The Victoria Park Community Centre in Bridgwater, Somerset, will host an important event on Thursday 30 November, from 10am to 3pm, dedicated to enhancing the lives of Bridgwater residents who live with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Evolving Communities CIC  and  Healthwatch Somerset , in collaboration with NHS Somerset, are working together to empower people in Bridgwater who are affected by COPD, aiming to help them lead lives that are not just healthy, but also fulfilling. This initiative involves reaching out to local people who have COPD, as well as their families, friends, and caregivers, to gain valuable insights into their needs. This will inform decisions about how to provide the necessary support for accessing healthcare services, obtaining vital information, and taking proactive steps towards living well. Emma Savage, NHS Somerset Deputy Director of Quality and Improvement, will welcome people to the event and explain how the NHS is listening to local people to help improve services and support in Somerset. Book to join the focus group and share your views If you live with COPD in Bridgwater you are invited to join the focus group discussion  on Thursday 30 November (date revised) , to share your views and experiences with the project team (booking is required). Attendees who have COPD will receive £25 vouchers as a gesture of appreciation. Those willing to go the extra mile by volunteering as a Community Connector or featuring as a case study, could win a £100 supermarket voucher. To book your place, get in touch with Wendy Coward, Project Coordinator, via email:  wendy.coward@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk  or phone  07884 370503. Why focus on COPD in Bridgwater? Respiratory diseases continue to be a significant cause of health-related issues and mortality in Somerset. Among these, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) has a higher prevalence in Bridgwater compared to many other regions in England and the county. However, less than 50% of people in Bridgwater have had an annual review with their GP, meaning many are not receiving support or have not been diagnosed with COPD. Understanding COPD: COPD is an umbrella term for a group of lung conditions causing breathing difficulties, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It primarily affects middle-aged or older adults, especially those with a history of smoking or exposure to environmental hazards. Effective treatments and medications are available to enhance breathing capacity and overall activity levels. Individuals can also take proactive measures to manage their condition, significantly enhancing their quality of life. About the COPD project: This community engagement project has been devised to enhance diagnosis, care, and support for COPD patients in Bridgwater. The objectives are to: Reach out, collaborate with and represent individuals living with COPD and chronic respiratory conditions, both diagnosed and undiagnosed. Foster a deeper understanding of their healthcare needs and requirements. Improve community support to alleviate health disparities they may face. Encourage positive actions towards living well. Volunteer Community Connectors are being recruited to assist with this initiative. If you reside in Bridgwater and either have COPD or possess a comprehensive understanding of respiratory diseases and health inequalities, your contribution will help improve health and wellbeing of your community and loved ones. Listen to  The Somerset Emotional Wellbeing Podcast ( castos.com )  on COPD and health inequalities In this episode, hosts Dr Peter Bagshaw and Dr Andrew Tresidder are joined by Wendy Coward from Healthwatch Somerset and Emma Savage from NHS Somerset to discuss what COPD is and what health inequalities are, how they are connected, and why the Bridgwater COPD initiative has been launched as part of NHS England’s Core20PLUS5 programme.

