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The Clinical Pharmacist works as part of the multidisciplinary team to improve patient outcomes, optimise medicines use, support long‑term condition management, and reduce GP workload. The post-holder provides expert clinical advice, conducts medication reviews, supports prescribing safety, and contributes to high‑quality, patient‑centred care across the practice.

Allergy Awareness Week 2026 - 20-26 April

Allergy Awareness Week 2026 is an opportunity to start that conversation, helping more people recognise the signs of allergy, access support sooner, and build a future where allergy is better understood and better managed.

I Wish I Knew… Diagnosis Matters

Allergy affects millions of people across the UK. Despite this, many still struggle to recognise the symptoms or access the support they need. As a result, many people live with allergy symptoms for years without understanding what is causing them or how to manage them safely.

Allergy Awareness Week 2026 continues their “I Wish I Knew” campaign, shining a light on a simple but powerful message: diagnosis matters. Recognising that symptoms may be linked to allergy and seeking a diagnosis is the first step to accessing the right care and taking control.

Throughout Allergy Awareness Week they will be highlighting:

  • Signs and symptoms of allergic disease

  • The importance of seeking the right diagnosis

  • Real experiences of people living with allergy

  • The support available through their Self-Help Hub

The week also marks an important milestone for the allergy community. During the campaign, the UK’s first National Allergy Strategy will be launched at a parliamentary reception hosted by Allergy UK, setting out a long-term vision for improving allergy care and support across the UK. A key part of this work is around increasing awareness, inclusion and quality of life for those affected by allergy.

Living safely with allergy depends not only on healthcare services, but also on a greater awareness and understanding across society.

 

Facts about allergies:

  • Over 30% of adults report adverse reactions to foods, but only a proportion have a confirmed allergy (Food standards agency 2024)

  • Around 25% of UK children have eczema; these children are more than twice as likely to develop asthma and hay fever, and almost five times more likely to develop food allergy (Chiesa Fuxench et al. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2024)

  • Fewer than 10% of children with food allergy are seen in a specialist allergy clinic (Turner et al. Lancet Public Health. 2024)

Why does diagnosis matter?

Discover why recognising the signs of allergy and getting the right diagnosis sooner can make all the difference. Learn more about the challenges people face, the impact of delayed diagnosis and why this campaign matters.

 

Visit the Self-Help Hub

Through the Allergy UK Self-Help Hub, people can access clear information about allergy symptoms, management and everyday living with an allergic disease. For many, this support is the first step in recognising that what they are experiencing may be an allergy and understanding what to do next.

 

The National Allergy Strategy

Through the National Allergy Strategy Group (NASG), Allergy UK has worked alongside key partners to develop a comprehensive blueprint for improving allergy prevention, diagnosis, treatment and support across the UK.

Adult Weight Management via Slimming World

Fitter Futures Warwickshire, delivered by Everyone Health, is actively offering Adult Weight Management support to eligible patients via Slimming World. Eligible patients will receive FREE support for 12 weeks, via motivating weekly group sessions.

Eligibility criteria:

  • Aged 18+ with a BMI between 30 and 49.9 (or 27.5 for patients with a South Asian, Chinese, Other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean family background)

  • Living in Warwickshire or registered with a Warwickshire GP

PLUS

  • Individuals who apply to any of the below:

    • Have a high risk health condition (e.g.: cancer, cardiac and pulmonary conditions)

    • Registered with a severe mental illness 

    • Have a learning disability

    • Pregnant, postnatal or suffered pregnancy loss in the last 6 months

    • Receive Universal Credit 

    • Homeless

    • A care leaver 

    • A migrant 

    • In the justice system 

    • Be a victim of modern slavery 

    • Be from the Gypsy, Roma or Traveller Communities

    • Or live in one of the valid postcodes - available to check on their website 

How can patients refer themselves?

Patients who meet the eligibility criteria can refer onto the programme by:

Walk in blood tests now available at Ellen Badger Medical Unit, Shiptson-on-Stour

a new walk-in blood testing service is now available at the Ellen Badger Medical Unit in Shipston-on-Stour, making it easier and more convenient for patients to access routine blood tests.

The new service is designed to make essential testing more accessible for our community.

The service is available Monday to Friday 08:00am to 2:00pm - no appointment needed, just walk in!

Patients just to remember to bring a valid blood test request form from their GP or healthcare provider.

The importance of testing your smoke alarms!

The Warwickshire Fire and Rescue service are encouraging everyone to make fire safety a priority by ensuring they have enough smoke alarms in the home and that they work.

It only takes a few seconds and can saves lives.

As part of the Fire Kills campaign, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service (WFRS) is asking people to test their smoke alarms regularly and make testing them part of their household routine. 

Smoke alarms can give someone the few extra seconds they need to escape in a fire. While most homes now have alarms fitted, many people are not aware that the average alarm has a lifespan of just ten years before it needs replacing.   

