Health

Sefton CCGs: NHS is here for you and your family this August bank holiday weekend

by SeftonCVS28/08/2020

Health leaders at NHS South Sefton and NHS Southport and Formby Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are reassuring local people that the NHS is here should they need it this bank holiday, 31 August.

Although GP practices in Sefton will be closed over the bank holiday, there are services and online support available to help people that need urgent treatment.

Some community pharmacies in the area may be open on Bank Holiday Monday – you can check your local pharmacies opening times on their website.

NHS 111 can be contacted 24 hours a day, either online or by phone. You will be assessed, given advice, and directed straightaway to the local service that can best meet your needs, including Sefton’s local GP out of hours team.

Dr Craig Gillespie, chair of NHS South Sefton CCG, said: “A lot of common illness and minor injuries can be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines. Some pharmacies in the area will be open and are a great source of health care advice and over-the-counter medicines.

“For medical advice, you can call your local walk-in centre to book an appointment.”

Litherland Walk-in Centre is operating from 8am until 8pm and you can book an appointment by calling them directly on 0151 475 4667
West Lancashire Walk-in Centre is operating from 8am until 8pm and you can book an appointment by calling them directly on 01695 402180
Skelmersdale Walk-in Centre is operating from 8am until 8pm and you can book an appointment by calling them directly on 01695 402180.”

If you need a GP or other healthcare professional appointment on bank holiday Monday this can be booked in advance by calling your GP practice directly. Appointments will be available through the 7 Day GP Service in Southport and Formby which is open 9am -12pm and the GP Extra service in south Sefton which is open 10am – 1pm.

Dr Rob Caudwell, chair of NHS Southport and Formby CCG said: “It’s important to remember that the NHS is here for you and your family this bank holiday weekend and there is support available.

“If you are not sure what to do and need medical advice fast, call NHS 111 or go to NHS 111 online. Please call 999 or go to A&E if you are in a life-threatening situation or emergency, such as choking, chest pain, severe difficulty breathing, blacking out or blood loss.

“If you have any COVD-19 symptoms – such as high temperature, a new, continuous cough or loss of taste or smell – use the dedicated NHS 111 COVID-19 service online at www.111.nhs.uk/COVID-19 for advice.”

More information:

For more information about the GP Extra service in South Sefton visit: https://www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk/your-health-and-services/gp-extra/

For more information about the 7 Day GP Service in Southport and Formby visit: https://www.southportandformbyccg.nhs.uk/your-health-and-services/7-day-gp-service/

To find your local health services and to check pharmacy opening times in South Sefton, visit: https://www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk/your-health-and-services/find-nhs-services/

To find your local health services and to check pharmacy opening times in Southport and Formby, visit: https://www.southportandformbyccg.nhs.uk/your-health-and-services/find-nhs-services/

For more information about Litherland Walk-in Centre, visit: https://www.nwbh.nhs.uk/walk-in-centres

For more information about the West Lancashire Walk-in Centre visit: https://westlancscommunityhealth.nhs.uk/our-services/west-lancashire-urgent-treatment-centre/

For more information about the Skelmersdale Walk-in Centre visit: https://westlancscommunityhealth.nhs.uk/our-services/skelmersdale-walk-centre/

Information about access to food during the summer holidays (Summer 2020)

by SeftonCVS30/07/202003/08/2020

As with previous years, Sefton CVS are working in partnership with Sefton Council to coordinate a network of community venues and local organisations to offer children, young people and families access to food during the school holidays – especially those who would normally be in receipt of free school meals during term time.

The Access To Food initiative is available to all regardless of income throughout the school holidays, and we hope this offer will complement the service being provided by Sefton Council’s Family Wellbeing Centres in the South, Central and North localities.

All voluntary sector locations will be offering packed lunches to children and young people during the times provided and social distancing measures must be maintained at all times.

Please click here to download the information leaflet (PDF format). Alternatively, please see below for the image of the information flyer

Coronavirus Mobile Testing at Bootle Town Hall (21st-23rd July)

by SeftonCVS21/07/2020

From today (Tuesday 21 July), the coronavirus mobile testing unit will be at Bootle Town Hall for three consecutive days.