We are asking people to share their experience of booking face-to-face appointments with their GP to help improve access to GP services in the county. Concern about access to GPs continues to be one of the most common issues people raise with us. National and local evidence underscores the challenges people face when booking a GP appointment, including limited face-to-face appointments, increased use of digital technology, and long waiting times. Through our new public survey, we want to find out how you book appointments with your GP, for example, by phone, in person, online, via App or email. We also want to know if you have been offered a face-to-face appointment or an alternative option, and if that was suitable for you. Your feedback drives change Good access to GP services is an important measure of the quality of care being provided locally. Your feedback will help us identify the strengths and weaknesses in the current GP booking processes. We will share our findings with those responsible for GP services in Somerset to help them improve access to GP care.    It’s easy to share your views Complete our confidential survey before 31 January 2024 , to share your experiences and insights. (Survey now closed) If you prefer a paper copy or want to share your thoughts over the phone, call us free on 0800 999 1286. In addition to the survey, we will be conducting focus group discussions and actively participating in community events and venues to gather diverse perspectives. For more information, get in touch: Online:  healthwatchsomerset.co.uk Freephone  0800 999 1286 info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk

NHS social prescribing link workers can connect you to the right community groups and services to help support you. Around one in five GP visits are for non-medical problems. Many things that affect our health can’t be treated by doctors or medicine alone. This includes loneliness, money problems, housing, education or employment status.  What is social prescribing?  Social prescribing is when you work in partnership with a healthcare professional known as a  social prescribing link worker  to identify non-medical solutions. It is a way for health professionals to connect people to community activities, groups and services that support their practical, social, and emotional needs.   Social prescribing  isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, nor is it a replacement for medical care. It complements traditional healthcare by providing holistic support tailored to individual needs, preferences, and goals.  Social prescribing works particularly well for people  who:  Have one or more long-term conditions  Need support with low-level mental health issues  Are lonely or isolated  Have financial instability or are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis  Have complex social needs which affect their wellbeing.  How can I access social prescribing?  There are several ways to access social prescribing. GPs make a large proportion of social prescribing referrals. People can also be referred to local social prescribing link workers from  a wide range of local agencies , including wider general practice, local authorities, pharmacies, multi-disciplinary teams, hospital discharge teams, social care services and housing associations. Self-referral is also encouraged. How can a NHS social prescribing link worker help me?  Social prescribing link workers  will give you time to talk about what matters to you and take a holistic approach to your health and wellbeing to connect you to the right community groups and services. They then produce a  personalised care and support plan  and 'link' you to organisations and services that can help.  Examples of social prescribing services include:  Helping you join a befriending group, an art class or a community gardening project if you feel lonely or isolated  Connecting you to a service that helps with managing debt, claiming benefits or helping you to understand the welfare system if you’re struggling with finances  Helping you take up a form of exercise that works for you if you have a health condition. Need more information?  If you have more questions about social prescribing, NHS England has a list of  frequently asked questions .   Take a look at these other helpful resources:   Social prescribing | Patients Association   Social Prescribing: a new way to feel better | National Association of Link Workers   What is social prescribing? | Kings Fund The transformative effect of social prescribing | Patients Association   Viewpoint: Social prescribers have key role in tackling over-medicalisation of poor mental health | GPonline

In our latest report, we call on those responsible for young people’s mental health services to improve awareness, availability and access to mental health support for young people. In our  previous 2021 research , we found that young people thought mental health services are not promoted in a way that is accessible or inclusive of young people. Given the widely reported impact of Covid on children and young people’s mental health, we wanted to investigate the current situation to find out if young people are aware of the services available to them and how effectively they think these services are promoted and delivered. Our report, which is informed by feedback from 85 young people and their parents/carers, highlights the challenges young people face as they try to understand and get support for their mental health. The key findings include:  80% of young people felt the need for emotional support in the past year. 47% of those who needed support did not look or ask for help. 11% were unaware of any of the Somerset services offering direct support (via talking to young people). Young Somerset emerged as the most frequently contacted service. Schools proved to be pivotal in providing information and signposting for young people and adults. Our report identifies key recommendations aimed at streamlining access to services, improving communication and bolstering support networks for young people. These include: Simplifying access to services, making it easier to find information, to self-refer, and to get ongoing support after treatment. Enhancing communication and promotion of available support, clarifying which services are best suited to individual needs. Establishing a system of support for those experiencing