News

New local NHS and patient & public engagement virtual meeting summary

Virtual meeting held on Zoom on 22 April 2026 Hosted by South Woodham Ferrers Health & Social Care Group (SWFH&SCG)Led by Peter Blackman, Chair, SWFH&SCG Peter referred to and explained: The SWFH&SCG Public Health System – Changes to local NHS held on 23 March 2026  at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Da74zZMigwE The Essex ICB meeting held on Thursday 23 April … Continue reading New local NHS and patient & public engagement virtual meeting summary

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

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