The Border Practice

26/03/2026

Social Prescribing Day celebrates the power of community, connection and non-medical support to improve health and wellbeing. 🌿✨

Social prescribing links people to local activities, groups and services that can help with loneliness, stress, finances, housing, physical health and more. Being part of a community, trying new social activities or accessing practical advice can have a positive impact on both mental and physical wellbeing. Support is available in many different areas, helping people feel more connected and empowered. 💚🤝

Learn about social prescribing: https://ow.ly/FqcI50Yy0zK

💡 Helpful support and resources:
• Improve your financial wellbeing with the Money and Pensions Service: https://ow.ly/bBOS50Yy0wF
• Get advice on housing, immigration and legal issues from Citizens Advice: https://ow.ly/rHcf50Yy0wy
• Find mental and physical health advice at NHS Live Well: https://ow.ly/iXGN50Yy0xL
• Create a free personalised mental health plan with Every Mind Matters: https://ow.ly/WsVU50Yy0ws
• Get active with We Are Undefeatable: https://ow.ly/8naY50Yy0wI
• Support dementia care through Music for Dementia: https://ow.ly/12Eb50Yy0A0
• Find bereavement support services via At A Loss: https://ow.ly/ctlm50Yy0zC

23/03/2026

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, and recognising symptoms early can make a real difference.

Symptoms may include difficulty p*eing, a weak flow, needing to p*e more often (especially at night), discomfort in the pelvic area or blood in urine/semen. If you notice changes, talk to your GP and tell them about any family history of cancer - not just immediate family, as broader history can help guide decisions about checks and referral.

Public figures like Sir Chris Hoy have also shared their cancer journeys to help raise awareness and encourage conversations about men’s health. 💙🩺✨

Learn more about prostate cancer: https://prostatecanceruk.org

Read Chris Hoy’s cancer story: https://www.ourcancerstories.com/cancer-news/chris-hoy-cancer

20/03/2026

Salt plays an important role in the body, but too much can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Many processed foods contain hidden salt, so it’s easy to consume more than recommended. On the other hand, very low salt levels can sometimes contribute to symptoms like muscle cramps, weakness or fluid balance issues, especially if combined with dehydration.

Staying well hydrated, keeping active and aiming for a balanced diet can help support healthy blood pressure. Understanding how salt affects your body can help you make informed choices. 🧂💧🩺✨

Learn about dietary salt and sodium: https://patient.info/healthy-living/healthy-eating/dietary-salt-and-sodium

Read about salt and your blood pressure: https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/your-blood-pressure/how-to-lower-your-blood-pressure/healthy-eating/salt-and-your-blood-pressure/

18/03/2026

Meningitis Outbreak.

We’re aware of reports of a meningitis outbreak in Kent. Please be reassured that our area is not affected, and we have not been advised of any local vaccination programme.

If you feel you may be affected or are concerned about your vaccination status, please contact the surgery and we can review your records.

You can also check your immunisation history anytime on the NHS App.

More information:

A full list of the routine vaccinations offered on the NHS and when they should be given.

18/03/2026

Meningitis can be very serious if not treated quickly.

The NHS website has all the information you need, including what to look out for and when to get medical help.

nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/

18/03/2026

Endometriosis is a long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in places it shouldn’t, often causing symptoms like painful periods, pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, pain during s*x, and fatigue.

Find out more here: https://ow.ly/ICpr50YvnSX

If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms that affect your daily life, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional and describe exactly what you’re experiencing. Early recognition, understanding family history and access to support and reliable information can help you get the care you need. Trusted resources are available to help you learn more about symptoms, management and support. 💛🩺✨

Read about endometriosis symptoms and care from the NHS: https://ow.ly/Athv50YvnS3
Could bad period pains be endometriosis? Learn more: https://ow.ly/huxn50YvnS8
Find endometriosis publications and support: https://ow.ly/o2wl50YvnT2

17/03/2026

Going through a storm - or just been through one? ⛈️ Andy’s Man Club are talking groups for men designed to help you through those storms, whatever they may look like for you.