prolonged waits for assessments and treatments. Collaborating with schools, youth groups, community organisations, and family services to facilitate effective communication and access to resources to promote good mental health and emotional wellbeing. Involving young people in the development of new services and proposed changes to existing provision and communicating the value and impact of their involvement. Announcing the report, Gill Keniston-Goble, Healthwatch Somerset Manager, commented: "Many young people clearly feel they need support with their mental health, but they are facing barriers in their journey to getting help, including around information and communication, and long waits for support. We are calling on the organisations involved in delivering and commissioning these services to work together to build an accessible, inclusive, and effective mental health support system for young people in Somerset." Nik Harwood, Chief Executive, Young Somerset, welcomed the report, commenting: "We really value the Healthwatch Somerset report into children and young people's access to mental health and wellbeing provision in Somerset. There are a number of insights into both our provision and the wider Somerset system which will be invaluable in our continuous service improvement efforts. It is a useful tool for us to use with our own participation and inclusion work with Young Somerset service-users and stakeholders." Fiona Phur, Participation and Partnerships Business Manager, at Somerset Council said: "The Engagement and Participation team at Somerset Council have valued the opportunity to support young people’s voices to be heard in this comprehensive and useful report. We hope this will guide practitioners and commissioners in their decisions about the services and interventions that children, young people and their families tell us need to be available." Read the full report , which includes case studies and comments from young people: Reaching out: Looking at mental health support for young people in Somerset

The Somerset Carers Engagement Project recently achieved a significant milestone in its mission to empower and support unpaid carers across the county when it held a major collaborative event to inform Somerset's renewed Commitment to Carers. The Somerset Carers Engagement Project, led by Evolving Communities and Healthwatch Somerset, is working independently on behalf of Somerset’s Integrated Care Board (ICB) which includes Somerset Council and Somerset NHS. It aims to ensure the voices of unpaid carers, both adults and young carers, are heard and used to shape the direction of health and social care services in Somerset. The Commitment to Carers is a statement that acknowledges the issues and challenges faced by unpaid carers and sets out the values and principles that health and social care services should adopt to ensure effective support for unpaid carers. The new Commitment to Carers is being produced with carers and those who work with and support carers, and it will be formally adopted by Somerset ICB in early 2024. It will inform and influence all other strategies, commissioning decisions and service developments in the future. Pictured: Siana Paginton shared her moving story of growing up as a young carer. She highlighted the impact this had on her wellbeing, education and career choices, and explained how social care and support, when it eventually arrived, made such a positive difference. Co-production workshop The recent collaborative workshop brought together over 130 different stakeholders, including unpaid carers, professionals from health and social care, and decision-makers from Somerset Council and NHS Somerset. The event featured a diverse and engaging programme, including keynote addresses from key figures such as Councillor Heather Shearer, Associate Lead Member for Somerset Council Children’s Social Care & SEND; Jonathan Higman, Chief Executive of NHS Somerset; and Paul Coles, Service Director for Adult Social Care Commissioning in Somerset. There were insightful and moving presentations from carers and those who work to support carers, and expert presentations and discussions on various aspects of unpaid caregiving. Highlights from the event included: Facilitated conversations:  Participants engaged in open and group conversations, sharing personal accounts, perspectives and visions for the future of unpaid care in Somerset. Young carers focus:  Special sessions were dedicated to understanding the unique needs and perspectives of young carers, ensuring their inclusion in the commitment to carers initiative. Addressing challenges:  Sessions explored the challenges and issues faced by parent carers, strategies for removing barriers to inclusion, and the importance of collaboration across sectors. Future planning:  The event concluded with a forward-looking session led by Andrew Henon, Somerset Carers Engagement Project Lead, emphasising the commitment to embedded practice, co-production, and continuous improvement. Pictured left to right: Alison Birkett, who read her poem, ‘Where is my man’, about caring for her husband who had dementia; Andrew Henon, Somerset Carers Engagement Project Lead; Siana Paginton, who shared her story of being a young carer; Councillor Heather Shearer, Associate Lead Member for Childrens Social Care & SEND; Gill Keniston-Goble, Healthwatch Somerset Manager; and Jonathan Higman, Chief Executive NHS Somerset. Andrew Henon commented: “The collaborative working event marked a crucial step towards renewing our commitment to unpaid carers in Somerset. The valuable insights gained from diverse perspectives will contribute significantly to shaping the Commitment to Carers 2024, ensuring it reflects the needs and aspirations of our community. I want to thank everyone who attended on the day and helped make it such an energising and valuable event, as well as the many carers who could not join us due their caring responsibilities, but who have contributed in other ways.” Next steps Feedback and findings from the event will be analysed and combined with other evidence, data and reports, including insight gained by talking to carers across Somerset and case studies of unpaid carers’ experiences. The information gathered will inform the final Commitment to Carers, to be formally adopted by NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board (ICB) in early 2024.