Sefton Council, NHS Southport and Formby CCG and NHS South Sefton CCG are supporting the Mobile Test Sites, which provide clinical diagnosis tests to tell people if they currently have the Covid-19 virus.

Tests are available for anyone but they need to have made an appointment first at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119. Essential workers still need to book through www.gov.uk/apply-coronavirus-test-essential-workers.

Key NHS staff can attend regional testing sites at Liverpool John Lennon Airport as well as Haydock and Manchester Airport without the need for an appointment.

Testing is vital to the ongoing work to overcome COVID-19 and enables key workers who test negative to return to that work. Approaching 6,000 people have already been tested so far at Sefton’s Mobile Test Sites, which have been supported by Sefton Council, NHS Southport and Formby CCG and NHS South Sefton CCG.

Following news of an increase in confirmed cases of young people with coronavirus in south Liverpool, Sefton Council’s Interim Director of Public Health has joined Liverpool health bosses in reminding people in that age group that they are susceptible to infection by COVID-19.

Over the past fortnight, around half of the 30 cases confirmed in the south Liverpool area have been people aged 15-24. This has led health official in the city to issue a reminder that the illness can infect anyone, regardless of age.

Young people reminded coronavirus symptoms may be mild but you’re still infectious to friends & loved ones.

Through the Government’s NHS Test and Trace service, anyone who tests positive for coronavirus will be contacted and will need to share information about their recent interactions. It is important to follow the NHS guidance to stop the spread of coronavirus in Sefton.

Sefton Sexual Health – Scoping Exercise for VCF sector organisations (deadline Mon 3rd August)

by SeftonCVS20/07/2020

Sefton Sexual Health is open and is still operating and continuing to offer an appointment only service.

The service will continue using the telephone triage system in order to book appointments, which are currently being offered in our Southport and Bootle clinics only. This number is 01695 656550. Please call this number for all sexual health enquiries. In addition, there is useful Self-Help information on our website www.seftonsexualhealth.co.uk

Young people reminded coronavirus symptoms may be mild but you’re still infectious to friends & loved ones.

by SeftonCVS15/07/2020

Following news of an increase in confirmed cases of young people with coronavirus in south Liverpool, Sefton Council’s Interim Director of Public Health has joined Liverpool health bosses in reminding people in that age group that they are susceptible to infection by COVID-19.

Over the past fortnight, around half of the 30 cases confirmed in the south Liverpool area have been people aged 15-24. This has led health official in the city to issue a reminder that the illness can infect anyone, regardless of age.

LCR Listens – Liverpool City Region ‘Bring Back Better’ Recovery Survey

by SeftonCVS07/07/2020

Liverpool City Region is developing an economic recovery plan which sets out how we will respond to the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic.

We are keen to get your feedback on our recovery plan, which we have been developing to help the City Region ‘Build Back Better’.

The plan is based around 6 themes:

Opportunities to Build Back Better
Business Ecosystems
People
Place
Infrastructure
Green Recovery

Please be assured that any information you provide will be confidential and used for research purposes only. We’ll process your data, in line with our Fair Processing notice, with any personal data such as age and ethnic origin used to assess whether we are receiving feedback from a representative cross-section of society. Please read the ‘Fair Processing Notice’ for more detailed information on how we will process your data.

Click here to have your say in the LCR Listens Recovery Survey

Hot weather warning issued to people shielding and more vulnerable groups

by SeftonCVS25/06/2020

People shielding indoors from COVID-19, older people, those with underlying health conditions and very young children are all more vulnerable from the higher temperatures.

Emer O’Connell, Consultant in Public Health at Public Health England, said:

Most of us look forward to the warmer weather, but some people may find it more difficult to cope with these higher temperatures. Older people, those with underlying health conditions and very young children are more at risk in hot weather.

This summer, many of us are spending more time at home due to COVID-19, especially those shielding, as they are at high risk of developing severe infection. A lot of homes can overheat, so it’s important we continue to check up on older people and those with underlying health conditions, particularly if they’re living alone and may be socially isolated.

You will need to do things differently this year, for example, keeping in touch by phone. If you need to provide direct care to someone at risk from hot weather, follow government guidance on how to do this safely. The most important advice is to ensure they stay hydrated, keep cool and know how to keep their homes cool.

