Launch screenings of our film, ‘The Impact of Covid on Dying, Death & Bereavement’ have started. SWF’s was held on Friday 14 June, graced by the presence of Town Mayor, Cllr Alan Shearring. There’s no doubt there remains a very painful legacy from Covid for those who were bereaved in such awful, unusual circumstances. Our film aims to help unlock that and identify some ways of improving things for the next inevitable pandemic. Our film will be submitted to the Covid Public Inquiry and will be published for free use after the Chelmsford launch on 27 June.
The last available data says Covid cases are increasing again; hospitalisations remain stable. Only 56% of people over 75 have received their Spring booster vaccination; if you’re due one please book usingthe NHS national booking system . With COVID-19 still circulating, it’s important those at highest risk who are eligible get their vaccine to top up immunity. This programme runs until 30 June. Flu and respiratory infections remain stable at low levels.
The outbreak across the country of E.coli is most likely linked to a nationally distributed food item. Tests are being undertaken to track down the source. If you get severe symptoms of bloody diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting and fever call 111 or contact your GP surgery. The total number of cases in England reported on 6 June was 81.
UKHSA says there are more increases in STIs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases). Gonorrhoea and Syphilis cases have doubled in the last decade. The best way to avoid STIs is to use condoms “consistently and correctly” with new or casual sexual partners.
The independent health think tank The King’s Fund reports that in 2024/25 the main financial challenge facing NHS organisations, NHS leaders and their staff is how they balance their books while protecting patient safety, given many organisations are having to achieve significant efficiency savings. The survey of NHS leaders carried out by the NHS Confederation shows that many NHS organisations are having to meet high efficiency targets of 5% and beyond, with some as high as 11%. This is the tightest financial position NHS organisations have faced in years.
The Royal College of Nursing reports that more than 1 in 3 (37%) nursing staff working in typical hospital settings delivered care in inappropriate settings, such as corridors, on their last shift. The report shares the results of a survey of almost 11,000 frontline nursing staff across the UK. The report calls for mandatory national reporting of patients being cared for in corridors, to reveal the extent of hospital overcrowding, as part of a plan to eradicate the practice.
The General Election is on 4 July. Pre-election restrictions mean there are less government and public sector data and bulletins until after that. We’re doing our best to keep up to date with developments. English Junior Doctors talks with the government about their pay dispute have been postponed due to the Election. In frustration the Junior Doctors are striking for 5-days from 0700 on 27 June to 0700 2 July. Public health news is on our website and in weekly e-newsletters. SWF Library provides online services and help with internet access. For health & welfare information and subscription to our newsletter, email swfhealthsocial@outlook.com , or leave voicemails on 01245 322079 https://swfhealthsocial.co.uk/
SWF Health & Social Care Group 