WFRS is asking people to make sure that their alarms are up to date and up to the job.   

To keep your alarms in working order:  

  • Make sure there is at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home 

  • Test your smoke alarms by pushing the button every week 

  • Check that your smoke alarms are less than 10 years old  

  • Change the batteries every year. Never remove them.  

  • Fit smoke alarms in the right place - on landings and hallways and near bedrooms. Also consider fitting them in rooms which have electrical appliances – e.g. a heater or charger – or other fire risks  

  • Take a moment to check on your loved ones who may need help to ensure they’re fully protected.  

It is also important to ensure everyone in your household is aware of escape routes and what to do in the event of an emergency. It is vital that escape routes such as hallways and landings are kept clear of bags and shoes, and visitors know the designated escape route in the event of an emergency. 

Moreno Francioso, Fire Prevention & Arson Manager at Warwickshire & Rescue Service, said

The fire service fit smoke alarms for some of our most vulnerable residents through Safe and Well checks. If you or someone you know could benefit from a Safe and Well visit do get in touch – they’re free of charge and will make sure that preventable measures are put in place to reduce the chances of a fatal fire.

Anyone can apply for a free Safe and Well visit from WFRS. During the visit WFRS will provide fire safety advice, check that smoke alarms are working and replace/install new ones if needed. Residents with hearing loss who live on their own and who would not be able to hear an alarm sounding without hearing aids can be provided with a free specialist smoke alarm. 

To book a Safe and Well visit, go to: https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/fire-safety-home/apply-safe-well-visit

In the event of fire, having working smoke alarms gives you time to get out, stay out and call 999. 

For more advice on fitting or maintaining smoke alarms in your home, visit: https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/smokealarms

More home fire safety tips can be found at https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/fire-safety-home.

April is Stress Awareness Month

Stress Awareness Month returns this April and Warwickshire County Council is encouraging residents and workplaces to move from awareness to action by focusing on small, everyday changes that can improve people’s wellbeing

This year’s national theme is Be the Change. It highlights the growing impact of stress and burnout and urges people to take practical steps to protect their mental health. The month offers an opportunity to pause, reflect and make manageable changes that support long‑term wellbeing. 

Stress Awareness Month has been marked every April since 1992 and is led nationally by the Stress Management Society. The campaign aims to reduce stigma around mental health and help people turn periods of stress into opportunities to build resilience. 

Five ways to wellbeing 

As part of the campaign, Warwickshire County Council is promoting the 5 Ways to Wellbeing – an evidence‑based framework that supports positive mental health and helps people manage stress more effectively:  

  • Connect – building strong relationships with family, friends and colleagues can help protect against stress and improve mood. 

  • Be Active – regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling or gardening, can reduce stress and boost energy levels. 

  • Take Notice – being present and paying attention to the moment can help manage anxious thoughts and improve emotional wellbeing. 

  • Keep Learning – learning new skills or rediscovering old interests can build confidence and give a sense of purpose. 

  • Give – small acts of kindness or volunteering can increase wellbeing and strengthen connections within communities.  

To take positive and committed action the council is also raising awareness of the Stress Awareness Month’s  2026 30‑day challenge, choosing one small action each day that supports their physical, mental or emotional wellbeing throughout the month. 

Wellbeing for Warwickshire  

Wellbeing for Warwickshire offers easy, confidential access to mental health support through online support, community drop‑in hubs, and one‑to‑one guidance, all designed to help if you're feeling stressed, anxious, isolated, or overwhelmed. The service also provides free workshops, wellbeing tools, and digital resources to help you understand your mental health, build resilience, and stay connected while navigating the challenges of student life.   

To find out more please visit www.wellbeingforwarwickshire.org.uk  

To find out about more services and how to access support in Warwickshire visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/wellness or go to www.warwickshire.gov.uk/mentalhealth   

More information about the Stress Management Society campaign is online at www.stress.org.uk/stress-awareness-month-2026/ 

Cervical screening results coming to you via the NHS App

From 24 March, cervical screening results (including those needing further checks) will be sent directly to you through the NHS App 📱

This means:

✔️ Faster access to your results  

✔️ Secure and confidential updates  

✔️ Less waiting for letters in the post  

If you don’t open your NHS App message, a letter will still be sent as a backup - so you won’t miss important information.

👉 Download the NHS App today and turn on notifications to stay informed about your health:

www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/

👉 AND DON'T FORGET TO SWITCH NOTIFICATIONS ON when using the App

Specialist counselling and art therapy sessions on offer by Safeline

There are specialist counselling and art therapy services offered by Safeline for survivors of sexual abuse across Warwickshire

Since 1994, Safeline has been providing specialist support for:

  • Survivors of sexual abuse

  • Affected others, including parents, carers, and family members

They accept referrals for children and young people aged 5 years and upwards, as well as adults. Sessions are available face-to-face and via telephone, ensuring accessible support across the county.