Jo Churchill, Health Minister, said:

With plenty of sunshine and soaring temperatures expected over the coming days, many of us across the UK will be outside making the most of the fantastic weather while following the social distancing rules.

It’s important, however, to make sure you stay safe in the sun: apply sunscreen regularly, stay hydrated and protect your head from the sun. Look out for those who are vulnerable in the heat and provide support where needed, continuing to follow social distancing guidance.

To enjoy the sun while staying safe:

drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol. Everyone is at risk of dehydration in hot temperatures, but babies, children and older people are particularly vulnerable
stay cool indoors: open windows when the air feels cooler outside than inside; shade or cover windows exposed to direct sunlight; move to a cooler part of the house, especially for sleeping
slow down when it’s hot: exertion heats up our bodies so plan any strenuous activities (such as exercise and gardening) outside the hottest time of the day, typically 11am to 3pm
cool your skin with water. You could use a cool wet sponge or flannel, cool water spray, cold packs around the neck and armpits, or a cool, wet sheet
stay connected and listen to the weather forecast. Knowing the forecast can help you plan ahead and adapt what you’re doing
dress appropriately for the weather. Protect yourself against the sun’s radiation and keep yourself cool by wearing thin cotton clothes
eat smaller meals, more often. Cold salads and fruit are the perfect summer foods

For more information on the common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, visit NHS.UK.

Read our COVID-19 and summer temperatures blog for more advice on how to stay well in hot weather.

RNIB: Advice for blind and partially sighted people during coronavirus (COVID-19)

by SeftonCVS14/05/2020

Issued on behalf of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)

We appreciate that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic may be causing you many additional challenges so we’ve brought together some key contact numbers and advice on how to get support in your local community below. You’ll also find answers to the questions we’re being asked the most, but please don’t hesitate to call if you need help.

One Knowsley Urgent Recruitment – Social Prescribing Link Workers (closing Thursday16th April)

by SeftonCVS08/04/2020

In conjunction with Primary Care Network Kirkby, One Knowsley are looking to recruit two Social Prescribing Link Workers.

Social prescribing empowers people to take control of their health and wellbeing through referral to non-medical ‘link workers’ who give time, focus on ‘what matters to me’ and take a holistic approach, connecting people to community groups and statutory services for practical and emotional support.

Merseyside Safeguarding Adults Board (MSAB) Latest Newsletter now available

by SeftonCVS02/03/2020

Click here to view the latest newsletter from Merseyside Safeguarding Adults Board (MSAB)

Topics in the latest newsletter include:
National Safeguarding Week activities; Hoarders Helping Hoarders Group; Update on our Safeguarding Voices Initiative; MSAB Peer Review; Spotlight on Local Excellence and Safeguarding Resources

To receive these newsletters directly, please click here to sign up

Sefton Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) Upcoming Training Opportunities (March-June 2020)

by SeftonCVS29/01/202005/02/2020

Please see below for training and development opportunities from Sefton Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB). To book a place on Sefton LSCB Training Courses visit our website. www.seftonlscb.org.uk

Sefton residents invited to health commissioners’ meetings

by SeftonCVS23/01/2020

Members of the public interested in local health issues are invited to the forthcoming governing body meetings of their local health commissioners.

NHS Southport and Formby Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS South Sefton CCG hold their bi-monthly governing body meetings in public, so that people can listen to the discussions and the decision making processes of the doctors, nurses and other health professionals that make up these forums.

Mencap Liverpool & Sefton – Round The World Challenge launch event (THIS THURSDAY 23rd January 2020 in Crosby)

by SeftonCVS20/01/202023/01/2020

In partnership with Sport England and The National Lottery, Mencap have launched The Round the World Challenge. The Round the World Challenge aims to support people with a learning disability to get out and get active in a way that is flexible, fun and empowering.

Mencap Liverpool & Sefton have secured funding from national Mencap to deliver the Round the World Challenge in Sefton. This exciting initiative involves turning hours of physical activity into a round the world adventure, and participants can pick which route to take and will receive postcards and rewards along the way – such as rock climbing, water sports and horse riding.

The Round The World Challenge will give participants the opportunity to try a variety of different sports they may have never tried before, and provide a further opportunity to get involved in a wide range of community-based activities.