Access to care is the main concern people have shared with Healthwatch in the past year. A new report by Healthwatch England looking at health and social care from the patients' perspective has warned that we risk "a two-tier health and care system" unless the NHS takes faster action to tackle access issues. The report examines ten key areas of care, including GPs, dentists, hospitals and social care, based on the experiences of 65,000 patients. While much of the support the NHS provides is good, the research has found accessing this support in the first place remains the biggest challenge people face. ' The public's perspective: The state of health and social care ' highlights the following: barriers and delays to timely care affect nearly every part of the NHS and social care system; and when combined with issues such as the cost of living, this situation risks widening existing health inequalities. For example, people in deprived areas wait longer for some care than those in affluent areas. Financially struggling individuals often avoid healthcare due to additional costs like travel. And many people are turning to private dental care due to a lack of access to NHS dentists. In order to further explore access discrepancies between better-off people and those on lower incomes, Healthwatch England commissioned a poll looking at the use of private care today. Key findings People who are more financially comfortable were much more likely to be able to access free or discounted private GP appointments through their work than those who were less financially comfortable.  People in better jobs/financial positions were much more likely to access health-related workplace perks and healthy living perks. ​ Some, particularly young people, were advised to consider paying for private care by NHS staff.  What people told Healthwatch England The poll conducted by Savanta on 24 and 25 September with 1,758 adults living in England from a nationally representative sample of the UK, highlights the following: People in better-paid jobs are more likely to have private care provided through work People with higher incomes are more likely to have work-based or private health insurance, free or discounted access to private healthcare, and healthy living perks than those with lower incomes. Two in five (40%) of employed people describing their financial status as 'very comfortable' have access to free or discounted private GP appointments through their place of work.  This compared to 16% who described themselves as 'quite comfortable', and around 10% as 'just getting by' and 'really struggling'.  Private GP appointments through work are available to a third, 33%, of the highest earners (those earning over £76k), compared to just one in 25, four per cent, of those earning up to £21k. ​ Private mental health appointments through work are available to 23% of the highest earners (those earning over £76k) compared to just 3.5% of those earning up to £21k. ​ Private physiotherapy appointments through work are available to one in eight, 13%, of the highest earners (those earning over £76k) compared to just one per cent of those earning up to £21k. People turn to private care when unable to get NHS treatment Nearly a third (28%) of all the respondents said they had accessed private healthcare in the last year (either private health or dental care). The most common reasons given for accessing private healthcare were:  people felt they'd receive better quality care (37%)  the waiting list was too long (34%) they paid for a procedure available on the NHS but not in their region (22%). One in five (18%) of those who hadn't used private healthcare in the last year had considered doing so. ​The most common reasons given for considering private healthcare were:  Over half, 52%, of the respondents felt they might receive better quality care. Over a third, 34%, said there was a long waiting list on the NHS; and 15% said the service they wanted wasn't available on the NHS. Some people are being signposted to go private One in seven (14%) of the respondents reported that an NHS professional had advised them to consider paying for a private health service in the last year. The largest group advised to go private were young people below 30 years. We know this group is already more likely to avoid accessing NHS services, such as dentists and GPs, due to associated costs and travel fares. Louise Ansari, CEO at Healthwatch England, said:  "With access to NHS care remaining the most significant challenge people report to us nationwide, we're seeing a two-tier system emerge where access to healthcare services is often available faster to those with money to pay for it. "Our polling shows, for example, that people who are more financially comfortable are much more likely to be able to access free or discounted