Together First CIC, Barking (2026)

22/01/2026

Parents and carers in Barking & Dagenham — did you know the MMRV vaccine is now part of the NHS routine childhood vaccination programme?

MMRV protects children against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox in one vaccine. Chickenpox is extremely common and, while usually mild, it can sometimes lead to complications — vaccination helps reduce this risk and keeps children protected as they grow.

This vaccine isn’t new. It has been safely and widely used for many years in countries including the USA, Germany and Australia.

If your child is registered with a Barking & Dagenham GP practice, you can now book their routine immunisation appointment yourself, with flexible appointments available in the evenings and at weekends, seven days a week, across four local locations.

No need to worry about taking time off work or school — protecting your child’s health can now fit around family life.

👉 Book here: https://togetherfirst.co.uk/booking-measles/

21/01/2026

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is a reminder of the importance of taking steps to protect your health. Cervical screening helps detect abnormal cells before they can turn into cancer, and attending when invited can save lives.

Understanding the facts, challenging common myths and knowing what to expect from screening can help reduce anxiety and encourage more people to attend. Reliable information and support are available to help you make informed choices about your cervical health. 💗🩺✨

Learn more from The Eve Appeal: https://eveappeal.org.uk/

Read NHS guidance on cervical screening: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/cervical-screening/

Explore myths and facts about cervical screening: https://patient.info/features/cancer/what-are-the-common-myths-and-facts-about-cervical-screening

20/01/2026

We’re delighted to spotlight an inspiring and impactful session taking place at the Best Practice London Event in the General Practice Management Theatre on Thursday 26th February 2026 from 13:30 to 14:15.

“Neighbourhood matters: tackling health inequalities in the east of Barking & Dagenham” will shine a powerful light on how community, connection and collaboration can make a real difference in one of London’s most deprived boroughs – and the area with the lowest health literacy levels.

This thought-provoking session will explore how neighbourhood-based approaches have been supporting residents over the past three years, demonstrating the vital role of primary care, care coordinators, and local networks in reducing health inequalities and improving outcomes.

You’ll hear directly from a passionate and experienced panel:

Dr Sharmin Ria, GP and Health Inequalities Joint Lead, East One PCN

Dr Shanika Sharma, GP and Clinical Director, Barking & Dagenham Health Inequalities Leads Programme

Lance Curran, Care Coordinator, East One PCN

Lucy Walsh, Care Coordinator, East One PCN

If you’re attending the event, make sure this session is firmly on your list – you’ll want to hear from this brilliant team and learn from their real-world experience, insight, and innovation.

20/01/2026

MMRV is now part of the NHS routine childhood vaccination programme, replacing the MMR vaccine.

This single vaccine protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox. Chickenpox is very common in childhood and, while often mild, it can sometimes lead to more serious complications. Vaccination helps reduce this risk and protects children as they grow.

The MMRV vaccine is already well established and widely used in countries including the USA, Germany and Australia, providing reassurance to parents and carers.

If your child is registered with a Barking & Dagenham GP practice, you can now self-book their routine immunisation appointment at a time that works for you. Appointments are available evenings and weekends, 7 days a week, across four local locations — helping families avoid taking time off work or school.

To book, you’ll just need your child’s name, date of birth, s*x and postcode.

👉 https://togetherfirst.co.uk/booking-measles/

Protecting children against vaccine-preventable illnesses like measles and chickenpox has never been more flexible. 💉👶

19/01/2026

New Job Opportunity: Site Administrator 💼

Together First CIC is looking for a Site Administrator to take the lead at our clinical hub. If you have experience in a healthcare setting and are a pro with EMIS Web, we want to hear from you!

This is a fantastic opportunity to manage the operational side of a busy clinic, ensuring high standards of patient care and governance.

