. ‘Grenfell Community Assemblies’ will focus on different themes, depending on what residents want to discuss, and will take place every eight weeks in North Kensington.

The first theme is ‘Health and wellbeing’ and representatives of local health and wellbeing organisations have been asked to attend to take part.

For more information visit here.

On World Suicide Prevention Day tomorrow, health professionals are recommending that everyone should have some training in how to talk about suicide.

Dr Alastair Bailey, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Lead at the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service recommends suicide prevention training provided online by Zero Suicide Alliance.

The 20-minute training is free, anyone can do it, and it covers things like spotting the signs, knowing what you say and how to help someone who may be distressed.

Dr Bailey believes that “asking someone about distressing thoughts and feelings, particularly when they might be thinking about ending their lives, can be difficult – but talking openly and honestly can help to save a life.”

It is important to note that it has sensitive themes that some people may find difficult. But you can do the training together with someone for support.

Find out more here.

West London CCG is asking local stakeholders on a proposal to merge Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust’s Grenfell Telephone Night Service with their Single Point of Access (SPA) Telephone Service which is also available for people to call 24 hours a day 7, days per week.

Over an extensive period of time the Grenfell Telephone Night Service has not been used so the CCG view is that it is it makes sense to merge these two similar services.

The SPA can provide help and support in a crisis. In an urgent situation, patients may refer themselves; or referrals can be made on their behalf by family members, friends, or other services such as community, faith or support groups. It is best to make such a call in the presence of the patient, so they can be put on the line if required.

The team consists of qualified clinicians who are knowledgeable about different services and options. This helps callers to be directed to the most appropriate service to meet their needs

The CCG will be asking for people’s views on this proposal until 13 September 2019 following which a decision will be made. If a decision is made to merge the service the change will take place on the 1 October 2019 and we will publicise the change. We will also monitor the impact and review its effectiveness after 6 months.

If you want to find out more or give your view please click here to complete the survey or email grenfell.response@nhs.net

The NHS is offering Enhanced Health Checks for residents who may be concerned about their health. These are aimed at finding the early signs of health problems or underlying health conditions.

Click here to see updated information about the enhanced health checks and how you can get one.

Following the latest information from the Government on soil contamination in the area we want to update you on what the NHS is doing.

The NHS has asked the Government led Multi-Agency Partnership if the publication of the Stage 1 report changes the advice and direction given to the NHS, including whether we need to introduce any screening (including biometric testing) or change the services that we are currently providing. We have been assured that their advice remains the same and that our current services, including respiratory, mental health and toxicology specialist care, are the correct ones. We have developed an NHS question and answer document to answer any questions you have. If you have any additional questions please email grenfell.response@nhs.net

We take all health concerns very seriously and are doing all we can to protect people’s health, your GP is your first port of call. Click here to view our updated service information leaflet.

We continue to encourage anyone who is worried about their health to speak to their GP and book an appointment for an Enhanced Health Check. The Enhanced Health Check is available for all adults and children and goes beyond the standard NHS health check to assess current levels of health. Your GP can then refer you onto one of a number of specialist services for further care where required. Click here to find out more about our services.

ACAVA is delighted to announce a new ambitious project launching in the second half of 2019. Maxilla Men’s Shed will connect communities in North Kensington with the international ‘Men’s Shed’ movement, creating a place where local adults, primarily men, can come to learn, teach, make, share and socialise. Working with Kensington and Chelsea Social Council, the project has been made possible by funding from NHS West London Clinical Commissioning Group, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Public Health, and the Kensington and Chelsea Foundation.

Cllr Sarah Addenbrooke, Lead Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, RBKC, said: “We are pleased to be able to be support the body of work for Men's Sheds here in Kensington and Chelsea. The Shed will supply a range of activities and provide a safe communal space for men to engage and build friendships with other members. The profound effect of loneliness and isolation has devastating effects on men’s health and remains a public health issue. The Council is committed to reducing loneliness and encouraging and supporting social interaction”.

Maxilla Men’s Shed will provide a number of ways for local people to access a new, fully equipped wood workshop at ACAVA’s Maxilla Studios, located in the former Maxilla Children’s Centre. A series of open days will be held during August (further details coming soon), and a full programme of training and open access sessions (including opportunities for local women) will be launched in September. A dedicated Shed Programme Manager will support the community of users to grow and develop, working towards handing over the ownership and management of Maxilla Men’s Shed to the community in 2021. To support this we are also seeking to recruit local people to join a Steering Group, if you are interested please get in touch (contact details at the end of the document).

Dr Oisin Brannick, Clinical Lead Self Care and North Kensington, NHS WLCCG, said: "we know initiatives such as this bring people together to learn new skills and as a result improve people's health and wellbeing, we're delighted to fund this and work with ACAVA, to make this project happen".

ACAVA has been based in North Kensington (Blechynden St, W10) for the past twenty years. After the closure of Maxilla Children’s Centre, ACAVA took the building on with a short-term lease (now extended until 2022) from Westway Trust. Today, the building provides studios and exhibition space for 20 professional visual artists and during school holidays it is home to ACAVA’s flagship family learning arts programme, Flourish. Maxilla Men’s Shed will be a wonderful addition to Maxilla Studios’ existing creative community, and will open the building up even further for local people.

We are recruiting for the role of Programme Manager (Maxilla Men’s Shed), full details can be found here: https://www.acava.org/about/vacancies

To keep up to date with project development sign up to ACAVA’s North Kensington mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/c2zzvn

Notes to editors

About ACAVA ACAVA is a dynamic arts organisation and educational charity founded almost fifty years ago. We manage a large portfolio of 26 buildings, providing studios for almost 600 artists, mostly in London, but also in Essex and Stoke-on-Trent. ACAVA offers studios, facilities, professional development opportunities, commissions, exhibitions, open studios and a public programme of socially engaged community arts local to our studios.

