Sandy Lane Surgery

27/03/2026

GPs, nurses, and pharmacists will no longer routinely prescribe certain over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol, vitamins, antihistamines, creams, eye drops, laxatives, and treatments for minor conditions like warts or mild pain.

This change is part of a nationwide effort to reduce unnecessary NHS spending. These medicines are widely available to buy at low cost from pharmacies and supermarkets, yet prescribing them costs the NHS millions of pounds each year — funding that could be better used for more serious and urgent medical care.

We understand this may be an adjustment, but our priority is to ensure NHS resources are used where they are needed most. If you’re unsure about what to buy or need advice, your local pharmacist is an excellent first point of contact.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
For more information please visit:https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/1a-over-the-counter-leaflet-v1.pdf

26/03/2026

Make sure you don't miss important message from the NHS and Sandy Lane Surgery!
To make sure you stay in the loop, here's how you can manage your notification preferences on the NHS App and then you can see your messages from us:

1️⃣ Log in to the NHS App.
2️⃣ Tap the Account icon in the top corner.
3️⃣ Select "Settings."
4️⃣ Hit "Manage notifications."
5️⃣ Follow the link to adjust your device settings! 📲
Watch the how to video from the NHS App Team 👉https://bit.ly/4hTSFOZ

25/03/2026

If you’ve had a testing kit through the post, don’t forget to send it back. Your next poo could save your life. Find out more: nhs.uk/bowelRecieved a bowel screening test kit in the post? Don't delay

24/03/2026

Don't ignore your invite for Cervical Screening. Please call us on ☎ 01772 286890 to book or you can book via the 📲 NHS app.

19/03/2026

🚨Important Information: A batch of Ramipril 5mg (Batch GR164099) has been recalled as some packs contain Amlodipine instead. Please check your pack and blister strips. If it contains Amlodipine or you’re unsure, contact your pharmacy. Seek medical advice if you feel dizzy or light headed.

17/03/2026

🚨 Important Update: Meningitis B Vaccine 🚨

Meningitis B vaccination is currently offered to all babies, with a booster given at 12 months of age.

At present, older children and adolescents are not eligible for this vaccine through the routine programme unless national guidance changes.

This afternoon, the Health Secretary announced in Parliament that the government will begin a targeted vaccination programme for students living in halls at the University of Kent.

If you would like to check whether your child is covered, please contact our reception team on 01772 286890 📞

We will continue to monitor any updates to national guidance and will inform our patients promptly of any changes.

06/03/2026

Togetherall is a free, safe, and anonymous online mental health support service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

🌙 Whether it’s late at night, after a stressful day, or when things just feel overwhelming, Togetherall is there for you.

On Togetherall you can:
✅ Share how you’re feeling anonymously
✅ Connect with a supportive community
✅ Access helpful self-care resources and courses
✅ Express yourself through creative tools
✅ Get support from trained professionals

Everything is completely confidential, and you can use it whenever you need.

🌐 Find out more or sign up here: www.togetherall.com

03/03/2026

03/03/2026

📣📣Attention📣📣
The surgery will be closed this afternoon (3.3.26) from 1pm for staff training. We will re-open Wednesday 4.3.26 at 8am.
For genuine medical emergencies - please call 999.
If you require assistance and cannot wait until the practice re-opens please call 111.

01/03/2026

In England, nearly two women die a day from cervical cancer. Don’t ignore your cervical screening invite, and if you missed your last one, book an appointment with your GP practice today.

Cervical screening saves lives. For more information visit http://nhs.uk/cervicalscreening

27/02/2026

Every cigarette takes around 20 minutes off your life. Get your free NHS Personal Quit Plan today! 🚭
https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/ready-to-quit-smoking/personal-quit-plan/

26/02/2026

Your pharmacist can provide treatment or some prescription medicine, if needed, for seven common conditions - without you seeing a GP.
Think pharmacy first and get seen by your local community pharmacy team.
👉www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/how-pharmacies-can-help/