Garstang Medical Practice

31/03/2026

30/03/2026

As we move into spring, we want to help our patients stay healthy and protected. COVID-19 is still with us, and for those at higher risk, a “booster” dose helps top up your protection. You are eligible if you are:
- Aged 75 or over (or if you turn 75 by 30 June 2026)
- Living in a care home for older adults
- Aged 6 months or over with a weakened immune system (for example, due to a health condition or treatment like chemotherapy).
Please phone the surgery to book your appointment.

30/03/2026

Good nutrition and hydration are essential for overall health, energy levels and how your body feels day to day.

Eating a balanced diet with a variety of fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and protein helps fuel your body, while drinking enough water supports circulation, digestion and joint health. Hydration also plays a role in keeping connective tissues, including fascia, supple and functioning well. Small, realistic changes to your diet can make a big difference over time, and planning ahead is especially important during periods of fasting to maintain safe hydration and nutrient intake. 🥗💧💙✨

Explore NHS healthy eating advice: https://ow.ly/Xftx50YzC3J
Learn about water, drinks and hydration: https://ow.ly/wnjz50YzC3F
Read about making small healthy diet changes: https://ow.ly/GmWc50YzC40
Find guidance on fasting safely during Ramadan: https://ow.ly/W1eb50YzC3P

28/03/2026

Don't forget! ⏰

The clocks go forward 1 hour this Sunday for Daylight Saving Time.

If your clocks don't update automatically, remember to change them before going to bed on Saturday night.

A simple change, but an easy one to forget!

27/03/2026

Did you hear our befriending volunteer, Shirley, live on BBC Lancashire Radio this weekend? She joined Fiona Sadler on the daytime show to talk about why she decided to become a befriending volunteer and the incredible impact it has on vulnerable, lonely and isolated residents.

Listen to the interview on BBC Sounds (available at 1:23:30)
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002sm9n

Could you spare as little as an hour a week to help us combat loneliness? We have many people waiting to be matched with a volunteer befriender - please visit www.wyre.gov.uk/befriending to apply online. You can also contact our Befriending Coordinator by calling 01253 887234 or emailing befriending@wyre.gov.uk.

27/03/2026

BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is a simple calculation that uses your height and weight to estimate whether your weight is in a healthy range 📊

Knowing your BMI can help identify if you may be underweight, overweight or at risk of health conditions linked to weight, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.

While BMI is a useful starting point, it does not tell the whole story 👇
Waist measurement is also important, as carrying extra weight around your middle can increase your risk of health problems, even if your BMI falls within a healthy range.

Understanding both measurements can help you make informed choices about your health and seek support if needed 💙✨

Calculate your BMI:
https://ow.ly/horN50Yy9Gi

Learn about waist measurement and type 2 diabetes risk:
https://ow.ly/Nmv350Yy9Fa

26/03/2026

🌿National Social Prescribing Day 🌿

Today we’re celebrating the power of Social Prescribing and the difference it can make in people’s lives 💚

Social prescribing is all about looking beyond medical needs – recognising that things like loneliness, stress, finances or life challenges can have a big impact on our mental health.

Our Social Prescribers, Jenny and Abbie work alongside our clinicians to support people in a way that truly puts them first.
✨ We listen without judgement
✨ We help you identify what matters to you
✨ We connect you to local services, groups and activities
✨ We support you every step of the way

Whether it’s reducing isolation, building confidence or finding the right support, social prescribing can help you take positive steps towards better wellbeing.

Do you have social, emotional or practical concerns and need a little extra support? Our Social Prescribing Team is here to help.

Together, we can talk through what matters to you and help you find local services and activities that make a real difference.

If you feel you would benefit from a referral to the Social Prescribing Service, please ask your GP during your next appointment.

24/03/2026

Befriending Volunteers (Wyre)

There is currently a four month waiting list for people wishing to access this service.
Could you spare from as little as one hour per week to help us combat loneliness in our community?

You can apply to become a volunteer via the Wyre Council website: https://www.wyre.gov.uk/volunteering/befriending-volunteers

If you have any questions about volunteer befriending in the Wyre area, please email befriending@wyre.gov.uk or call 01253 887234.

All volunteers must be aged 18+

Wyre Council is aiming to recruit volunteers for a new befriending service, to support and spend time with lonely, vulnerable and isolated residents.

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

Cases of invasive meningococcal disease have been confirmed in Kent. Sadly, 2 people are known to have died. It's important to know the signs of symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia. Get more info from NHS.
🔗 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/WSYA50YvnQo

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/i3L050YvnQp
Could bad period pains be endometriosis? Learn more: https://ow.ly/QPjx50YvnQq
Find endometriosis publications and support: https://ow.ly/F7cZ50YvnQs