private GP appointments through their work than those who are less financially comfortable. We are also concerned that one in seven people who answered our poll said they have been advised to consider paying for a private health service by NHS professionals, which many cannot afford. "We know that many people, especially those on lower incomes, disabled people, carers and younger people, face real challenges accessing care and if they can access services, they sometimes choose not to attend GP or dental appointments or buy prescription medications to avoid extra costs." Two-tier health system  Healthwatch is seeing a two-tier system emerge, where healthcare services are accessible only to those who can afford it. The ongoing struggles to access care are deepening the existing health inequalities while putting the lives of many people at risk. There's a body of research showing that people who live in deprived areas face ongoing challenges in accessing care and have poorer health outcomes.  According to the  Office for National Statistics (ONS) data , GP practices in the most deprived areas have around 300 more patients per fully qualified doctors compared to the least deprived areas.   Healthwatch England's research on the cost of living  earlier this year showed people struggling financially or who received income from benefits, and young people were more likely to avoid going to the dentist, attending/ travelling to a GP appointment or buying over-the-counter medication. Healthwatch England want to see a health and care system that works for everyone and have issued calls to action setting out immediate solutions for the NHSE, commissioners and service providers. While healthcare leaders have recognised growing health inequalities and have taken some action to tackle access issues, faster progress is needed with national recovery plans, and a greater focus on ending inconsistent experiences across different areas and demographics. 1. Improve access for the most vulnerable by ensuring that: Commissioners and providers take all opportunities to provide early or ongoing support through additional staff roles, including mental health practitioners, peer support workers, and school-based teams.  The NHS covers transport and accommodation costs where patients choose to travel for quicker treatment at another setting Better signposting to support services, including voluntary organisations and services that support unpaid carers. 2. Improve patient communications by ensuring that: There are improvements to online referral trackers, so people waiting for care know what is happening with their care.  More proactive NHS communications with patients while they wait for treatment. Single points of contact, either in person, over the phone, or via the NHS app, so patients waiting for care can give feedback about issues or changes in their condition.

Our report following a visit to Newholme, a residential care home in the village of Ruishton near Taunton, which provides accommodation for people with a learning disability. This is a small home with six residents. Key findings There is a real sense that this is the residents’ home, and staff appear to be like family within the home. The Manager and deputy appear very caring and committed to ensuring each resident is happy and healthy. The environment felt homely and welcoming, calm, and organised. Interactions between residents and staff were very personalised; staff know residents well. It was apparent the home sought to get the right staff to fit the ethos and culture of the home. Residents are able to move around the home easily from their rooms to the communal areas as all rooms are on one level. Residents are able (within reason) to choose when they eat and what they do throughout the day. We were told the ethos is to manage risk but to allow as much freedom and choice within the constraints of those risks. Residents have regular contact with family members, often facilitated by the home. The home has good relationships with the GP and also the local community. Recommendations We would like the home to consider the following recommendations based on our observations and findings from the visit. We particularly liked the noticeboard with staff pictures, what the weather would be like, and what activities were taking place that week. We would recommend this to other homes. We liked that the home had made links with the local community, including  someone coming in to read to residents, and would encourage them to continue to build on this. The inclusion of a resident when interviewing prospective new staff felt very inclusive and we would recommend this as good practice. Read our report If you need this report in a different format, please email  info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk  or call 0800 999 1286.

