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Thank you, Upchurch, you are amazing!When we got to Swale Foodbank Warehouse, we filled five trolleys with your wonderful generosity (this shows just two of them).
Here are two of the lovely volunteers who sort the food for those families who are struggling.
And now their struggle is lessened by your heartfelt gifts.
May God bless you all as you share your blessings with others.
Ron and I will be collecting again at the bus stop opposite the Church in Horsham Lane on Wednesday the 7th of July between 10:30am and 11:30am.
Thank you ❤️
Gill & Ron Gay
Gill Gay - Foodbank Co-ordinator
This week is national Patient Participation Group (PPG) Awareness Week (31st May - 6th June) and we’d like to say a huge thanks to you and your group for helping us to improve health services.
Your feedback is extremely valuable to tell us what’s working well and what we need to improve and we’re lucky enough to have a huge network of local people to engage regularly with, including PPGs and local area patient groups.
PPG Awareness Week aims to promote the role and importance of engaging with PPGs to patients, the public and health professionals.
In celebration of PPG Awareness Week, we would like to extend our thanks to all PPG members across Kent and Medway for your help and feedback during what has been a difficult year.
During the last 12 months, your support has been invaluable in designing services such as:
• End of life care
• Dementia
• Long Covid support
Thanks again for your commitment to improving health services.
Ray Kemsley via NHS Kent and Medway CCG
Thank you for one million first doses
More than one million first doses of the Covid-19 vaccine have now been given across Kent and Medway.
The milestone is another important step in the fight against coronavirus and a huge achievement for the many teams who are working on the vaccination programme.
You can read more about our vaccination programme in our fortnightly vaccine update
Helping you over the May bank holiday
People across Kent and Medway are being encouraged to call NHS 111 if they need urgent medical help over the May bank holiday.
NHS 111 is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering patients support on a wide range of conditions, covering both illnesses and injuries. Help is at hand from a team of highly trained experts and if needed, an appointment can be booked at an urgent treatment centre (UTC) or even an A&E department.
For more information on help available over the bank holiday visit our website
Your GP team is here for you
Whilst data shows that face-to-face appointments with general practice (GP) teams are almost back at pre-pandemic levels, it also shows that demands are increasing rapidly.
This increase in demand, as well as the huge support practice teams continue to give to the vaccination programme, means that local practices are working harder than ever to support their patients.
You can watch a video featuring local GPs and practice teams speaking about the ways they are making sure you can access services as quickly and simply as possible.
We understand that some people experience difficulties accessing their GP surgery, and the frustrations that causes.
However, we are hearing increasing reports of people taking their frustrations out on practice staff. Abuse of any kind is not acceptable. We would ask everyone to be respectful and understanding of our NHS staff who continue to work in difficult circumstances.
Please check your surgery website for the best way to contact your local practice or visit our website for more general information on accessing GP services.
Right person, right care, first time
Over the past 12 months, nearly half of all GP practice appointments have been with the team of trained professionals working alongside GPs in surgeries.
This is part of the work taking place to make sure that you get the right care, with the right person, as quickly as possible.
For an overview of these roles, and to find out more about some of the team you might come into contact with visit our website, or see your surgery website.
NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group
Upchurch Afternoon Tea - August 21st
Covid-19 all but closed the Village Hall for use since April 2020. On the 17th May this year all of us began Step 3 of the Roadmap and by June 21st we can all start to begin leading normal lives. In consequence, the Village Hall is re-opening up to its regular users and other hirers as the Roadmap allows.
During the prolonged closure, a lot has been achieved by the Village Hall with Phase One [“The Refurbishment Project”] completed. In the lead up to Covid-19, many residents had been supporting fundraising and the Village Hall was applying for grants to pay for the works.
By April 2020 sufficient funds had been raised or pledged to enable all phases of the project to be completed and a courageous decision was made to commission work for all phases which meant that the hall would be closed for use until October 2020 at least. As it turned out the Covid-19 lockdown became a reason why the hall had to be closed during this time and the second lockdown also kept the hall closed despite it being ready for use.
