You will have heard in the national media about the extreme pressure that the NHS is under – in particular the urgent care system, with delays to ambulances getting to people and delays offloading at hospitals.

In Herefordshire our hard working staff are doing all they can across the whole health and care sector to protect our urgent care so that we can treat the most vulnerable and at risk people with emergency conditions.

This week our urgent care system is under even more pressure and everyone can play their part in supporting our system.

“There has been a lot in the news about not being able to access GPs,” said Mike Hearne, Taurus managing director.

“In Herefordshire there is generally very good access to GPs with an evening/weekend service and an additional remote service - there are appointments available to be seen on the day if you need more urgent advice.

“You may have to wait a little longer than normal if your needs are more routine. Remember that your GP works in a wider team so help us to help you find the right professional,” added Mike.

Many coughs and colds can be treated effectively at home, without the need to seek medical advice. Anyone with concerns about winter illnesses is encouraged to speak to their local pharmacist, who can provide expert advice on a range of minor ailments such as coughs, colds and tummy troubles, or pop into their local opticians for eye issues.

Advice and information on a range of illnesses is also available via the HANDI App.

Sarah Dugan, Herefordshire and Worcestershire NHS Health and Care Trust chief executive, said: “Anyone needing mental health support can access support services without going to a local GP - we provide a 24/7 mental health helpline which is free and available 365 days a year on 0808 196 9127.

“The team offers advice, support and, if required, an assessment to understand how you are feeling.”

A dedicated mental health website – www.nowweretalking.nhs.uk – has lots more information including self-help guides, access to online courses, and details of community support.

“If you are worried that you may have cancer, it’s important that you do not delay coming forward. We have the capacity to see you quickly and conduct the diagnostic tests you need,” said Jane Ives, managing director at Wye Valley NHS Trust.

“If you have elderly or frail neighbours and relatives please can you pay extra attention to them and check on them more regularly during this very cold weather in particular. If you are worried about them, do use NHS 111 (over the phone on via the website) and your GP practice team to get support, advice and any treatment they may need. Early intervention is important and may prevent a hospital admission,” Jane added.

Hilary Hall, corporate director community wellbeing, community wellbeing at Herefordshire Council, said: “If you would like some support in your community with information, advice and signposting or somewhere to visit in your community please visit one of our 68 Talk Community hubs - Talk Community Hubs - Talk Community Directory  or a warm space Warm spaces in Herefordshire - Talk Community Directory and you can also access information online via  Homepage - Talk Community : Talk Community.”

It’s important that people try to keep warm and take regular hydration and keep themselves as well as possible, and with Christmas a little over a week away, now is the time to make sure medicine cabinets are stocked.

We would like to pay tribute to all of our staff who are working incredibly hard to provide the care and support that everyone needs.

Ends

Notes to Editors WVT:

Issued on behalf of the One Herefordshire Partnership, a formal partnership that covers social, primary, secondary, mental and community health and care services in Herefordshire to lead the delivery of integrated care for local people.

For further information please contact:

John Burnett, Communication and Engagement Manager, Wye Valley NHS Trust: 01432 372928