ACAVA has been a pioneer of socially engaged and participatory arts programmes since its inception, and has operated from purpose-built accessible studios, offices and community art space in North Kensington for over twenty years. During this time, we have built enduring relationships working with local people, community groups, third sector and voluntary organisations to provide artistic opportunities. This work includes: Flourish, for families; Art for Wellbeing and, in partnership with Al-Manaar, the Grenfell Memorial Mosaic.

For further information, images and interviews please contact our Senior Programme Manager, Isabella Niven, by email: iniven@acava.org.

Web: www.acava.org | Twitter: @ACAVAarts | Instagram: @acava_arts

We would like to invite you to West London CCG's Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 23 July 2019, 1.30 – 3pm, the venue is the Conference Room, Museum of Brands, 111-117 Lancaster Rd, London W11 1QT.

The AGM will be an opportunity for us to share with you some of the work undertaken in 2018/19, with a focus on social prescribing and the importance of engaging with the community. We will present our annual report and accounts, which are available on our website. The agenda will be made available on our website in due course.

We would also like to take the opportunity to share the NHS Long Term Plan and NW London Commissioning Reform Case for Change and what it means for residents. We will also be including our work about quality and safeguarding during 2018/19.

We would be grateful if you could let us know whether you are able to attend. Please e-mail: wlccg.wlccg.team@nhs.net to confirm your attendance, and look forward to seeing you there.

If you have any queries, please contact Portia Duncan on 020 3350 4667 (portiaduncan@nhs.net).

As we mark the 2nd anniversary of Grenfell, West London CCG has launched a new e-newsletter designed to share NHS information with the community. Please share amongst your group and to anyone else you think would find this helpful. If anyone would like to sign up for future editions email wlccg.nkrt@nhs.net

Please view the newsletter.

We join the North Kensington community in commemorating two years since the Grenfell Tower fire, and in remembering the 72 lives lost on 14 June 2017. Those who have been affected are many and include friends and family who are living across the UK and abroad.

We recognise that this will be a difficult time for the community and would like to remind everyone that trained staff are available and ready to listen. Please do not hesitate to reach out for confidential support if needed, the number to call is 0800 0234 650.

We also recognise that the local community and voluntary groups in the area have played a crucial role in supporting health and well-being, providing opportunities for friends and neighbours to connect and talk. These groups offer a lifeline for many and we will continue to work in partnership to support their work, whilst developing the NHS services for the North Kensington community.

We re-iterate our commitment to continue to listen and learn from collective and individual experiences, and to continue to work with local people, voluntary and faith groups to hear the community voice. We recognise and understand that the community is diverse, and that NHS services need to take this into account to inform how services are developed.

On behalf of NHS West London CCG, we join the community in commemoration and that our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Dr Andrew Steeden, Chair and Louise Proctor, Managing Director

NHS West London CCG

View letter.

Westway Trust is supporting Clean Air Day, is a national campaign raising awareness of the harmful impact of air pollution on human health and the environment.

On Thursday 20th June West Way Trust is celebrating Clean Air Day with free events for local residents and businesses.

Find out more,.

Read the latest NHS information in June's edition of North Ken News. Find out how the community health and well-being strategy is developing, Les Ferdinand's experience of using virtual reality to open up about his own mental health as well as information on cervical screening and greater access to GPs through evening and weekend appointments.

In the run up to the anniversary we also reflect upon coping with strong emotions that may surface or worsen at this difficult time and how to reach out for help if you or a loved one need further support.

North Ken News is a monthly publication launched by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in direct response to residents' feedback for more information about what is happening in the local area.

You can read the latest edition here.

We are asking residents in the North Kensington area affected by the Grenfell tragedy what services are needed in the next few years so they can help shape a new Health and Wellbeing strategy for the community as we move forward.

The strategy will aim to support existing services to continue but will also progress new services as health needs evolve over time. The report will bring feedback from the community together with clinical and international evidence and it is in this context that the NHS is proposing to focus on delivering services in the following areas:

• Self-care and social prescribing
• Primary health services with access to specialist services when needed
• Emotional support and wellbeing
• Services for children and young people
• Dedicated service

Invest in a universal self-care, developed in collaboration with the local community which supports local people to improve their health and wellbeing.

Provide primary health care services that give individuals and families proactive health promotion, diagnosis and disease management, with more accessible primary healthcare services

Actively promote emotional wellbeing for now and the future and provide care for emotional distress, supporting the community to [re-build] their lives.

For survivors of the fire and bereaved families and individuals we will join up care to best support the long-term improved health and wellbeing of those most affected by the tragedy.

Community Engagement so far

Our engagement so far has combined a mixture of in-depth conversation, surveys and meetings and over 1,000 comments were captured. We have listened to the priority areas that local residents advised they would like us to focus on, and have developed the following themes:

We want to hear from the community at this stage, to ensure our initial findings are reflected as intended, before the strategy is published. We’d be happy to hear from you if you have any comments or feedback on the above or wish to discuss further, email grenfell.response@nhs.net.

Alongside the strategy a ‘Cultural Competency Framework’ is being developed, to ensure services meet the needs of the diverse population of North Kensington and are delivered in a culturally responsive manner, coming soon.

To see a GP over the bank holiday please call your practice, if your practice is closed call NHS 111 and you will be directed to one of two local hubs which offer evening and weekend appointments all year round.

Urgent care centres are also open 24 hours a day over the bank holiday. They offer treatment for urgent minor illnesses and injuries and patients can be seen without an appointment. In a life-threatening emergency visit A&E or call 999. Accident & emergency departments and 999 are for serious or life-threatening emergencies.

