Widcombe Surgery

30/03/2026

Today is National Doctors' Day and an opportunity to recognise the hard work and dedication of our team of GPs,l.

The work of a GP requires not only extensive knowledge and skill, but also deep compassion and patience as they support patients, and their families, through illness, recovery, and sometimes difficult diagnoses.

Beyond treating illnesses our GPs provide reassurance, guidance and hope during some of the most difficult moments in people’s lives. The work they do behind the scenes, as shown in the picture, is often not seen but is vital to patients even though they may be unaware of it.

Their commitment and resilience highlight not only how hard they work, but also how essential they are to the wellbeing of our local community.

We are very proud of all our lovely GPs and celebrate them today!

27/03/2026

⏰ Don’t forget — the clocks go forward one hour on Sunday 29 March!

That means lighter evenings are on the way 🌞 — perfect for walks, runs or outdoor time with family and friends.

A quick reminder on the health benefits of daylight and movement:
• More daylight → more opportunity for activity
• Light exposure can help improve mood
• Outdoor time supports better sleep

👉 NHS tips for staying active:

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise

23/03/2026

📋 Need help from the surgery? Here’s the best way to contact us

The quickest way to request help from a GP or clinician is by completing our online triage form.

This allows our clinical team to review your request and ensure you are directed to the most appropriate care.

Depending on your needs, we may:
• Arrange a telephone call
• Book a face-to-face appointment
• Provide advice
• Direct you to another appropriate service

You can submit a request here:
👉 https://accurx.nhs.uk/patient-initiated/L81020

If you are unable to complete the form online, our reception team can help you.

Contact us about your request

18/03/2026

🌱 Spring is a great time to focus on your health

As the days get longer and the weather starts to improve, spring can be a good opportunity to make a few small changes that support your health and wellbeing.

Simple steps that can make a difference:

• 🚶‍♂️ Get outside for regular walks or physical activity
• 🥗 Try adding more fruit and vegetables to your meals
• 💧 Stay well hydrated
• 😴 Aim for good quality sleep
• 📱 Check your NHS App for test results, messages and to manage repeat prescriptions

Small habits can help improve both your physical and mental wellbeing over time.

You can find more NHS advice on healthy lifestyle changes here:

👉

NHS advice about healthy living, including eating a balanced diet, healthy weight, exercise, quitting smoking and drinking less alcohol.

17/03/2026

Meningitis B (MenB) – Important information for parents
We are aware of recent news reports about meningitis cases in Kent and understand this may be worrying for families. We would like to provide some reassurance and guidance.
Cases of meningitis remain rare, and vaccination offers the best protection.

👉 The MenB vaccine has been part of the UK routine childhood programme since September 2015 and is offered at:

8 weeks
12 weeks
12 months

If a child missed their MenB vaccine:

✅ Children under 2 years old can still receive catch-up vaccination on the NHS

❌ Children aged 2 and over are not routinely eligible, unless advised by Public Health or due to a specific medical condition.

At present, NHS eligibility has not changed in response to the Kent cases. Public Health teams will directly contact anyone who requires antibiotics or vaccination.

If your child is up to date with their routine vaccinations, they are protected in line with national guidance.

👉 What should you do?

If your child is under 2 and has missed MenB, please contact the surgery
If you have been contacted by Public Health, please follow their advice

Otherwise, there is no need to contact the surgery

Thank you for your understanding and support.

16/03/2026

🩺 A quick reminder for patients submitting triage requests

When you complete a triage form, your request is reviewed by a clinician who may need to call you back to discuss your symptoms and decide the best next step.

Recently, we have had a number of occasions where patients have not been able to answer when we call them back. When this happens it can unfortunately delay care and means appointment slots may need to be offered to other patients waiting for help.

Please keep your phone nearby after submitting a request, as the call may come from:
• The surgery number
• A withheld number
• A clinician working remotely

If you miss our call, please contact the surgery as soon as possible so we can try to rearrange contact.

Thank you for helping us respond quickly and ensure appointments go to the patients who need them most.

13/03/2026

🏃‍♀️ Good luck to everyone taking part in the Bath Half Marathon this Sunday! 🎉

This iconic local event celebrates fitness, community and charity — and we’re cheering on every runner, walker & supporter along the route!

Whether you’re running 13.1 miles, supporting a friend, or enjoying the atmosphere, it’s a great reminder of how active living boosts both physical and mental wellbeing!

12/03/2026

🚗 Request for Information – Car Park Incident

On Thursday 5th March, a member of staff’s car was knocked by another vehicle in the surgery car park.

Our CCTV shows the driver getting out of the vehicle and checking the damage, however no note was left on the car and the incident was not reported to the surgery.

We do have the incident recorded on CCTV. However, before taking this further, we would prefer to give the person involved the opportunity to contact the surgery directly to make themselves known so the matter can be resolved.

If this was you, or if you have any information that may help, please contact Widcombe Surgery reception.

Thank you for your help.

12/03/2026

11/03/2026

🚭 Today is No Smoking Day — a UK-wide health awareness day encouraging people to make a quit attempt or cut down on smoking.
Whether you’re thinking about stopping for the first time, trying again, or supporting someone you care about, every attempt matters.

Quitting smoking improves your health quickly — within weeks you’ll notice better breathing, more energy, and long-term benefits for your heart and lungs.

Want to quit smoking? It doesn’t have to be a drag Your local Bath & North East Somerset Stop Smoking service offers FREE support to local people who are thinking of and wanting to take positive steps towards stopping smoking. No matter how long you’ve smoked, quitting benefits your health right...

09/03/2026

Our Spring COVID booster clinics start on Saturday 18 April at Widcombe Surgery.

Eligible patients are already being invited by SMS, email or letter. If you receive an invitation, please use the booking link in the message to arrange your appointment.

If you’ve received an invite but cannot book using the link, please call the surgery on 01225 310883 and we will help you book.