Whether it’s stress, anxiety, relationships, work, loneliness, or simply needing to talk, you don’t have to face it alone.

Find out more 👉 https://andysmanclub.co.uk
Join the Facebook community 👉 https://www.facebook.com/andysmanclub/?locale=en_GB
📩 info@andysmanclub.co.uk

15/03/2026

Good sleep habits are essential for both physical and mental wellbeing.

Struggling to fall asleep or waking frequently during the night can affect mood, concentration and overall health.

Simple changes like keeping a regular bedtime, reducing screen time before bed, limiting caffeine and creating a calm sleep environment can help improve sleep quality.

Understanding the possible causes of sleep problems and accessing trusted advice can make a real difference. Better sleep supports better days. 😴🌙💙✨

Get NHS tips on falling asleep faster and sleeping better:
https://ow.ly/3hxN50Ytj8Y

Understand common causes of sleep problems:
https://ow.ly/2e6p50Ytj97

Watch helpful sleep videos and advice:
https://ow.ly/Y0Ua50Ytj90

12/03/2026

Symptoms such as ongoing tiredness, swelling, changes in urination or persistent kidney pain should never be ignored. Lifestyle choices, hydration and underlying health conditions all play a role in kidney health.

There is also growing concern about ketamine use in young people, as it can cause serious damage to the bladder and kidneys, sometimes leading to long-term complications. Knowing the risks and acting early can help protect kidney function and overall wellbeing. 🩺💧💙✨

Learn more about kidney health and support:
https://kidneycareuk.org

Take a kidney health check:
https://www.kidneyresearchuk.org/kidney-health-information/kidneyhealthcheck/

Read about ketamine risks and organ damage:
https://www.ukat.co.uk/addiction/drug/ketamine/

11/03/2026

Young Carers Action Day shines a light on the incredible young people who help care for family members, often balancing responsibilities at home with school and friendships.

The 2026 theme focuses on Action for Equality, calling for better recognition, improved support in schools, access to training and employment opportunities, and meaningful breaks so young carers can thrive just like their p*ers.

Some young carers may miss school activities or struggle with their mental health due to caring responsibilities, which is why awareness and understanding matter. Schools, organisations and communities can access resources and posters to help raise awareness and ensure young carers are not held back. 💙🌟✨

Learn more about Young Carers Action Day 2026:
https://carers.org/young-carers-action-day/young-carers-action-day

Access awareness resources:
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/event/young-carers-awareness-day-2026

10/03/2026

Tomorrow is No Smoking Day, a great opportunity to take the first step towards a smoke free future.

Smoking harms nearly every organ in the body and increases the risk of heart disease, cancer and stroke. Some people turn to va**ng to help them quit smoking, but it’s important to understand the facts, including concerns often raised about “popcorn lung” and other myths.

Getting the right information and support can help you make an informed decision and move towards better health. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your body. 🚭💙✨

Learn what you need to know about va**ng:
https://ash.org.uk/key-topics/va**ng-what-you-need-to-know

Read va**ng myths and the facts:
https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/ready-to-quit-smoking/va**ng-to-quit-smoking/va**ng-myths-and-the-facts/

Get free NHS quit smoking support:
https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/

08/03/2026

𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 is a time to celebrate women’s strength and resilience, and also a reminder to prioritise your health. Attending cervical screening and breast screening when invited can help detect changes early, often before symptoms appear, improving outcomes and saving lives. 💐💗🩺✨

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 : https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/cervical-screening/

𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 (𝗺𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺) : https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/breast-screening-mammogram/

Looking after your mental health is just as important, especially if current media stories feel overwhelming or triggering.

𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗡𝗛𝗦 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 : https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 : https://patient.info/features/healthy-living/how-to-look-after-your-mental-health-on-social-media

With Mother’s Day approaching, this time of year can also bring up feelings of grief and bereavement for many people, and support is available if you need it. Taking care of your physical and emotional wellbeing matters.

𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 : https://www.cruse.org.uk/understanding-grief/managing-grief/grieving-on-mothers-day/