As part of the current re-opening of the Village Hall, we would like to take the opportunity to say “thank you” to the residents and organisations of Upchurch for supporting us prior to and during the closure. To which end on the afternoon of Saturday, August 21st we shall be inviting you to accept our afternoon tea [with the Upchurch WI in the kitchen] from 3:00pm - 5:00pm when you will be able to chat and talk to friends without being subjected to speeches or a “programme”.
If any village voluntary organisation would like to set up a stand [free of charge] then they will be welcome. There will be an opportunity for a limited number of trade stands for local businesses.
All stands will need to be booked in advance so please show your early interest by contacting Gerry Lewin 01634 366113 / 07946 996789.
We look forward to the pleasure of your company.
David G Steward - Chairman UVH
Click infographic to enlarge.
STEP 3
Some Coronavirus restrictions are being lifted across England today, as we move to Step 3 of the roadmap.
New assessment service for people with 'Long Covid'
Kent and Medway’s Post-Covid Assessment Service opened on 14th May 2021 to help people suffering from Long Covid, also known as Post-Covid Syndrome.
Symptoms can include fatigue, breathlessness, anxiety and depression, joint or muscle pain, chest pains, not being able to focus or to think straight.
If the effects of a Covid infection last for more than 12 weeks, patients should contact their GP practice, so any alternative diagnosis for the condition can be ruled out and to decide if the Post-Covid Assessment Service would be suitable.
Once referred, the Post-Covid Assessment Service will make contact with the patient and an expert team of professionals will assess their condition and provide support in accessing services to support their recovery.
Visit our website to find out more.
Update on accessing General Practice
The latest Kent and Medway data on appointments with general practice teams shows nearly 460,000 patients were seen face-to-face in March 2021.
That’s very close to the number of face-to-face appointments that were taking place monthly before the pandemic. Combined with many more telephone and online appointments, our 198 practices held over 200,000 more appointments this March compared to February 2020.
As Covid-19 restrictions lift further on Monday (17th May 2021) GP surgeries across the country are being asked to have receptions open to patients whilst following social distancing and covid-secure guidance.
GPs have also played a key role in the vaccination effort, managing the delivery of almost one million of Kent and Medway’s vaccines so far.
This increase in demand, as well as continuing to support vaccinations, means that your local practice will remain very busy.
To help manage this and make sure that you get the right care from the right professional as quickly as possible, triage systems will remain in place. You will be asked to first discuss your conditions with a member of the healthcare team to assess the most appropriate next steps and which of the practice team it would be best to see.
If you are able to use online forms for your initial contact please do, so that phone lines can be kept clearer for those who cannot.
GP practices will continue to offer telephone and video consultations. These can be convenient and flexible ways to receive healthcare for many people but where patients need to be seen by a health professional face-to-face, this will be arranged.
If you have a preference about how to access care you can discuss this with your practice.
People at risk of Type 2 diabetes referred to national programme
The CCG’s diabetes team has been hard at work identifying those at risk of Type 2 diabetes and encouraging them to get help through referring them to the National Diabetes Prevention Programme.
From March 2020 to March 2021, 8,927 people in Kent and Medway were given details of the programme, which helps people make positive lifestyle changes and avoid the disease. Read more on this story on our website.
This week is Type 2 Diabetes Prevention Week (10th May - 16th May) and a wealth of information to stay healthy is available on our website.
Keeping safe after third step in lockdown easing
The Prime Minister has confirmed that the third step of England’s lockdown roadmap can proceed as scheduled on 17th May.
Despite the further easing of restrictions, social distancing will remain in place in social care, medical, retail, hospitality and business settings. People will still need to wear face coverings on transport and in shops - unless they are exempt.
Social distancing with close family and friends will be a matter of personal judgement. But people are asked to remain cautious around close contact, like hugging.
Visit the GOV.UK website for more information on the roadmap out of lockdown.
NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group
Upchurch Brownies and Guides have been meeting on Zoom throughout the pandemic.
Thank you
Tracey Snellings - Tigger
All sections have returned to meeting face to face again at Drakes Lodge Scout Hut on the Recreation Ground, Oak Lane.
Beavers
Ages 6 - 8 years, meet on Mondays between 5:30pm and 6:30pm.
Beavers enjoy outdoor fun activities such as scooter games, parachute games, campfires, marshmallow cooking, craftwork, and so much more!
If your child is interested in joining, call or text Cassie: 07706 187395 or Sarah: 07518 363652 for more information.
Come and take a look
Cubs
Ages 8 - 10½ years, meet on Mondays between 7:00pm and 8:00pm.
If your child is interested in joining, call or text Kim: 07876 457780 for more information.
Come and take a look
Scouts
Ages 10½ - 14½ years, meet on Fridays between 7:30pm and 9:00pm.
So far this term, we have had a campfire with sausages, s'mores and toasted marshmallows, a co-ordinates Easter chocolate hunt, made bread outdoors, taskmaster problem-solving games, online quizzes, a hike, and this is just the start!
If your child is interested in joining, call or text Julia: 07712 043621 for more information.
Come and take a look
Our mission
Scouting actively engages and supports young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.
Come and begin your adventure!
Julia Richardson
Group Scout Leader - Upchurch Scout Croup
Medway Council is encouraging residents to explore the great outdoors this Mental Health Awareness Week (Monday, 10th May to Sunday, 16th May).
The council is supporting the national campaign which aims to encourage open conversations around mental health.
This year’s theme is connecting with nature as it has a number of health benefits.
There are lots of ways residents can enjoy the great outdoors. Medway is home to eight award-winning parks that have been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as some of the best in the United Kingdom and around the world.
Medway also has a number of cycling groups and plenty of routes to explore. Last year, Medway Council also created new cycle lanes, installed new cycle racks and widened 11 miles of well-used public footpaths, thanks to active travel funding from the Department for Transport (DfT).
Release the Pressure
There are a number of support services available for residents who need extra support. If you’re feeling distressed, anxious or down, you can call: 0800 107 0160, 24 hours a day, seven days a week to speak to highly trained support workers who will provide emotional guidance and information.
Residents are also able to contact a mental health text service. Texts are free on all major mobile networks - by texting the word “Medway” to 85258, you will start a conversation with a trained and experienced volunteer who can give support at any time, wherever you are. It’s a place to go if you’re struggling to cope and you need immediate help.
Kooth
Mental health support is also available for children and young people across Medway.
Kooth is an online service that offers mental health and wellbeing support for young people, provided by, XenZone.
Kooth enables Medway’s children and young people aged 11 to 25 to chat to counsellors through their instant messaging service using their online drop-in service or during a scheduled session. Young people can also read and contribute to articles concerned with mental health, join moderated forums and discussions enabling peer support as well as benefit from online journals and goal trackers.
Cllr David Brake, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder covering Public Health, said:
“I am pleased that we are supporting Mental Health Awareness Week, the health and wellbeing of all Medway’s residents is our top priority. It is incredibly important that we all look after our mental health. Although life is beginning to return to normal, the coronavirus pandemic is still affecting all of us and I would encourage residents to access the services available if they need extra support.”
Medway Council’s child health team offer a range of mental health training and support to professionals working with children and young people in Medway. For more information, Email: childhealth@medway.gov.uk
Medway Council
Our car was heavy!
Thank you, and bless you all for coming and sharing your love and care.
You do it so cheerfully too. It is a real pleasure to chat and catch up.
As usual, the Foodbank were amazed at your generosity.
We will come and collect your generous donations again in June, but it will be a week later on Wednesday the 9th, due to the half-term holiday.
Keep well - Gill and Ron ❤️
Gill Gay - Foodbank Co-ordinator
Covid-19 vaccines update
Latest vaccinations progress
Our latest data shows we have 90 per cent of the top nine priority groups vaccinated with at least one dose in Kent and Medway. More than 360,000 people are now protected with both doses of the vaccine.