Mencap Liverpool & Sefton Round the World Challenge Launch Event
Thursday 23rd January 2020, 1pm-3pm
Mencap Cottage House, Mariners Road, Liverpool, Merseyside, L23 6SX (map)

Come along and try out new activities including Zumba, Boxing and Table Tennis!

Please callin for mroe information and how to sign up, or alternatively please contact Mencap Liverpool & Sefton on 0151 707 8582 or alternatively please email contact@mencapliverpool.org.uk

How does the Round the World Challenge work?

The Round the World Challenge is all about turning hours of fun sports and physical activities into a round the world adventure. You can take part in a variety of activities including Zumba, boccia, walking rugby and more traditional sports like football, cycling and tennis.

Then you register the time spent on any type of exercise each week and this is then used to calculate the distance travelled around the world.

You can choose from three different routes:

UK route: 20 hours of activity
Europe route: 40 hours of activity
World route: 100 hours of activity

You’ll receive a postcard from a different location as the number of hours of activity you do takes you further around the world.

Click here for more information about Mencap’s Round the World Challenge

Funding bids now live for Sefton Borough of Culture projects

by SeftonCVS20/12/2019

Community groups and local organisations can now apply for support to help run projects as part of
Sefton’s Borough of Culture year.

The Borough of Culture initiative is part of the Metro Mayor’s Culture programme which saw
Liverpool City Region become the first in the country to commit to spending the equivalent of 1% of
its annual £30 million devolution funding from government to stimulate cultural and creative
activities.

Groups can now express interest in securing support from Sefton Council with their proposals. This
may include bidding for money to help them organize events throughout 2020 with two different tiers
of funding available – up to £5K and £5k-£15K.

It may also include support with such areas as event management, communications and marketing, or connections with other partner organisations.

Forms are available to download at www.sefton.gov.uk/sefton2020 and once completed, will be
reviewed and if support is allocated, groups will be notified within 4 weeks for non-financial support
and for support up to £5K and 10 weeks for £5K-£15K applications.

The Borough of Culture (BoC) title is awarded by the Liverpool City Region’s Combined Authority to
one of its six local authorities (Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral) on a
rotating, annual basis.

2019 was Wirral’s year while 2020 will be dedicated to Sefton with a raft of new, existing and
community led events planned for the year.

The focus of Sefton’s year will be on stories, looking at two key elements, local history and the
environment.

Cllr Trish Hardy, Cabinet Member Communities and Housing, and lead sponsor for the Borough of
Culture Year, is asking community groups to really consider applying for funding.

She said: “While we are looking at organising some spectacular larger scale events as part of our
Borough of Culture Year, the foundation of our year will be the smaller events organised by our
valued communities.

“This is where this support and the funding pot comes in really helpful as it can enable more
localised community groups and organisations to give them a boost in arranging something to
celebrate Borough of Culture.

“2020 and the Borough of Culture will be all about engaging with our communities and making sure
as many people as possible get involved and embrace all cultural elements our wonderful borough has to offer.

“If you are group and are thinking of running something during 2020, please get in touch, download
the form and tell us your plans! This way we can make sure our year of events appeals to everyone
right across Sefton.”

For more information and to download the forms, visit sefton.gov.uk/sefton2020 or email
BOC2020@sefton.gov.uk.

Upcoming Mindfulness Merseyside courses in Southport & Crosby (starting January 2020)

by SeftonCVS13/12/2019

Find mindfulness courses in the Sefton area and book a place now on the next course near you.

Find out more about the courses or read what people are saying.

Mindfulness course in Southport
Starts Monday 6th January, 7.00pm – 8.00pm
Community Hall, 5 Lord Street West, Southport PR8 2BH

£54.00 / £42.00 | DETAILS & BOOKING

Eight-week MBSR course in Crosby
Starts Thursday 16th January, 6.30pm – 8.30pm
Lakeside Adventure Centre, Cambridge Road, Crosby L22 1RR

£249 / £195 | DETAILS & BOOKING

More information

If you want to find out more without committing to a course, check out our classes. Feel free to ask if you have any questions, we’re here to help.