If you or someone close to you are feeling down or need urgent help

If you want to talk to someone about how you are feeling, the Grenfell NHS outreach team is open every day, including bank holidays 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 support, please contact the specialist health line 24/7 on 0800 0234 650 or email cnw-tr.SPA@nhs.net any day, any time, including weekends and bank holidays. Just tell the call handler you’ve been affected by the Grenfell Tower fire and they will make sure you are referred quickly to the right service.

Not everyone needs specialist emotional health support – for some people, practical help is needed, and others just need someone to talk to.

The Samaritans are also always available to call confidentially, 24/7 free on 116 123.

NHS services for those affected by the Grenfell Tower fire

Followings publication of Professor Anna Stec’s paper on potential soil contaminants in the area around Grenfell Tower, local NHS services have restated their commitment to put in place the right services to support local residents now and in the long term.

Dr Andrew Steeden, local GP and Chair of West London CCG, said: “The NHS is here to support the community and we do understand your concerns. When someone talks about potential serious health concerns, it is bound to be alarming. Like you we are relying on advice from the Multi Agency Partnership, chaired by Minister Hurd, that brings together scientific expertise and all government departments to inform the design of future services and we are in contact with them.

“If you are worried about your health or somebody else’s health, we really encourage you to speak to your GP and get an enhanced health check to assess your current health and, if needed, your GP may refer you for more specialist help. Enhanced health checks are available for children and adults.”

For adults, enhanced health checks include:

• Addressing concerns around breathing difficulties.
• Monitoring for, and effective management of, long term conditions, such as diabetes.
• Physical health checks (looking at weight gain, blood pressure and cholesterol).
• On-going mental health screening that will include screening for anxiety, depression, trauma responses and other emotional health difficulties.

For further information about enhanced health checks, speak to your GP, or contact our community service, Healthy Hearts at 020 3434 2500.

For children, enhanced health checks include:

• Checking concerns around breathing.
• Emotional health screening.
• Weight monitoring and links to local weight management services.
• Focus on physical activity and exercise programmes within the community.

For further information about enhanced health checks for children, speak with your GP.

Dr Steeden added: “Situations like this can make people feel worse - increasing their anxiety or bringing on panic attacks, which can be experienced like physical pain. Again we would encourage you to talk to your GP or the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service if you are troubled by difficult feelings.

“If you were affected by the fire, and are living in another borough, you can also access these services. Please speak to your GP in the first instance.”

Coping with everyday life

Your GP

People affected by the fire can book longer GP appointments to give you more time to talk about everything. Tell your doctor if you have a cough or breathing problems or if you have other health problems like heart disease. They can send you to a specialist clinic at St Mary’s Hospital for people with breathing problems.

You can also see a GP or nurse in the evening or at weekends if you live in Kensington and Chelsea, Queen’s Park or Paddington or have a GP there. Your GP’s receptionist can book the appointment for you at:

• Violet Melchett Integrated Care Centre
• St Charles Centre for Health and Wellbeing Integrated Care Centre.

NHS 111

You can telephone 111 for advice if you need medical help quickly but it is not a 999 emergency.

Emotional wellbeing

The NHS can help if you, or someone you know, is feeling sad or cannot cope. Speak to your GP or the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service.

Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service

This is a free and confidential service for children, adults and families affected by the Grenfell Tower fire. We know that people are experiencing a broad range of difficulties following the fire.

For some, it has triggered distressing thoughts, memories and nightmares. You may be struggling to sleep, feeling anxious, angry or low in mood. Some people are also finding it difficult to cope with persistent and traumatic feelings of grief, or adjusting to life and changes following the fire.

We offer tailored support to give you the help you want, at the pace you need it. You can telephone us on: 020 8637 6279.

The children’s arm of the service works closely with schools and families to support children and young people who are anxious or upset. We will find out what support your child needs and which service can help them.

If you or someone you know need out of hours support because you’re feeling anxious, upset or suicidal you can contact us 24 hours a day.

Telephone: 0800 0234 650 Email: cnw-tr.SPA@nhs.net

The service is confidential and you do not have to give us your personal information. The person who answers the phone will make sure you get the right support from the right service.

You can also call the Samaritans on 116 123. This is a free, confidential 24 hour service.

The NHS has published a new leaflet describing services available for those affected by the Grenfell Tower Fire.

Read it here.

North Ken News is a monthly publication which is delivered to households in North Kensington. It was launched by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in direct response to residents' feedback for more information about what is happening in the local area.

See North Ken News.

The NHS is offering enhanced health checks for residents who may be concerned about their health. These are aimed at finding the early signs of health problems or underlying health conditions, for example, lung conditions often seen in smokers.

Dr Oisin Brannick from the Exmoor Surgery, said: “If you are worried about you r own or your loved ones health, we would encourage you to speak to your GP and ask about getting an enhanced health check. Your doctor will spend some time with doing some checks, discussing your health concerns and agreeing if anything further needs to be done.”

For adults, enhanced health checks include:

• Monitoring for long term conditions such as diabetes and advice on the steps you need to take to manage these conditions effectively.
• Physical health checks (looking at weight gain, blood pressure and cholesterol).
• Health advice around stopping smoking, alcohol intake and substance misuse.
• Addressing concerns around breathing difficulties.
• General health and wellbeing conversations to check how you are feeling.

For further information about enhanced health checks, speak with your GP or contact community provider Healthy Hearts at 020 3434 2599.

Dr Brannick, added: “We also know people are worried about their children’s health so we also have enhanced health checks for them. Your GP will check any concerns around breathing, weight, dental hygiene and have a general discussion about how they are feeling. There is a real focus on physical activity and getting the children active through community exercise programmes. Please contact your GP Practice if you have any concerns about your child's health."

Are enhanced health checks the same as screening?

Screening is different from health checks. Screening is when clinicians screen or check for specific conditions or poisons, based on scientific evidence about the population’s potential health needs.