Their current waiting list for adults is approximately 8 weeks.  

 

Individuals are welcome to self-refer directly to the service via their website: Home - Safeline.

All of their services are fully funded and completely free of charge.

Vinyasa Yoga in Southam on Wednesdays and Saturdays

Mark won our competition in June 2023 for a membership at Everest Fit in Southam. Now he is a qualified yoga teacher and Reiki practitioner with his own business, Asana & Aura.

Mark is running classes at The Community Hub, Galanos House - Wednesday’s at 6pm and at Southam Community Centre on Saturday’s at 8am.

Mark says:

“I offer breath lead vinyasa yoga classes in Southam which is excellent for fitness both physical and mental. I am at Galanos House on a Wednesday evening and Southam Community Centre on Saturday morning.”

Classes last for 1 hour and cost £10. For more information, please visit www.asanaandaura.com or call 07349121116

Update regarding the recent meningococcal disease outbreak

The UK Health Security Agency is continuing to investigate an outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent.

As of 5pm on 17 March, 9 laboratory cases are confirmed and 11 notifications remain under investigation, bringing the total to 20. Six of the confirmed cases are confirmed to be group B meningococcal disease.

Click on the link below for more information from the gov.uk website: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease-confirmed-in-kent

The Men B vaccine helps protect children against bacterial infections caused by meningococcal group B bacteria (Men B).

Men B was added to the schedule in 2015 as part of the primary immunisation programme for babies. 

Unless teenagers or adults have been vaccinated privately, then they will not have received this vaccine previously. 

Parents can find out if their children are up to date via the NHS app. 

The vaccine is available privately locally if you wished to access: 

Local Private MenB Vaccine Providers (Warwickshire/Midlands)

Start Your Career As a Phlebotomist at St Wulfstan Surgery

If you would like to join an incredible, award winning team as a Phlebotomist, please feel free to apply by clicking the button below.

Start your career in healthcare as a phlebotomist at an award-wining GP surgery. We are seeking to recruit a new phlebotomist. Full training can be given, so no experience is required.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and proactive individual to join our busy team. This is an exciting time for the practice and the successful candidate will have a fantastic opportunity to use their skills to further develop this role whilst providing a high standard of care for our patients.

Salary will be dependent on experience.

About us

At St Wulfstan Surgery, we are committed to providing exceptional healthcare services to our patients. We are rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission

In 2024, and again in 2025, we were delighted to be named by the Health Service Journal as ‘Primary and Community Provider of the Year’. This is a prestigious national award and reflects the quality of work done by the whole practice team.

Our mission is to deliver compassionate, patient-centred care with a focus on excellence. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients.

Southam is a lovely market town in South Warwickshire, only 10 minutes drive from Leamington Spa and 20 minutes from Coventry and Banbury.

We serve a wonderful community and treasure the great working relationship we have with our patients.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide high-quality care to patients under the supervision of the Nurse Manager

  • Perform phlebotomy, blood pressure and height, weight and diabetic foot checks.

  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records and documentation in accordance with regulatory standards.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

  • Commitment to ongoing professional development and continuous learning.

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.

  • Supportive work environment

  • Comprehensive benefits package, including NHS pension scheme and free car parking

If you are passionate about providing exceptional care to patients, we would love to hear from you.

Don't miss out on this rewarding opportunity to join our team and contribute to the delivery of high-quality healthcare services. This is a part-time role and a fantastic opportunity to build a career in healthcare for the right candidate.

Prostate, Cholesterol, and Diabetes Health Testing for Men & Women

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is promoting Prostate, Cholesterol and Diabetes Health Testing for Men & Women

PSA testing is available for men aged 40+, Diabetes and Cholesterol testing is available for men and women aged 18 and over.

The Graham Fulford Charitable Trust run health testing events that enable men and women to have a number of health tests from a simple blood test, allowing them to, where necessary, seek further advice or action via their GP.

The events will run from 10am until 2pm at each of the locations and residents are able to book at a discounted rate of £14 for each test. (subsidised by Stratford-on-Avon District Council)

  • Saturday 21 March at Venture House, Avenue Farm Industrial Estate, Birmingham Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 0HR

  • Saturday 18 April at Lighthorne Heath Village Hall, Valiant Close, CV33 9UF

  • Saturday 9 May at Graham Adams Centre, St James Road, Southam, CV47 0LY

  • Saturday 30 May at Wellesbourne Village Hall, School Road, CV35 9NH

  • Saturday 20 June at Shipston Scout Hut, New Street, CV36 4EW

  • Saturday 18 July at the Greig Hall, Kinwarton Road, Alcester, B49 6AD

  • Saturday 19 September at Studley Village Hall, High Street, B80 7HJ

  • Saturday 17 October at Stratford Leisure Centre, Bridgeway, CV37 6YX

  • Saturday 7 November at Henley-in-Arden Memorial Hall, Station Road, B95 5JP