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Category: Health

Dedicated testing for South African variant underway

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Today (Wednesday 3rd Feb) will see a new, dedicated Mobile Test Unit open in the PR9 area of Southport, as part of national measures to identify and stamp out the South African variant of the COVID-19 virus.

Located at the former Kew Park and Ride site, the new mobile units will be open from 8am to 4pm, which will be extended to 8am to 8pm within the coming days. Sefton Council has set up the new mobile site specifically for people living and working within the affected area.

Additionally, today a team will start delivering the 10,000 home test kits, that were delivered to Sefton Council last night, to addresses in the area affected.

Made up of Council and Fire Service staff reassigned from other roles and local voluntary service members, the team will take the test kits to homes and businesses. Where possible, they will wait while people test themselves then deliver the swabs to a collection area. They will also be able to provide advice and information including details of how to self-isolate if necessary and the support available.

Results showing whether people have tested positive for COVID-19 will come through in about two days, as is normal with this kind of PCR test. Analysis of the swabs to identify the presence of the South African variant at Laboratories is expected to take up to 10 days.

Sefton Council is reminding local people that anyone involved in this process will carry clear Council identification and that they will not be asked for any money or to provide financial details. They will never enter people’s homes.

Sefton’s Director of Public Health, Margaret Jones said: “Having been told that the variant had been identified in the Borough late on Saturday, I am pleased that we have been able to get this testing for the area up and running today. It is a real testament to the way everyone has worked to make this programme work.

“We want everyone aged 16 and over in the affected area to take one of these specific tests, either using the home test kit that will be delivered to them or by using the dedicated Mobile Unit at the former Kew Park and Ride site. This will help us identify and nip this variant, which could be more transmissible meaning that it could spread more quickly, in the bud.”

Despite its potentially greater transmission rate, there is nothing to suggest the vaccines that are currently being rolled out across the country.

Responding to questions that have arisen nationally about what lockdown measures people in the affected areas should be taking, Mrs Jones said: “We are not asking people in the affected area of Southport to do anything different from anyone across the rest of the Borough or the rest of the country.

“It remains vital that all of us protect ourselves and others and that means sticking to the national lockdown regulations.

“We need to stay at home except for essential purposes such as shopping for essential supplies, going to work if we can’t do so from home, providing care and going for a coronavirus test if we need one.

“And if we do go out, we all need to make sure we are maintaining at least 2-metres’ distancing, wearing a mask or face covering while out and about and washing our hands frequently.”

Mrs Jones went on to explain that people across the rest of Sefton, outside of the part of the PR9 postcode being targeted for the variant that if they develop coronavirus symptoms, they need to book a test by calling 119 or visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus  

She also explained that SMART testing sites, at Southport’s Splash World, Bootle Leisure Centre and Aintree racecourse were only for people with no coronavirus symptoms who are key workers and people with caring commitments during the lockdown. People in these groups should be going regularly for SMART tests, which tell people if they are carrying the COVID-19 virus without knowing in as little as 30 minutes.

Further information, including tips about support during self-isolation, can be found at www.sefton.gov.uk/covid19

COVID-19 vaccination roll-out gathers pace in Sefton

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As the roll out of COVID-19 vaccinations gathers pace across the NHS, our GP led services in Sefton continue to make good progress immunising priority patients.

Working together with the borough’s two clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), GP led services are working hard to vaccinate those most at risk of COVID-19 first – this meant starting in late December with care home staff and residents, people aged over 80 and frontline health and care staff – before moving onto the next priority groups.

As well as operating from local vaccination centres, roving teams of immunisers have been going directly into care homes to vaccinate residents and staff.

Dr Craig Gillespie, chair of NHS South Sefton CCG, explained: “Since December our GP practices have been working together in groups to deliver the vaccinations as quickly as possible to those most at risk by inviting them into a community centre in Sefton to be immunised safely and we’re making good progress.”

Sefton’s GP led services are just one part of the national vaccination programme. A regional vaccination centre has also opened at St Helens rugby league club’s stadium, which is an additional option and some pharmacies in Sefton will also join the national programme by the end of January.

Dr Gillespie continues: “The regional vaccination centre in St Helens is in addition to our local GP led services. We understand it won’t work for everyone and if you do get a letter to go there and can’t travel or don’t want to go there please don’t worry. You will still be contacted by the GP led service to be invited for your vaccine in the centre nearest to you.”

Dr Rob Caudwell, chair of NHS Southport and Formby CCG, said: “Importantly, we are still asking you not to contact your GP practice or another NHS organisation to ask for your vaccination – or to request one for a member of your household or carer.

“We are asking people not to turn up at a regional vaccination centre without an appointment. Our GP led service will be in touch as soon as it can book you in for the vaccine. We are also asking you to stay safe and follow the restrictions in place, even if you have had your first dose of the vaccine which gives you a good level of protection but not the maximum. You may be partially protected but others around you might not be so please remember, hands, space, face.”

If you haven’t already been vaccinated at a GP led service and receive the letter from the national service, providing you can travel to the regional vaccination centre safely, we recommend that you book using the details the letter provides.

If you are unable or don’t want to go to a regional vaccination centre, you can choose to wait and get your vaccination from your nearest GP led service, this might not be at your usual GP practice but details of that will be shared with you when you are contacted.

Some residents may be offered their vaccinations in hospital if they are an inpatient or an outpatient during the vaccine roll out. Hospitals are also vaccinating health and care staff.

This is the biggest vaccination programme the NHS has ever undertaken. It is a huge challenge and the local NHS is working hard to overcome any logistical issues as they may arise.  The exact weekly roll-out of the programme will be largely shaped by the vaccine supply from the manufacturers.