The air around Grenfell is checked continuously and Public Health England has not found extra pollution caused by the Grenfell fire which would add to health risks. However, we understand that local people are worried, and the Government is bringing forward testing of the soil around Grenfell for possible harmful pollution.

If screenings are required local residents will be contacted immediately with the necessary information.

The local NHS has published a booklet contains information on the full range of emotional wellbeing and physical health services available to the community.

Click here.

What are you doing this month to get back to a healthier you?

The start of the year tends to be the time that most people begin to think about how they can better look after themselves and take steps to improve their general wellbeing for the year ahead.

That’s why this month the NHS across North West London have launched a campaign to encourage our local residents to improve their health both physically and mentally by making a #MyJanuary pledge.

Small steps can help improve your physical and mental health. Are you attempting dry January? Eating healthier? Exercising more? Getting more sleep? Stopping smoking? Whatever you are doing, tell us what actions you are taking to improve your health for the year ahead as we combat the New Year blues.

Spread the word…

Share your pledge on social media (find us on Twitter @Healthiernwl or Facebook NHS Stay Well using #MyJanuary to help encourage others.

If you want to talk to someone about how you are feeling, 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 support, please contact the specialist health line on 0800 0234 650, open 24 Hours (Including Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day).

If you are feeling down or need urgent help

A 24 hour telephone number to call if you or someone is feeling down or needs urgent emotional help. It is run by the local NHS and is free. The service is confidential and you are not required to give any personal details.

Services can be reached by calling 0800 0234 650 or emailing cnw-tr.SPA@nhs.net any day, any time, including weekends and bank holidays. Just tell the call handler you’ve been affected by the Grenfell Tower fire and they will make sure you are referred quickly to the right service and support.

If you know someone who needs urgent help

If you notice someone close to you is struggling to cope or even feeling suicidal, you should contact the 24/7 specialist health line 0800 0234 650 or ask the person you are worried about to call.

Where there is an urgent need, the call handlers will make sure you get the right support, quickly. Not everyone needs specialist emotional health support – for some people, practical help is needed, and others just need someone to talk to.

The Samaritans are always available to call confidentially, 24/7 free on 116 123.

Planning for the winter

Winter can be bad for our health, especially if you’re aged 65 or older or you are someone with a long term health condition. Being cold can raise the risk of increased blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes, and make us more vulnerable to respiratory winter illnesses.

At the first sign of a winter illness, even if it’s just a cough or cold, get advice from your pharmacist before it gets more serious. Pharmacists are qualified to advise you on the best course of action, and can be the best and quickest way to help you recover and get back to normal.

Make sure you get your flu jab, as the flu virus strikes in winter and can lead to serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

You can get the flu jab for free if you’re aged 65 or over, are a pregnant woman, or have a long term health condition. You may also be eligible for a free flu vaccination if you have young children or grandchildren, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person. Speak to your pharmacist or GP for further information.

Children aged two and three years old can be given the free flu vaccine at their general practice, usually in the form of a nasal spray.

This is a very quick and painless procedure. Nearly all eligible children in reception year and school years 1 to 5 will be offered the flu vaccine in school.

Remember to keep warm, both inside and outdoors. Indoor environments should be 18ºC (65ºF) or higher if possible, and wear several layers of light clothes. Several layers trap warm air better than one bulky layer.

Ask your pharmacist what medicines should be in your medicine cabinet. Many over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol are available to relieve symptoms of common winter ailments including colds, coughs and sore throats.

Remember to get your prescription medicines before your pharmacy or GP practice closes for Christmas.

For the full range of services available over the holiday period download our new booklet.

With holidays upon us some people, especially the bereaved, will find it a sad and difficult time. CRUSE has issued the following advice, but please remember, if you, friends or family require support or help during this period, please give us a call on 020 8962 4393 – from 9am to 8pm, and at night from 10pm to 7am.

Coping at Christmas

Christmas can be a painful time whether it’s your first year without someone who has died, or you were bereaved long ago.

We know that facing Christmas alone, or whilst grieving, can be a daunting prospect. One of the things that can help can be to spend some time trying to work out, well in advance, which arrangements will best suit your needs and the needs of others who share your loss.

Whether to celebrate Some bereaved people find that they do not wish to celebrate Christmas at all, whilst some find that simply maintaining their routine and celebrating as normal is the best tribute they can pay their loved one. It may feel important to make a special effort to remember the person who has died. This can be as simple as ‘speaking’ to the person, silently or out loud, or it may involve visiting their grave, or a place that was special to them. These can be things that we do alone, or with friends or family.

You may have photos or particular memories which you treasure; sharing these with others may be something that brings you together.

Different ways of mourning

We know that people remember and mourn in different ways. Conflict within a family can sometimes arise when we have expectations of how others should grieve, so try to be sensitive to others’ needs, and to talk openly about what will be best for you.

Routine and self-care

The Christmas period may mean that your normal routine is disrupted, and this can make it easier to forget to look after yourself. Trying to keep to regular patterns of sleeping and eating are small things that can make a difference. We can all drink more on festive occasions, but it’s important to remember that using alcohol to escape the pain of loss provides only very temporary relief. Seeing friends or family, or volunteering for the day, can all help.

Memories of time passed

As time passes, special occasions like Christmas can help us to begin to focus on happier memories of good times shared in the past. However, they can also be difficult, intensely emotional times when we need to look after ourselves and those around us.

Download the leaflet.

NHS booklet of services sent to those affected by the Grenfell Tower Fire

In the run up to Christmas the NHS is sending a booklet describing the services that are available to those affected by the Grenfell Tower Fire to thousands of households and businesses in the area.

The booklet contains information on the full range of emotional wellbeing and physical health services available to the community including details of who to contact during the holiday period.