📌 Barking & Dagenham 📌 Competitive Salary 📌 Clinical Hub Environment

Check out the full job description and apply here: https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/candidate/jobadvert/M0005-26-0000

19/01/2026

Sinusitis can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as facial pain or pressure, a blocked or runny nose, headaches and reduced sense of smell. While many cases improve on their own, treatments like pain relief, nasal sprays, steam inhalation and self-care can help ease symptoms, and medical advice may be needed if symptoms last longer or worsen. Knowing the signs and treatment options can help you manage sinusitis more effectively and understand when to seek help. 🤧💧🩺✨

Read detailed clinical information on sinusitis: https://patient.info/doctor/ear-nose-throat/sinusitis-pro

Get NHS advice on symptoms and treatment: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sinusitis-sinus-infection/

16/01/2026

During National Obesity Awareness Week, the NHS Digital Weight Management Programme highlights the support available to help people achieve and maintain a healthier weight. This free, online programme is designed for eligible adults and focuses on practical tools for healthier eating, increasing physical activity and making sustainable behaviour changes that last. 🚶‍♂️💙

Taking part can help improve confidence, boost energy levels and support both physical and mental wellbeing over the long term. Support is flexible, accessible from home and built around real-life routines, making healthier changes more achievable. 🥗✨

Learn more about the NHS Digital Weight Management Programme: https://www.england.nhs.uk/digital-weight-management/

15/01/2026

Balancing school, exams and everyday life can feel overwhelming at times. That’s why members of the BAD Youth Forum have created “Balancing Your Mind Over Marks”, a guide designed to help young people put their mental health first while managing the pressures of education.

The guide explores common challenges faced by students and offers practical advice on building healthier habits that support both mental and physical wellbeing. Looking after your mind is just as important as focusing on your studies, and the right guidance can make a real difference.

The full resource is available online and can be accessed via the link below. Please feel free to share with young people, families, and anyone who may find it helpful.

➡️ https://heyzine.com/flip-book/6cf0ec83a7.html /1

14/01/2026

You can get oral contraception and emergency contraception directly from participating pharmacies, without needing a prescription or GP appointment. This makes accessing contraception quicker and more convenient, helping you stay in control of your s*xual health. Trained pharmacy teams can offer confidential advice and support to help you choose the right option for you. 💊🩺

Emergency contraception can stop you getting pregnant after unprotected s*x (s*x without contraception or when contraception might have failed). If you need emergency contraception after having unprotected s*x, speak to your local pharmacist as soon as you can. You need to use emergency contraception within 3 to 5 days of having unprotected s*x. ✨

Find a pharmacy offering contraception without a prescription: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/find-a-pharmacy-offering-contraceptive-pill-without-prescription/

12/01/2026

Living well is about taking care of your health in ways that fit into everyday life, and trusted NHS advice can support you at every step. 💙✨

Whether you want to eat a more balanced diet, reach or maintain a healthy weight, move your body more, improve your sleep, quit smoking or cut down on alcohol, there is practical guidance to help you make lasting changes.

Support is also available for addiction and s*xual health, helping you look after both your physical and mental wellbeing. Making small, positive changes today can lead to a healthier, happier future. 🌱💪

Explore NHS Live Well advice on healthy eating, exercise, sleep, addiction and s*xual health: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/

09/01/2026

Starting the new year smoke free can make a huge difference to your health, finances and wellbeing. 🚭

Creating a personal quit smoking plan helps you understand your triggers, set clear goals and prepare for cravings so you can quit with confidence and support. Taking that first step today can lead to lasting change. 💪✨

Create your personal quit smoking plan: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/ready-to-quit-smoking/personal-quit-plan/

If you would like more support, you can contact your GP practice and they will be able to help you get started on your journey to quit smoking 🚭🌱✨

07/01/2026

Colds are very common in babies and toddlers, and while they can be worrying, most get better on their own with simple care.

Keeping your child comfortable with fluids, rest and age-appropriate remedies can help ease symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical advice is important for peace of mind. Trusted guidance can help you support your child safely at home. 👶🤧💙

NHS advice on colds and infections in young children: https://ow.ly/z3kM50XKcGs

Patient advice on coughs and colds in children: https://ow.ly/eSTq50XKcGc

Together First CIC

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