You can find out more about the programme here; www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/

Shaping Care Together – Help to Shape the Future of your Local Health Service

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Health leaders in Southport Formby and West Lancashire are inviting people to share their views and experiences of local healthcare by getting involved with Shaping Care Together, a programme of work designed to improve hospital services.

Like NHS services across the country, our local hospitals face significant challenges. Some have been with us for years while the urgency of others has been made clear during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Shaping Care Together will explore how health and care services are accessible, effective and operated by skilled staff to meet everyone’s needs. Care should be integrated with other services so that patients are supported by the services they need as quickly and safely as possible.

Views are being sought on what currently works well at Southport and Ormskirk hospitals as well as in primary and community healthcare services and in particular, what steps should be taken to improve the following:

Despite the challenges our hospitals face, local access to care has been improved by providing services in the community during the evenings and at weekends.

·        frail and elderly care

·        when you have an urgent or emergency care need

·        services for children including those who have complex needs

·        services for women who are pregnant and for the new-born

·        gynaecology – dealing with women’s reproductive system

·        sexual health services for all genders

·    planned care, such as follow-up outpatient and/or subsequent admissions
as part of ongoing treatment.

Shaping Care Together is the first stage of a process to understand patient views and experiences before any proposals to solve the challenges faced are considered.  This programme will last throughout 2021 and there will be many opportunities for local people to have their say. No decisions have yet been made and they are seeking views which will inform their thinking and proposals for change.

Over the coming months there will be lots of different ways for people to get involved but first views can be shared on the dedicated website:

·        Fill in the survey here

·        Find more information here

(If you would prefer a paper copy of the questionnaire, please call 0151 920 0726)

Shaping Care Together is led by NHS Southport and Formby CCG, and Southport and Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust and NHS West Lancashire CCG.

Patients raise concerns over hospital discharge

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A national Healthwatch report (which includes local insight from Sefton), highlights how patients are grateful to hard-working doctors, nurses and care staff for continuing to deliver compassionate care in difficult circumstances. This work was supported by the British Red Cross.

But an investigation into hospital discharge processes shows the majority of patients (82%) surveyed nationally did not receive recommended follow-up visits after discharge.

Patients felt unready to leave hospital and missed out on vital follow-up visits and assessments according to new Healthwatch and British Red Cross research into hospital discharge arrangements during the first five months of the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the investigation did also uncover a number of positives including increased collaboration between services and positive feedback from the public for healthcare staff working under pressure.

As part of this national review, Healthwatch Sefton carried out work to better understand the impact of emergency measures implemented earlier this year to free up beds for COVID-19 patients.

Healthwatch Sefton carried out eight in-depth interviews with key staff involved in the discharge process in the Sefton area, working as part of the Southport & Formby health and care system.

Alongside this, more than 500 patients and carers across England took part in a national survey which gathered people’s experiences from late March to late August.

Some of the key findings included:

  • 82% of respondents did not receive a follow-up visit and assessment at home, one of the key recommendations of the policy
  • Some people felt their discharge was rushed, with around one in five (19%) feeling unprepared to leave hospital
  • Over a third (35%) of respondents and their carers did not get a contact for further advice, despite this being a recommendation
  • Overall patients and families were very positive about healthcare staff, praising their efforts during such a difficult time

Healthwatch Sefton Manager, Diane Blair, said: “Being involved in this national review was a challenge in terms of the number of in-depth interviews we had to undertake in a short space of time but in listening to the local experiences of professionals from a number of different perspectives we learnt a lot about how the system has been working and suggestions for how we could improve local services for the future. We spoke with Southport & Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust, care home managers, community providers, a social worker and a GP. ”

As a result of the findings, recommendations from Healthwatch and the British Red Cross were given to help manage a second wave of COVID-19 hospital admissions.

Sir Robert Francis QC, Chair of Healthwatch England, said:“In March, hospitals were asked to discharge patients with little or no notice and the speed with which this took place was important but led to mistakes. We do not want to detract from the heroic efforts of those on the frontline, who often put themselves at great risk to care for their patients, but services and system leaders have now had more time to prepare.

“It’s essential we learn from what people have shared with us about the impact a poorly-handled discharge can have on them and their loved ones. Taking action now will not only reduce the risk to patients but will also help improve the way people leave hospital in the future.”

Read the full report on the Healthwatch Sefton website, via https://healthwatchsefton.co.uk/reports/national-reports/

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

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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)

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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

Read More “Information about access to food during the summer holidays (Summer 2020)”

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

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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)

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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

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

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

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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.

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

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

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Liverpool City Region

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:

  1. Opportunities to Build Back Better
  2. Business Ecosystems
  3. People
  4. Place
  5. Infrastructure
  6. 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

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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)

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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.

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

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

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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.

Read More “One Knowsley Urgent Recruitment – Social Prescribing Link Workers (closing Thursday16th April)”

Merseyside Safeguarding Adults Board (MSAB) Latest Newsletter now available

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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)

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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 

Read More “Sefton Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) Upcoming Training Opportunities (March-June 2020)”

Sefton residents invited to health commissioners’ meetings

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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.

Read More “Sefton residents invited to health commissioners’ meetings”

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

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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

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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)

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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

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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.

Read More “Help support Sefton’s Foodbanks this Christmas”

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

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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.

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

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

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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)

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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.

Sefton LSCB poster.png

Tips to Look After Yourself this Bank Holiday

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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

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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

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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

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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 71st 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

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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

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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.

Read More “Have your say on Sefton health policies review”

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

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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.

Read More “Life After Stroke – Help for residents recovering from a stroke who feel isolated”

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