For more information please visit http://mindfulnessmerseyside.co.uk/ or call Paul on 07867 974716

Mindfulness Merseyside is a trading name of Mind Body Matters CIC, a Community Interest Company (No 10163890)

Help support Sefton’s Foodbanks this Christmas

by SeftonCVS28/11/2019

Local people in Sefton are encouraged to support Sefton’s Food banks this festive period and help to back the final theme for the Year of Friendship, ‘Giving’.

This year, Sefton Food banks have launched a Reverse Advent Calendar which encourages more people to give, rather than receive, this Christmas. The calendar gives a suggested donation for each day of the Advent and includes essential items like tinned tomatoes, tinned potatoes, instant mash and tinned fruit as well as toiletries and Christmas items like chocolate, nuts, stuffing and gravy.

Be diabetes aware and know the signs (World Diabetes Day – 14th November 2019)

by SeftonCVS12/11/2019

On World Diabetes Day (14 November 2019), NHS South Sefton and NHS Southport and Formby Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are urging local residents to become familiar with the warning signs of diabetes to try and spot the condition sooner.

Edge Hill University Medical School’s Community Engagement Event – Opportunity for VCF sector student placements (12.30pm-4pm, Tuesday 19th November 2019)

by SeftonCVS04/10/201925/10/2019

Edge Hill University Medical School (EHUMS) has an ethos of social accountability and community engagement, with the aim of showing students that health and social care does not just take place in NHS premises.

EHUMS has been working in partnership with Sefton CVS to provide 2nd year medical students with personal learning about the community context to health and social care. The placement will involve the students engaging with a community project, which would result in recommendations or lasting benefits to the voluntary organisations.

12.30pm-4pm
SING PLUS CENTRE
53 CAMBRIDGE ROAD
SEAFORTH
MERSEYSIDE
L21 1EZ

Click here to download the information poster

Please come along to find out more about how your organisation can become involved with our medical school.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR PLACE and for more information please email ehumscommunityengagement@edgehill.ac.uk

The deadline to register is Friday 8th November.

“Going Forward Without Fear” Sefton LSCB Learning Event – Serious Case Reviews (Tuesday 12th November)

by SeftonCVS27/08/201930/09/2019

Due to the overwhelming success of the Learning Event (SCRs) held in June, Sefton LSCB will be hosting a further repeat event for the multi-agency workforce. The event is FREE to attend and we have again secured actors from AFTA Thought (Training Consultancy) to deliver the learning from Sefton Serious Case Reviews using the ‘voice of the child’.

All staff/volunteers working with children, young people and their families including: all practitioners, managers and senior leaders connected to the children’s workforce in Sefton.

Click here to download the event information, and to book your place please click here or follow the link in the information poster.

Tips to Look After Yourself this Bank Holiday

by SeftonCVS20/08/2019

Many of us may be making plans for the bank holiday on Monday 26 August. If you are unfortunate enough to have an illness or injury over the long weekend, this information could help you get back on your feet in no time.

NHS Southport and Formby Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS South Sefton CCG suggest you could be getting better sooner if you see your local pharmacist or contact NHS 111 (by phone or online.)

Some local pharmacies are open on bank holiday Monday and may be able to give you the advice and medication you need, without having to wait to see your GP. You can find your local pharmacy bank holiday opening times on the CCGs’ websites.

If you do need to see a doctor or nurse, there are now GP appointments at weekends and weekday evenings across Sefton. You can either book an appointment via your GP practice, or NHS 111 can book an appointment with your nearest service – so long as you are registered with a GP practice in Sefton.

The NHS 111 freephone number is available any time day or night. Trained call handlers can give you the advice you need, or direct you to the service best suited for your need.

Susanne Lynch, head of medicines management at the CCGs in Sefton, said: “At any time of year, it’s a good idea to have a well-stocked medicine cabinet to treat common illnesses or minor injuries. Paracetamol, bandages, plasters, painkillers, indigestion remedies and a thermometer would help most healthy adults deal with most minor illnesses and ailments.

She added: “If you need any further advice, I would recommend calling NHS 111, going to NHS 111 online or visiting your local pharmacy. These services are excellent options for dealing with any non-urgent medical concerns.”