Dr Oisin Brannick, local GP and clinical lead for North Kensington Recovery, said: “We want everyone to know how they can access a range of services over the winter including the holiday period. The booklet gives advice on how people can access the right NHS service if they or someone they know needs any help. This includes emotional support, our services are available whether someone is simply feeling sad or if they are feeling overwhelmed and need to talk to someone urgently.

The booklet also gives people the opportunity to feedback their views on the longer term North Kensington Health Recovery Plan which has been developed after speaking to lots of people and community groups and people are telling us what they’d like our priorities to be, including:

• Create services that understand faith, ethnicity, culture and gender.
• Use social media to engage young people on health and wellbeing.
• Support people to lead independent and healthy lifestyles.
• Promote NHS health and wellbeing services better.

We’re hoping to get more people’s views, people can contribute by completing the slip at the back of the booklet and posting it to us for free”.

At the same time, the NHS are promoting the Grenfell Night Service, which is staffed by clinicians for local residents who require urgent advice and support and is available between 10pm and 7am every day by calling 020 8962 4393. Clinicians can also arrange to visit residents at home via the helpline. A new leaflet has been produced to publicise it.

Look out for the booklet in the post this week. It is also available on our website.

Patients are encouraged to call 111 this winter to ease pressure on NHS services.

The NHS has launched their winter campaign ‘Help Us Help You know what to do’ designed to help keep you well and help keep our NHS services running well this winter.

The campaign aims to increase peoples’ understanding of the actions they can take to help the NHS help them. This could be visiting the pharmacist at the first sign of illness, managing symptoms at home, getting the flu jab, self-care or using NHS 111 for help.

NHS 111 is free to call for advice about an urgent health concern and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

NHS 111 now offers the public a much more comprehensive service and is much more than just a helpline; patients can speak to a fully trained advisor quickly. They will assess symptoms and, depending on the situation will provide self-care advice, transfer patients to a relevant healthcare professional, including nurses, emergency dentists or even GPs.

The advisors can also arrange face-to-face appointments, give directions to local services that can help best with a concern, and if assessed as needing an ambulance, one can be sent directly. Whatever the need is, NHS 111 will ensure the right care is given, from the right person, as quickly as possible.

Tricia Mukherjee, Head of Nursing, Emergency and Ambulatory care at Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow explained, ‘often people don’t know where to turn for medical advice and can end up at A&E unnecessarily. NHS 111 is an excellent service and one of the most effective ways to get medical advice or speak to a clinician quickly, especially over the Christmas period.

Calling 111 will make it easier and faster to get in touch with local health services. People should call 111 if they need advice or medical treatment quickly and cannot wait for an appointment to see the doctor.’

There are many things people can do to stay well this winter, click here for information. If you do become unwell and don’t know who to phone for medical help or need information about a health issue call 111 ‘Help Us Help You know what to do.’

For more information on NHS 111 visit nhs.uk/111

Creating healthier communities

Local residents are being invited to have their say on NHS proposals on what they need to do next to help the North Kensington community recover from the tragedy of the Grenfell Tower Fire.

The first stage in developing the plan has been the identification of key health themes through various meetings, publications, reports and engagement. In developing these themes we have ensured that there is flexibility to accommodate emerging and new health needs that may get identified in the future.

The themes include looking after families as a whole, working with local groups to equip them with the skills and knowledge so they can help the local community and a focus on vulnerable groups who do not always seek help such as young men.

Louise Proctor, Managing Director of NHS West London CCG, said: “We are now at the stage of engaging in health conversations with communities and a variety of stakeholders to ensure that we have understood what we have been told, whether the health themes have been correctly identified or need changing. “

The conversations will be taking place from November 2018 to mid-January 2019 and people also have the opportunity to contribute by taking part in our short survey which can be found here.At the conclusion of these conversations, results will be fed back through our website and an update bulletin on the Health Recovery Plan. It is important that we hear from as many people and organisations as possible to create a plan that has been influenced by the local community.

Have your say by completing the survey.

Download the poster.

Full list of Health Recovery Themes

• Provide healthcare for survivors/bereaved that focuses on the needs of the entire family so they can heal together.
• Create healthcare services that understand and respect the importance of faith, ethnicity, culture and gender.
• Create health conversations on social media with young men and women so they tell us about their health and wellbeing needs.
• Work with community/voluntary/faith groups to strengthen their health knowledge and support them to assist the community.
• Prioritise vulnerable groups who may not seek help i.e. parents with young children and young men.
• Give people the knowledge they need to lead independent and healthy lifestyles.
• Promote health and wellbeing services better so people know exactly what help is available to them and where.
• Help people manage their long-term conditions which may have worsened due to displacement and stress i.e. diabetes, COPD, alcohol/drug intake.
• Understand the impact of disasters on diverse, deprived and marginalised communities.
• Address emerging and or new health needs that may be identified in the near future

If you belong to a community group or want to hear more from the NHS about our plans please email grenfell.response@nhs.net

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Notes to editors

• For further information contact Andrew Pike, at a.pike@nhs.net or call 07771399170.
• If you have any concerns regarding your health please contact your GP or NHS 111 for an appointment or please visit www.grenfell.nhs.uk

The local provider of mental health services, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust produced an information leaflet on the types of therapies offered at the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service.

It explains how we can help and what happens when you get in touch with us.

Read and download the leaflet by clicking on it below.

In November 2018 West London CCG attended the local Grenfell Scutiny Committee to provide an update on the provision of mental health services for the residents of North Kensington following the Grenfell Tower fire. View the paper here.

The NHS has launched Health Help Now across West London, a new digital app to help residents and patients to manage their GP and hospital appointments, access the right local services and to find health advice in a hurry. The timing comes as NHS services prepare for extra demand over the winter period, encouraging patients to use the right service at the right time.

