Rawnsley Surgery Official

20/03/2026

𝗠𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘀 𝗕

Further to the outbreak of Meningitis B (Men B in Kent, we are understandably receiving a high volume of requests regarding vaccination and risks.

The NHS provides vaccinations to protect against Men B to babies aged between 8 weeks and 2 years of age. The NHS does not routinely provide Men B vaccinations to anyone over the age of 2 except for children and adults who are severely immunocompromised eg, no spleen. If you or your child did not receive the routine Men B vaccinations and are 𝘀𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗹𝘆 immunocompromised please contact us and we will check whether or not you/they are eligible for vaccination on the NHS.

Children in school year 9 are routinely offered the Men ACWY vaccination by the NHS which provides protection against Meningitis A, Meningitis C, Meningitis W and Meningitis Y.

Patients may wish to source a Men B vaccination privately, however the practice is not able to recommend private organisations.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are providing regular updates on the following web page: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease-confirmed-in-kent and further information about Meningitis B can be found on the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/menb-vaccine-for-children/

The practice is receiving regular updates and if our guidance changes we will contact patients affected. Please ensure that you have notifications on your NHS app switched on and that we have your correct mobile phone number / email address details.

Find out about the MenB vaccine for children, including who should have it, how to get it, side effects and how well it works.

01/02/2026

Weight management medication is only available under strict criteria and not via GP referral or prescription. Please don’t contact your surgery. Check local services you may be eligible for: https://staffsstokeics.org.uk/local-weight-management-services/

24/09/2025

💚 Organ Donation Week

One conversation could save a life. Talking to your loved ones about your wishes means they can support your decision when it matters most.

Learn why it’s so important:
https://ow.ly/wSpk50WZqnT
https://ow.ly/usR050WZqnW

08/09/2025

⚕️ High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer,” usually has no obvious symptoms — yet it is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.

📊 Regularly checking your blood pressure is one of the most important steps you can take for your long-term health. Small lifestyle changes such as improving your diet, increasing activity, and reducing salt can make a significant difference.

📽 Watch this evidence-based video to learn practical strategies to reduce blood pressure: https://ow.ly/uYV150WQrc6

ℹ️ Find more resources and advice here: https://ow.ly/iBss50WQrc0

06/09/2025

Emergency Alerts Test – Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm

What to know:
The UK Government will be running a test of the Emergency Alerts system at 3 pm on Sunday 7 September.

Phones and tablets that are compatible will emit a loud siren-like sound and vibrate, even if on silent.

You do not need to take any action during the alert — it's just a test.

This system is designed to warn you of local dangers like severe weather or other emergencies.

Important advice for those at risk of coercive control or domestic abuse: If you’re caring for someone who has a concealed phone or you're in a situation where unexpected alerts could cause harm, it’s vital to be aware and prepared.

Want to opt out?
You can turn off the Emergency Alerts for your device via this official page: gov.uk/alerts/opting-out

Need support or guidance? Leeds Women’s Aid offers tailored information and help on this:
leedswomensaid.co.uk/emergency-alert-test-sunday-7-september-2025

Why it's important:
Regular testing keeps the system reliable in real emergencies, when lives may depend on it.

Stay informed, stay safe.

05/09/2025

🤒 Is My Child Too Ill for School?

Sniffles or something more serious? It’s not always easy to tell when your child should stay home or head to class.

The NHS has clear guidance to help you decide – and to protect other children from spreading illness.

📌 Check the advice here:https://patient.info/news-and-features/when-is-your-child-too-sick-to-go-to-school?utm_source=MSMS

Let’s keep everyone healthy this term!

04/09/2025

🌍 World Sexual Health Day – 4 September 2025
This year’s theme, "Sexual Justice: What Can We Do?", reminds us that access to accurate and inclusive sexual health care is a basic right for all. Learn more:
🔗 https://worldsexualhealthday.org/world-sexual-health-day-2025/

💊 Curious about the combined contraceptive pill? It’s one of the most reliable forms of contraception. Find out how it works, who can use it, and the benefits here:
🔗 https://www.nhs.uk/contraception/methods-of-contraception/combined-pill/

🌐 Looking for trustworthy sexual health information, from contraception to STIs and relationships?
Explore resources at Patient.info:
🔗 https://patient.info/sexual-health?utm_source=MSMS

01/09/2025

UTIs are common, but recognising the symptoms early can help prevent complications. Look out for burning during urination, frequent urges to p*e, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and tummy or back pain. If symptoms persist, see a pharmacist or book with your GP. More info: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/

Men, if you notice changes such as painful urination, lumps, itching, or bumps on the p***s, it’s often nothing serious — but it’s always best to check. Read about what to look out for and when to get advice: https://patient.info/news-and-features/p***s-problems-you-shouldnt-ignore

Stay informed, stay healthy.

31/08/2025

🕯️ International Overdose Awareness Day – 31 August

Today we remember the lives lost to overdose and stand with families, friends, and communities affected around the world.

Overdose can affect anyone – from any background, at any age. Let’s work together to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and take action.

🟣 Learn more and get involved:
https://www.overdoseday.com/

💜 We remember. We act.

29/08/2025

🤰 Just found out you’re expecting? Start your pregnancy care today! You can now refer yourself directly to NHS maternity services using a simple online form—no GP appointment required. If you're over 10 weeks, it's still absolutely okay to apply.

A midwife will contact you to set up your first appointment (ideally by 10 weeks, but sooner is always better).

Find your nearest service and get started here:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/refer-yourself-for-nhs-pregnancy-care/

27/08/2025

☀️ Prickly heat got you feeling uncomfortable?
Heat rash can cause small, itchy red spots—often in skin folds or under clothing.

💡 Top tips to prevent & soothe:
👕 Wear loose, light clothes
❄️ Stay cool & dry
🚿 Take cool showers
💧 Drink plenty of fluids

Keep safe in the heat & look after your skin.
More info from the NHS 👉 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heat-rash-prickly-heat/