Bank holiday second doses appointments
Several of our vaccination teams are running clinics this bank holiday weekend. Getting your second dose is really important to maximise your own protection and help protect friends and others. If you have an appointment this weekend, please do make sure you attend. There’ll be more sunny days in the months ahead.
Primary care vaccine team top 50,000 jabs
Dr Sati Lall and the team providing vaccinations for patients of 16 GP practices across Rochester, Strood and Medway South have celebrated giving their 50,000th vaccination this week.
Well done to all the staff and volunteers running the clinics. They even got a mention on the Downing Street press conference this Wednesday.
Read more on KentOnline here Within Medway as a whole, more than 175,000 people are now protected with at least one dose.
You can read more about these stories in our weekly vaccines update
Get possible cancer symptoms checked
A cancer patient who was diagnosed during the first lockdown and has now had her cancer successfully removed says people should get worrying symptoms checked as soon as possible.
Miriam McGuirk, from Romney Marsh, said others "should not hesitate" to see their GP if they notice anything unusual.
During her recent experience, she says she was cared for safely, quickly and with empathy.
She added that she felt safe attending her GP practice and hospitals for tests and treatment throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
Miriam said: “I knew something was amiss, and then the lump felt more prominent and became painful. I realised that I couldn’t leave it.
“I would say to anyone who notices anything - do not hesitate to get it checked out, it is better sooner rather than later. You will be looked after and cared for.”
It is also important that patients continue with any ongoing treatments, such as routine endoscopy, and follow the advice of their clinician and hospital to help keep themselves safe while accessing cancer care.
Find out more on our website
Helping you over the May bank holidays
People across Kent and Medway are being encouraged to call NHS 111 if they need urgent medical help over the May bank holidays.
NHS 111 is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering patients support on a wide range of conditions, covering both illnesses and injuries. Help is at hand from a team of highly trained experts and if needed an appointment can be booked at an urgent treatment centre (UTC) or even an A&E department.
More advice for help available over the bank holidays visit our websiteWorkshop to help young people deal with anxiety
Diversity House, working with Relate, are delivering a workshop for young people struggling with life in post-Covid times.
The 12-hour workshop is divided into six sessions and will help young people:
• Recognise the symptoms of anxiety
• Understand what anxiety is and its relationship to worry and stress
• Explore practical ways of dealing with problems
• Understand the positive and negative thoughts and beliefs that trigger and maintain anxiety
• Explore ways of challenging unhelpful thoughts
• Learn ways to let go of anxiety
• Learn ways to accept the uncertainties of life.
The first session is being held online on 1st May, starting at 2:30pm. You can join using this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdgqs3mlJl
Meeting ID: 897 8135 6634
Passcode: 867580
Read the full bulletin at >> https://bit.ly/3gTbjZY
NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group
Dr Supriya Das & Dr Lakshmi SubbiahThe following was discussed at the last PPG meeting:
Covid-19 vaccination programme
1. If patients received a text/telephone call from their respective Practice for their 1st jab, they will receive a similar notification for their 2nd one.
However, if they have not heard from their Practice by the 11th Monday in their 12 week period, they should contact their Surgery. Some Practices are advising patients to ring 119.
2. In respect of Maidstone Road/Upchurch Practice, the vaccination programme is going extremely well.
As of 13th April 2021, 2494 patients had received their 1st jab, of which 408 had received their 2nd.
However, 54 patients had declined the offer to be vaccinated.
Stay safe
Ray Kemsley
Chair - Surgery Patient Participation Group - Upchurch & Rainham
Looking for something to do?
You Me Us is a project from Ideas Test to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation in Medway and Swale.
With You Me Us, you’ll get to join a group with an artist and other local people to take part in;
• Poetry or Creative Writing
• Storytelling Photography
• Singing and Music
• Drawing, sketching and collage
You won’t need special equipment plus you can take part over the internet, by post, or on the phone.