“Health Help Now is a really useful one stop shop for residents to find local services and for trusted healthcare advice, says Dr Andrew Steeden of NHS West London CCG. Often people don’t know where to go for help and might end up at A&E when they don’t really want or need to. The app helps to find alternative services and even book a GP appointment.

It’s a great step forward to improving patient experience here in West London. It’s really easy to use and gives patients greater visibility of what’s available. There are lots of good health apps on offer but this is local and brings services and advice under one roof”.

Benefits of the app:

• Find the right service:
  Health Help Now helps people check their symptoms and find the best place for treatment – showing which nearby services are open. Importantly, it will help people to know when to go to A&E, and when not to.
• Appointments in one place:
  GP online is available through the app to book and change GP appointments, there’s also a service to book and change hospital appointments, putting people in control of their care.
• Symptom checker:
  Find symptom checkers and NHS approved health apps for information on living a healthier life and support in managing long-term conditions.

Find out more, download free from the app store. Search ‘Health Help Now’.

The NHS is responding to heightened health concerns within the North Kensington community by holding drop-in health advice clinics in November.The move follows reports of suspected soil contamination after the Grenfell Tower fire.

The NHS is encouraging anyone affected by the Grenfell tragedy with health concerns to attend the health advice clinics. Particular emphasis will be given to breathing and wellbeing of children, with specialist children’s consultants present. Alternatively, people are advised to contact their GP or NHS 111 for an appointment.

The drop-in health advice clinics will be held at the below date/time and location:

• Monday 19 November, 6.30pm – 8.30 pm at Hilton Hotel, 179-199, Holland Park Avenue, W11 4UL
• Wednesday 28 November, 6.30pm – 8.30pm at Hilton Hotel, 179-199, Holland Park Avenue, W11 4UL

Louise Proctor, Managing Director for NHS West London Clinical Commissioning Group said:

“The palpable sense of worry within the community is very evident and very understandable. As an immediate measure we are rolling out drop-in health advice clinics in November to provide the community with the reassurance they need and deserve. We are encouraging anyone who has any health concerns to attend and to bring their family and friends along too if they wish. Meeting the health and wellbeing needs of the North Kensington community is and always will be our absolute priority.”

If you have any concerns regarding your health please contact your GP or NHS 111 for an appointment or please visit www.grenfell.nhs.uk

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Notes to editors

For further information contact Hari Rai, Senior Communications Manager at hari.rai@nhs.net or call 07769284489.

The Police have let us know about firework displays and bonfires over the next few days and it’s good for people to be prepared.

Some people may find this difficult and could find it revives traumatic, frightening, memories.

So we’re advising people to be aware of the events and decide what you want to do; many people will not want to participate but some will.

Anyone in the Grenfell Community who is upset by the sights and sounds can contact the Grenfell Outreach Service directly on 020 8962 4393, during the day, evening and night time.

Traumatic memories can be revived by many sensations – a sight, a smell, a noise; all can trigger a response that takes people back to difficult times; stress can trigger your body’s ‘fight or flight’ defence system, with adrenaline and you will feel your breathing change, your heart rate go up with heightened awareness.

If you do experience feelings like this 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.

And remembers that you can call the Grenfell NHS Outreach Service directly on 020 8962 4393, during the day, evening and night time.

Events:

Fireworks display 1 November 6:30pm to 8:45pm, Edwardes Sq, W8

Fireworks display 3 November 5:45 to 8pm, Ladbroke Sq, W11

Fireworks display 5 November 6pm to 8pm, Lansdowne Road Clarendon Road Communal Gardens, W11

Fireworks display 3 November 6pm onwards; West London Bowling Club 112A Highlever Road, W10

Download the poster by clicking on the link.

Local GP surgeries are running additional clinics for Grenfell affected residents as a result of the increased needs, with longer appointments available of up to 30 minutes available if they are needed opposed to the standard 10 minutes.

The appointments are for anyone who feels they need help but, we are also calling in patients proactively. Those from the Tower, walkways, estates like Silchester and Bramley and residents from the wider North Kensington affected area.

Local GPs have designed a comprehensive patient review specific to those affected; looking for respiratory symptoms, checking for diabetes, weight, reviewing mental health well-being, drug and alcohol use, suicidal risk, social issues such as relationship break, gang involvement in teenagers, help with back to work, linking to third sector organisations such as Family Action.

A lot of these patients are extremely complex, with pre-existing mental and physical health needs prior to the Grenfell Tower fire. Some have been subject to torture or trafficking or may have just had a very difficult journey through life. All of this has been exacerbated by the tragedy. Such complex patients are also being helped with case managers within surgeries. Their main role is to help patients navigate services, health promotion and self care, for example, around diabetes which is huge in Notting Dale. They also raise issues with key workers where problems arise.

In addition, we have established a rapid access respiratory clinic at St Mary’s Hospital for anyone concerned about their breathing or people with a cough. They will be seen by a respiratory consultant who will carry out appropriate tests.

We would encourage all patients to contact their GP if they have any concerns about their health.

Out of hours GP access

GPs and practice nurses are available to people who need them in the West London CCG area at the weekend and on weekday evenings. To see a GP or practice nurse outside of usual office hours, contact your registered practice or call 111 to book an appointment.

West London CCG has provided a letter to Grenfell United setting out the position of West London Clinical Commissioning Group in the light of recent media coverage regarding toxicity in the soil.

Download the letter.

Young people from the Grenfell community have decided to speak out about mental health and how they were affected by the Grenfell tragedy in support of World Mental Health Day, Wednesday 10 October.