You can find the pharmacy opening times for each CCG area here:

South Sefton: https://www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk/your-health-and-services/may-and-august-bank-holiday-opening-times-for-pharmacies/

Southport and Formby: https://www.southportandformbyccg.nhs.uk/your-health-and-services/may-and-august-bank-holiday-opening-times-for-pharmacies/

Information about Sefton’s Access To Food initiative over the Summer Holidays 2019

by SeftonCVS01/08/2019

This summer, Sefton Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) are coordinating a network of community venues and local organisations to offer children, young people and families access to food during the school holidays—especially those who would normally be in receipt of free school meals during term time.

Click here for details of the VCF sector provision during Summer 2019 (PDF)

This service is open access and is available to all regardless of income throughout the school holidays, and we hope this will compliment the service being provided by Sefton Council from the Family Wellbeing Centres across the borough.

Click here to donate online and support this year’s Access To Food initiative

Sefton 4 Good are hoping to raise valuable funds to support the access to food initiative, and are appealing to the general public, local businesses and organisations to donate what they can.

All funds raised will go to support local not-for-profit voluntary, community and faith (VCF) sector organisations who are providing this service during the summer holidays.

Your Chance to Have a ‘Big Chat’ with Local Health Commissioners

by SeftonCVS25/07/2019

NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG are inviting local people to attend their combined ‘Big Chat’ and annual review events in September.

The events are an opportunity for residents to find out about the work that their local CCG has carried out in the past year. Attendees are also invited to share their experiences of local health services and give their views about the CCGs’ latest and forthcoming programmes and plans for the next 12 months.

Dr Craig Gillespie, local GP and NHS South Sefton CCG chair, said: “These events give people the chance to have a chat with their local health commissioners and share their feedback about our plans. We will also combine these events with our Annual General Meeting (AGM), so people can find out about how well we have performed during the past year.”

Dr Rob Caudwell, local GP and NHS Southport and Formby CCG chair, said: “There will also be a ‘marketplace’ of information stalls promoting local health, care and support services. Some of the services attending the events will include Macmillan, Healthwatch Sefton and a 7-day GP extended access.

“The feedback we receive during these kinds of events is really useful. I encourage anyone that is interested in finding out more about local health services and commissioning, and who is interested in sharing their views on these topics, to attend one of our ‘Big Chat’ events.”

The ‘Big Chat’ events will take place on:

NHS Southport and Formby CCG: Tuesday 10 September, 1pm to 4.30pm at The Bliss Hotel (formerly the Ramada Hotel) adjacent to Floral Hall on the waterfront in Southport, PR9 0DZ.
NHS South Sefton CCG: Thursday 12 September, 1pm to 4.30pm at Bootle Cricket Club, Wadham Road, L20 2DD.

Residents are encouraged to attend the event for their local CCG in order to get the most relevant information.

People are asked to register in advance by emailing southportandformby.ccg@nhs.net for the event on 10th September, or southsefton.ccg@nhs.net for the event on 12th September. You can also register by calling 0151 317 8456.

For more information on the events visit the CCG websites:

https://www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk/get-involved/our-chat-events

https://www.southportandformbyccg.nhs.uk/get-involved/our-chat-events/

Celebrate the NHS with Tea and Cake

by SeftonCVS18/07/201918/07/2019

Health professionals in Sefton came together on Monday 8th July to hold a ‘Big Tea’ and cake bake event to raise money for a local NHS charity.

‘Big Tea’ events are being held across the country raising money for NHS Charities Together on and around the 71^st birthday of the National Health Service. These donations will be distributed to a number of NHS charities throughout the UK to help further support and benefit local patients.

As NHS charities make a huge difference to the lives of patients and their families and the wonderful staff who care for them, members of staff from NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG decided to bake cakes and raise money for The Walton Centre Charity, one of the many NHS charities that will benefit from the ‘Big Tea’ events.

Located in Liverpool, The Walton Centre is a specialist hospital trust dedicated to providing comprehensive neurology, neurosurgery, spinal and pain management services.

Fiona Taylor, chief officer at the CCGs in Sefton, said: “It was great to take a break and celebrate another fantastic year of the NHS. Thank you to everyone at the CCGs who participated in the bake sale by baking or buying some of the delicious treats here today. All the money raised will go to our local Walton Centre Charity, which helps so many people in our area.”

