Summer newsletter 2026
Last Updated: Friday, 26 June 2026
Summer Newsletter 2026
As we move into the summer months, we’d like to thank all of our patients for your continued support.
We were really pleased with the response to our request in the Spring Newsletter to update your contact details, particularly email addresses. Having up-to-date information helps us communicate more effectively and keep you informed about your care. As mentioned last time, we will increasingly use email as our primary method of communication rather than SMS where appropriate. Please ensure your email address is up to date by contacting reception or updating via the NHS App or our Digital Front Door.
Practice Update – Staffing
We say a fond farewell to Dr St John, who is relocating to Cheshire. We thank her for her contribution to the practice and wish her every success for the future.
We are pleased to confirm that Dr Harvey and Dr Patel have been appointed as permanent GPs on our team. By keeping both doctors this will allow us to offer additional GP sessions and more appointments, improving access for patients over the coming months.
Know Your Numbers – Blood Pressure Awareness
This September we are supporting Know Your Numbers Week, a national campaign encouraging everyone to check their blood pressure.
High blood pressure (hypertension) often has no symptoms, but it can increase your risk of serious conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Regular checks are important, particularly if you are over 40 or have risk factors.
We encourage all patients to take a moment to learn more about blood pressure and what your numbers mean:
Learn more about hypertension and blood pressure on our website
You can also find out more about the national campaign here: Know Your Numbers Week – Blood Pressure UK
AI Triage – Update
We continue to test our AI triage system to help improve how patients access care.
- The latest version has received positive feedback from our Patient Participation Group (PPG)
- However, it is not yet ready for full rollout
We will continue to refine the system and keep patients updated before any wider introduction.
Patient Artwork Competition
We are looking to brighten our corridors and celebrate creativity within our community. Open to patients of all ages, whether you love bold colours, gentle watercolours, or quirky sketches, we’d love to see your creativity. Entries close at the end of August, and our winning artworks will be displayed in the corridors of the practice.
- Submit a high-quality digital image of your artwork
- Entries will be reviewed by the practice team
- Winning artwork will be printed and displayed in the practice
Send your entries to tracy.westhead@livgp.nhs.uk
Staying Safe in the Sun
Summer is here and it’s important to protect your skin from sun damage.
- Seek shade, especially between 11am and 3pm
- Wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses
- Use SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply regularly (every two hours if you're outside)
- Avoid sunbeds
Find out more at: Sun Awareness – British Association of Dermatologists