Every year World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of mental health issues and the work being done to support those that need it. The focus this year is on young people and mental health at a time of life when many changes are occurring such as new schools, exam stress, moving from home and generally finding their place in the world. This transition was made even more difficult for children who experienced the Grenfell tragedy. Since the disaster, young people in the community have been active in sharing their experiences and have been encouraging others to talk about mental health.

Riana, 17, who lives in the local area said: “Lots of my friends and peers have been affected by what happened at the Grenfell Tower. It’s really important that we are aware of the mental health issues that may be affecting us. It is also important for us to come together and speak about mental health in a way that is empowering and positive for us.”

The NHS has been active within the community since the devastation of Grenfell and has been treating people for issues related to mental health and trauma. Young people are often less likely to access services that are available to them or ask for help due to the stigma related with mental health, resulting in them dismissing their feelings.

Mona Hayat, Director of North Kensington Recovery, NHS West London Clinical Commissioning Group said: “It’s essential that young people who have been affected by the Grenfell tragedy recognise the signs of poor mental health and feel safe and comfortable to open up. By giving young people in the community a platform to share their thoughts and experiences we can ensure their voice is heard and that other young people know that it’s okay, not to feel okay, because there are people here to speak with and who will understand.”

Short videos of the young people from Grenfell talking about mental health can be found here. You can also join the conversation about mental health online, search #worldmentalhealthday and #OKnottofeelOK on social media.

The NHS is dedicated to helping the community recover - if you or a loved one need support please visit www.grenfellwellbeing.com or www.oknottofeelok.org or please call 0800 0234 650.

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Notes to editors

1. World Mental Health Day (10 October 2018) is hosted by the World Health Organisation. This year the focus is on young people and mental health in a changing world. More information can be found here.

For further information, please contact Hari Rai, Communications Manager, hari.rai@nhs.net or Ayesha Baker, Communications Manager, ayesha.baker@nhs.net.

Local health services welcome funding commitment

Local health services have welcomed todays funding commitment made by NHS Chief Executive, Simon Stevens for those affected by the Grenfell tragedy and allow us to build on the work that had already taken place.

The announcement will provide reassurance to local residents that the NHS will be here long term to provide physical and mental health services and will also be able to put in place a screening service for Grenfell community.

Mona Hayat, Director of North Kensington Recovery, West London CCG and Robyn Doran, Chief Operating Officer, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust said, “This is really good news and underlies our commitment to listening and working with the community to develop services that meet their needs. This is something many have wanted to see; a coordinated service for mental and physical health concerns, and now, with the communities support, we will be as Simon Stevens said, imminently introducing a new screening service.”

Over the next few weeks and months we will be working with people from Grenfell Tower and the local community to develop the new service.

Click here to see the full Simon Stevens announcement.

Kensington and Chelsea Council has launched a series of community conversations, workshops, drop-in sessions as well as a new website - strongercommunities.rbkc.gov.uk – to ask local residents, community organisations and businesses in North Kensington what matters most to them.

Find out more and how you can get involved.

There is an updated leaflet for anyone attending or affected by the Grenfell Inquiry witness sessions.

Download the leaflet.

The NHS with Hestia have been supporting people attending the Public Inquiry.

This support will continue but the NHS is offering additional help as the bereaved, survivors and local residents are about to give their evidence.

The NHS and Hestia have issued a statement with details of the kind of help people can access and how to get in touch.

You can download or read the statement here.

West London CCG and CNWL have issued a letter to update the community about the Grenfell Night Service.

Download the letter.

Young people who have been affected by the Grenfell tragedy came together to discuss mental health with musician Professor Green on Saturday 22 September.

The Mindful Youth North Kensington event also had creative workshops with activities such as yoga, poetry, football and graffiti boards to encourage discussions around mental health in a positive and creative space. The event was organised in collaboration with young people in the area, the NHS and youth organisation EPIC.

Rhiannon (17) lives in the local area and was instrumental in organising the day, she said: ‘Lots of my friends and peers have been affected by what happened at the Grenfell Tower. It’s really important that we are aware of the mental health issues that may be affecting us. We wanted to make sure that we had a day that allowed us to come together and speak about mental health in a way that was empowering and positive for us.’

Musician, Professor Green shared his personal experiences with mental health during a Q&A at the event, he said: ‘Often with mental health you’re the last one to know that you’re suffering or you’re ashamed to ask for help. Bringing the youth in the community together and acknowledging their trauma in a creative space is an important step in helping them to open up about what they’ve been through”.

The NHS has been active within the community since the devastation and has been treating people for issues related to mental health and trauma. Young people are often less likely to access services that are available to them or ask for help due to the stigma related with mental health, resulting in them dismissing their feelings.

Mona Hayat, Director of North Kensington Recovery, NHS West London Clinical Commissioning Group said: “This is the community serving the community. It is about letting the children know it is okay not to be okay about things, because there is help out there.”

The NHS is dedicated to helping the community recover - if you or a loved one needs support please visit www.grenfell.nhs.uk or call 0800 0234 650.

Summer in the City is your guide to the huge range of events and activities taking place for children, young people and their families this summer across Kensington and Chelsea and neighbouring boroughs.

There are over 1000 events for you to get involved with, including outdoor activities, bake-offs, arts and crafts, beatboxing, the Summer Reading Challenge, free cycling tours, nature trails, costume making, graffiti art, photography and so much more.

The events taking place in Kensington and Chelsea this summer can be found in the Summer in the City flyer which is available on the Grenfell Support Website.

To see all the events taking place in all three boroughs, visit the Summer in the City events page.

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service, alongside Hestia, have published an information leaflet to help people involved with the Grenfell Inquiry to cope with emotional fatigue. The leaflet is available in English, Farsi and Arabic.

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service and Hestia are available all day at the inquiry. Support is also available online on the Grenfell Wellbeing website where you cans self-refer or call 020 8637 6279.