“I would also like to take this time to thank all of our staff, who work tirelessly to support people in our community. Last year was a big birthday for the NHS but it’s still nice to mark the occasion by doing something like this for charity this year. “

The CCGs are now encouraging others to hold their own ‘Big Tea’ celebrations in appreciation of the NHS. You can hold a tea party with friends or organise your own charity bake sale.

Further information, resources and a Plan a Party guide are available at www.nhsbigtea.co.uk

Former Midwife Urges People to Have Their Say about NHS Change

by SeftonCVS26/03/201926/03/2019

Healthcare in Sefton will only work if people get to have their say – urges former midwife, Anne Major.

Anne, from Southport, who also used to be a neonatal nurse, is encouraging others to speak out as part of the national ‘What Would You Do?’ campaign, led by independent health and social care champion Healthwatch Sefton.

The campaign aims to encourage people in Sefton to share their views about how extra money from the Government should be spent on local NHS services.

The Government is investing £20 billion a year in the NHS as part of the NHS Long Term Plan. Local organisations are now being asked to explore how services should change locally to make the NHS work better for people.

Anne, who is also Healthwatch Sefton locality representative for Central Southport, said: “When I have been at listening events at Southport and Formby hospital with Healthwatch Sefton we get fantastic comments and feedback about health services through talking with and listening to people.

“Patients are the experts. Each and every one of them has a story to share – whether that’s good or bad. I would encourage others to take part in the campaign and make sure their voice is heard.”

Anne has had plenty of first-hand experience with health and care services in the borough, having worked as a midwife and neonatal nurse for more than 30 years. She has personal experience of the NHS due to her husband having had a quadruple heart by-pass and is passionate about ensuring that the care of her family and community is the best the NHS can provide.

Maureen Kelly, Chair of Healthwatch Sefton, added: “The NHS only works when the voices of the people who use it are heard. This is a once-in-a-generation chance for local people to help decide where this extra money from Government should be spent in our NHS services in Sefton.

“We want to hear from as many people as possible about what works, what doesn’t and how they think local health services should be improved. No matter how big or small the issue, we want to hear about it. Sharing your experience with us is quick and easy – and could make a big difference.”

People can share their views via this online survey.

Have your say on Sefton health policies review

by SeftonCVS21/03/201921/03/2019

Sefton residents are being asked for views about a number of local health policies, being reviewed to make sure NHS resources are used on the most effective treatments.

NHS South Sefton (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG are working together with Halton, Liverpool, St Helens and Warrington CCGs to review a group of policies for procedures and treatments that are known as Criteria Based Clinical Treatments (CBCT). These are routine procedures that are known to have medical benefit only in very specific situations, or for a small number of people.

Life After Stroke – Help for residents recovering from a stroke who feel isolated

by SeftonCVS21/03/2019

Throughout Sefton’s Year of Friendship, Sefton Council is dedicated to reducing loneliness by making residents aware of the many groups and activities on offer throughout the borough.

The Council would like to highlight the Stroke Association’s work to tackle isolation for Sefton residents who are recovering from a stroke.

Have Your Say on Sefton Health Policies Review

by SeftonCVS01/03/2019

Sefton residents are being asked for views about a number of local health policies, being reviewed to make sure NHS resources are used on the most effective treatments.

NHS South Sefton (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG are working together with Halton, Liverpool, St Helens and Warrington CCGs to review a group of policies for procedures and treatments that are known as Criteria Based Clinical Treatments (CBCT). These are routine procedures that are known to have medical benefit only in very specific situations, or for a small number of people.

This is the third phase of the review, which aims to keep NHS care up to date with the latest national clinical guidelines, methods and technology, whilst also making the best use of NHS resources.

The policies that Sefton residents are being asked to provide views on in this latest phase are:

Continuous glucose monitoring systems
Cough assist devices
Insulin pumps
Secondary care administered peripheral joint injections
Surgery for prostatism or lower urinary tract infections
Transanal irrigation

At the same time, the CCGs are letting people know about updates to their policy for Botulinum toxin treatments, bringing it in line with national guidance from NICE, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the Pan Mersey Area Prescribing Committee.

Dr Rob Caudwell, local GP and chair of NHS Southport and Formby CCG, said: “It is right that we regularly review the services we commission to ensure that we’re providing the most effective treatments that make the best use of our limited NHS resources.”