You just need to be over 18 years old and live in Medway or Swale.
Get in touch by 30th April 2021 if you’d like to join a group. Alternatively, you can request the at-home activity sheets via the channels below. The project runs until mid June 2021.
To find out more check out the website or get in touch with Kasia by Email at kasia@ideastest.co.uk
You can call, text or WhatsApp 07387 842524 and Kasia will contact you.
Don’t forget to join the Facebook group too - You Me Us Medway and Swale
Upchurch Matters
Covid-19 vaccines update
Vaccinations begin for 45-49 year olds
This week the Government announced that the next phase of the vaccination programme is beginning, with people aged 45-49 now eligible for the vaccine. GP services are starting to invite people and appointments at large vaccination centres and pharmacies have seen a surge in bookings.
Second doses ramping up
We are now more than four months into the Covid-19 vaccination programme and the number of people getting the extra protection of a second dose is increasing significantly. Over 213,000 people have now had two doses, including 64% of frontline health staff.
Booking service reopens for health staff
From 19th April the national booking service will reopen for frontline health and social care staff to book appointments. You will be able to tick a box to confirm you are eligible and will then need to bring ID to your appointment. Full details will be on the national booking service from next week.
You can read more about these stories in our weekly vaccines update
New maternal mental health service trial
‘Thrive - Psychological Support for Birth Trauma and Loss’ is running throughout 2021 in east Kent, as a partnership between the Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust and East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust.
Thrive has been built and shaped with input from women who have lived through birth trauma and birth loss themselves. One of them is Charlotte, who suffered Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after the birth of her first child in 2018.
You can find out more about her experience, and how the Thrive service is already helping local women like her on our website
Online mental health and wellbeing support
Kooth, an online mental health and wellbeing service for young people, is now available to all 10 to 25-year-olds across Kent and Medway.
Anyone aged 10 to 25 (up to 26th birthday) can log on to www.kooth.com and begin accessing free counselling, advice and wellbeing support.
Kooth provides a safe, secure means of accessing help via the internet including:
• Out-of-hours availability with counsellors available from 12 noon to 10:00pm on weekdays and 6:00pm to 10:00pm at weekends, every day of the year on a drop-in basis
• Online counselling from a professional team of qualified counsellors
• Discussion boards, which are all pre-moderated, allowing young people to access peer-to-peer support
• An online magazine full of moderated articles
No referral is required. Young people can register at www.kooth.com Transforming acute adult mental health services
Across Kent and Medway commissioners and providers are working together to transform acute mental health services for adults, so that the right support is available for those who need it.
If you, a carer or family member or loved one has needed to seek support, or help for a severe acute mental health problem, we would really like to hear about your/their experience, and what you would like from future mental health services in Kent and Medway.
We’d be grateful if you would complete this complete this survey to let us know your thoughts. Please complete it by 7th May 2021.
If you have any questions or need any further information, please contact kmpt.engagement@nhs.net
You can find out more about our current engagement activities on our website
Help develop NHS Talking Therapies
Engaging Kent CIC in partnership with NHS Kent and Medway CCG is holding two engagement events to hear people's views about the development of IAPT (NHS Talking Therapies) for Kent and Medway from 2022.
The two events will be held on Zoom on Thursday 29th April 2021 starting at 10:00am and 1:00pm. Both events will have the same content and last for one hour and forty-five minutes.
You can register your interest by completing a Google form https://forms.gle/79Q64gqEea1fsrLp7
Registration will close at midnight Monday 26th April 2021.
Meeting details will be sent on Tuesday 27th April 2021.
If you have any questions about the events or are unable to use this form, please email the Kent and Medway CCG Adult Mental Health Team using KMCCG.mentalhealth@nhs.net
Read the full bulletin at >> https://bit.ly/3mVXx9X
NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group
Click infographic to enlarge.
Jenny Giles - Upchurch River Valley Golf Course
Telephone: 01634 360626