Today the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) are launching the 'OK not to feel OK' campaign.

This campaign promotes sources of support and help to anyone struggling emotionally in Kensington and Chelsea.

They want to reduce the stigma around mental illness and death by suicide within the community by talking more openly about this and for anyone in distress to feel confident to turn to someone for support and seek help before they reach crisis point.

The campaign will focus on identifying and owning how you feel and asking for help to cope with these feelings.

This campaign isn’t only about suicide but about promoting good mental health. If those who are most at risk can’t reach out directly then we hope their loved ones might find this campaign a useful source of support and help. Posters and flyers have already been mailed out for community hubs to display.

You may have already seen tweets from the @grenfellsupport Twitter feed and posts on the Grenfell Support Facebook page, please share these far and wide. There is also a 'OK not to feel OK' dedicated Facebook page for the campaign so please do take a look and like the page and get your friends and colleagues to like it too.

Visit the 'OK not to feel OK' campaign website today and find out about how else you can get involved and spread the message.

Over this week the NHS has been preparing to support the many community events that have been arranged to support those remembering loved ones and friends lost during the tragic events of 14 June 2017.

This time is also for us an opportunity to share in remembrance with the community. Many of our staff will be in North Kensington on the day to provide support but also to pay their respects.

Back in our offices, staff will come together to share reflections on the year and will then observe a 72 second silence.

On Friday we will stand alongside the community by taking part in Green for Grenfell. We will share our pictures online.

Everyone who is remembering this week is in our thoughts and prayers. We offer you our continued support during this difficult time.

Green For Grenfell is an annual event bringing together communities to celebrate diversity and unity. This year the focus is on schools and community groups. Each year the focus will widen in order to build a lasting legacy of the support the Grenfell community received in the first days and weeks by the local community but also from every corner of the country.

Read all about Green for Grenfell and how you can take part on the Grenfell United website,

The Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Team have recorded a message about the services that are available to the local community and how to get in touch with them. Members of the team who spoke were:

• Leili Alikhani, Advanced Practitioner Outreach Team, Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service
• Dr Catherine Broadway, Clinical Psychologist and Deputy Clinical Lead Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service
• Dr Sarah Heke, Psychologist, Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service

To see what they said, visit this video that is on the Grenfell Speaks Facebook page.

To get into contact with the Team, email: grenfell.wellbeingservice@nhs.net or call 020 8962 4393.

For further information, visit the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing website.

Ahead of the anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire, Healing Minds, a group bringing together a number of local NHS and mental health professionals and organisations, has worked with the Diocese of London to issue guidance for media organisations reporting on, and dealing with those affected by, trauma. Bishop of Kensington, Dr Graham Tomlin, who has been involved with the Grenfell response since the early days, and some representatives from Healing Minds, have met with journalists to discuss the challenges of balancing necessary and sensitive reporting with the risks of retraumatisation for a number of vulnerable people, particularly as the Public Inquiry continues to hear evidence.

The NHS Grenfell Outreach Team has, to date, made 6794 contacts with members of the community affected by health issues related to Grenfell. 880 adults and children are in treatment, under the NHS Screen & Treat trauma programme,alongside other organisations and community groups who have been delivering support services.

Healing Minds practitioners have recognised the importance and value of much of the media reporting on Grenfell over the past year, knowing that good media stories can change lives. However, for some people still in the very early stages of recovery, there are concerns that certain aspects of media coverage and engagement with journalists can have a retraumatising effect.

The feedback from the media is that they would value advice from mental health professionals on engaging with people who have experienced trauma. The new guidelines on retraumatisation, put together by Healing Minds, build on the principles of DoNoHarm and are as follows:

1. Intrusive reporting can put undue pressure on those affected to comment, when they clearly would rather not.

2. Warnings of sensitive content, printed, online or verbal, are helpful to identify sensitive content, likely to provoke a strong emotional response for some.

3. Images of the Tower today demonstrate to those living with trauma that the incident is historic - pictures of the tower in flames could cause distress by making events seem current.

4. First-person accounts could prove similarly upsetting - the third-person should be used where possible.

5. Where to get help ‘fact-boxes’, accompanying in-depth pieces about Grenfell, are vital.

6. Trauma recovery can make for good news stories, demonstrating that healing is possible and probable for most people.

7. Interviews with children should be avoided, given they are particularly vulnerable to the long-term effects of media attention.

Healing Minds includes organisations active in North Kensington such as CNWL NHS Trust, Kensington and Chelsea Mind, Help Advisory Service Hestia, Cruse Kensington Chelsea Hammersmith & Fulham, Winston’s Wish, Mind and Soul Foundation, Place2Be, West London Action for Children and Brent, Wandsworth and Westminster Mind. The consortium formed in the early days after the Grenfell Fire to coordinate skills and resources, in response to the volume of requests each organisation was receiving for help and assistance.

The Bishop of Kensington, Dr Graham Tomlin, who has worked closely with members of the Grenfell community over the past year, commented:

“Healing Minds brings together a group of organisations who together have done some remarkable work in helping offer support for the local community around mental health issues over the past year. These guidelines come from a very useful and constructive dialogue between mental health professionals and journalists, to try to help the necessary reporting of the Grenfell story be as sensitive as possible to those who still are still in the early stages of healing from their trauma on that night a year ago.”

Dr John Green, Clinical lead for Grenfell Health & Wellbeing service, said:

“The memorialisations at the Inquiry have been very powerful and emotional, but distressing for the families and others. I have been very impressed at the resilience people have shown in this painful process, and some have needed support at times. Media reporting needs to be mindful of retraumatisation so I’m pleased to support this initiative. It helps journalists do their job with less danger of retraumatising those already affected most.”

Dr Green has written more fully about this here:https://www.cnwl.nhs.uk/news/reporting-trauma-advi...