Dr Craig Gillespie, local GP and acting chair of NHS South Sefton CCG, said: “This review of policies is about looking at the latest guidelines, treatments, methods and technologies and where there is very little or no evidence of effectiveness, there is no benefit in offering them to patients.

Craig added: “Any procedure comes with risk, so it’s important patients are offered those with the maximum clinical or functional benefit, not for cosmetic or psychological reasons. As clinicians we will explore other, more suitable treatments for patients with these types of needs.”

The information gathered will be used to help develop new or revised polices.

No final decisions have been made at this stage and it is important that as many people as possible give their views to help shape local NHS policies for the future. Patients who might not be eligible for treatment will still be able to apply through an Individual Funding Request (IFR) where appropriate.

More details on proposed changes to the policies being reviewed along with a survey, open until 7 July 2019, can be found on each CCG’s website www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk or www.southportandformbyccg.nhs.uk or by emailing mlcsu.involvement@nhs.net or calling 01782 872 506.

NHS South Sefton CCG & NHS Southport and Formby CCG: Will you be part of Europe’s biggest healthcare survey?

by SeftonCVS18/01/201918/01/2019

More than two million people are being given an opportunity to tell the NHS about their experiences of using services at their GP practice. The GP Patient Survey invites a sample of people aged 16 and over from over 7,000 practices across England to take part.

Macmillan Listening Event – Friday 8th February 2019

by SeftonCVS16/01/2019

Following the success of a previous listening event, Macmillan Cancer Support has organised another one in Crosby next month.

At the initial event, people said:

That Community Cancer health care services needed to change
Macmillan Cancer Support needed to deliver care earlier and closer to people and patients
They needed to deliver it in a more joined up manner with other health, wellbeing, and care support

Now they want to hear your thoughts, feelings, and ideas about future Community Health Care Services in Cheshire & Merseyside based on your experiences or the experiences of family and friends.

The listening event will be on Friday, 8 February at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre between 10am and 12noon.

For more information or to book a place at the event contact Joe on 0151 330 0552 or email joehemington@expandinghorizons.co.uk or Claire on 07458 062979 or email clevans@macmillan.org.uk

macmillan listening event.png

Still Time to Give Views about Same Day Healthcare in South Sefton

by SeftonCVS14/01/2019

NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is reminding people that there is still time to give their views and experiences about using and choosing different urgent care services when they need immediate or same day health advice or treatment.

The commissioner, which plans and buys the majority of healthcare for south Sefton residents, has been out and about encouraging people to get involved as part of a review of ‘urgent care’ services since early December 2018.

Urgent care includes services for physical and mental health problems ranging from pharmacies, GP practices, GP out of hours services, the NHS 111 phone line and website, walk-in centres, accident and emergency (A&E) departments/ and 999.

Up until 31 January 2019 the CCG is asking people to complete a questionnaire about these services for adults, children and young people. The information gathered will be used to help develop proposals for how urgent care could look in the future.

Dr Craig Gillespie, GP and acting chair for NHS South Sefton CCG, said: “From our conversations with residents over the past few years we know that some find the current range of urgent care services difficult to choose from and confusing. Sometimes when people don’t know which service to choose they use accident and emergency, which puts extra pressure on hospitals, and means that people might have to wait longer for their treatment.

“This review is the first step towards making sure that our services really meet local needs, so we have been encouraging as many people and NHS staff as possible to get involved and tell us what it’s like to use or work in these services and how they could be better and easier to choose from in the future.

“We’ve been out and about across south Sefton encouraging people to take part and would like to thank the organisations who have helped us reach residents so far, also a big thank you to those who have filled out a survey already.”

The review will also consider how new NHS national guidelines for urgent care services and the introduction of ‘Urgent Treatment Centres’ might be put into place in south Sefton.

NHS South Sefton CCG is carrying out its review with partners across north Merseyside as patients often use urgent care services across this wider area. So, the CCG is also encouraging residents in Southport and Formby who use urgent care services in north Merseyside to complete a survey.

Complete an online questionnaire and find out more on the CCG website: www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk

Healthwatch Sefton is helping us to make the questionnaire available to anyone who may find it difficult to take part online. So, for help to complete a questionnaire, request a paper version, or for another format call Freephone 0800 206 1304, email info@healthwatchsefton.co.uk or text 07434 810 438.