Have Your Say on the Future of Our Local Health Services

Neighbourhood Health is coming, and our local Integrated Neighbourhood Teams (INTs) are already working more closely together to better support patients, carers and the wider community. But so far, we — the patients, service users, carers and public — haven't been asked what we think. And that matters. We've long championed the principle of "No … Continue reading Have Your Say on the Future of Our Local Health Services

An update from SWF Health & Social Care Group

Updated and new items first: There have been a few new cases in the Home Counties, sadly including the death of an Oxfordshire student, of a different strain of meningitis to that of the recent outbreak in Kent. Health authorities say whilst cases of meningitis are regular occurrences the riskof them remains low. This paper … Continue reading An update from SWF Health & Social Care Group

An update from SWF Health & Social Care Group

A relatively quiet week with the elections happening. Updated and new items first: This serious issue about shortages of, and supply problems with, medicines is now getting more local and national coverage, thanks perhaps to the representations we have made about this in recent weeks. The struggle getting hold of medication in SWF is getting … Continue reading An update from SWF Health & Social Care Group

What is hantavirus? How is it transmitted and what are the symptoms?

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is monitoring and providing public health advice regarding an outbreak of hantavirus linked to a Dutch cruise ship. As of Tuesday 5 May, 6 individuals have become unwell, 2 of whom have been confirmed as having hantavirus.  Read the new post: https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/05/05/what-is-hantavirus-how-is-it-transmitted-and-what-are-the-symptoms/

Essex Caring Communities Delivery Plan Launch

This Delivery Plan for Essex’s communities and civil society is timely as our NHS and local authorities are changing and developing. The actions will strengthen the county’s wellbeing by empowering carers, neighbours, voluntary groups and social enterprises. Responsibility for delivery of clear actions and aims is clearly apportioned so this does not ‘get shelved’. We … Continue reading Essex Caring Communities Delivery Plan Launch