Do you or a loved one need help with social care? Read the article below to find out answers to key questions about who can access adult social care and how to pay for it. Social care can be very different from the health care you receive from the NHS. Although it can include medical help, social care offers more practical support to enable people to live independently. These services are usually provided in people's homes, care homes or elsewhere in the community rather than at a GP practice or hospital. If you or a loved one needs social care, it's important to understand what types of care and support are available, where to find the correct information and how to fund services. How do I receive help through social care? If you live in Somerset, the first step is to speak to Somerset's Adult Social Care Services  and request an assessment. If you need social care for yourself, this is called a 'care assessment', a 'customer assessment' or a 'needs assessment'. If you provide unpaid care for someone else, your assessment is called a 'carers assessment'.  Alternatively, you may be offered a care assessment at home after being discharged from the hospital, called a 'discharge to assess' or a 'home first' approach. The NHS can also assess people with very complex and long-term health needs for social care support, known as ' NHS Continuing Healthcare ' or 'NHS CHC', and involves a separate assessment process from the needs assessments carried out by local authorities. Who can access adult social care support? If you're an older person, living with a disability, have a long-term condition, or recovering from hospital, you may require social care services. All adults over 18 are entitled to an evaluation to determine whether they could qualify for help or support. You can have a free assessment to determine your eligibility for support. If you have family or friends caring for you, you may not have to pay for services. Additionally, carers can also receive support for their wellbeing and training. Once you qualify for aid, your council can help you create a personalised plan that meets your specific needs. Watch James' Social Care Story How do I pay for social care? A 'financial assessment' or 'means test' will determine whether you qualify for free social care or need to contribute towards the cost of your care. The criteria used in means tests are complicated and involve the local authority looking at your 'financial assets'. If you are eligible for any financial support, your local authority will provide you with a 'personal budget' which you can spend on local services. Some people can also qualify for free social care through  NHS continuing healthcare . However, if your assessment finds you are not eligible, you might be eligible instead for ' NHS-funded nursing care ', where the NHS will contribute to the cost of your nursing care, for example, in a care home. The organisation  Beacon  provides free independent advice on NHS continuing healthcare. Unpaid carers do not have to contribute towards the support services they access following an assessment. What type of support is available through social care? Your local authority is responsible for managing social care services in your area. Councils may provide some services themselves, or they may buy services from care providers to meet the needs of their community. Local services can include: Support to help people develop the skills needed to live independently. Sometimes these services are referred to as 'reablement services' or 'short-term support'. They can involve help with doing certain activities again after illness or injury. Support with getting up in the morning, washing, dressing and using the toilet. These services are known as 'personal care'. Help with household tasks like cleaning, cooking, eating or shopping. Support with organising physical, leisure or social activities. These services are called 'daycare services' or 'daycare opportunities'. They can involve serving meals or refreshments, helping with health issues or providing an opportunity to meet and chat with others. 'Respite care' or 'carers breaks' provide opportunities for unpaid carers to take a break from caring. During these breaks, the person being cared for would have their care needs met by different carers, sometimes in a different location for a few hours, an overnight stay or even longer. Support finding housing for people affected by homelessness who have care needs following a needs assessment. Where can I find more information about social care? Somerset Council  has a dedicated information and advice service which can provide people with details about local social care so you can make well-informed choices and plans based on the help you need. Information and advice services will provide more information on: Assessments and eligibility. Personal budgets. Choosing the right care option. Safeguarding. Independent advocacy. Need more support? You can also find more advice on social care here: Age UK Scope Mencap Independent Age Carers UK

Cervical cancer screenings save at least 2,000 lives every year in the UK. Here's what you should expect from your smear test and why these screenings are important. One in 142 women in the UK will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in their lifetime. A cervical cancer screening, better known as a smear test, can detect the development of abnormal cells in the cervix and prevent cervical cancer. Who is eligible? All women and people with a cervix are eligible for a cervical cancer screening. This includes Trans men and non-binary people who are assigned female at birth and registered with their GP as female. Screenings will occur at regular intervals between the ages of 25 and 64. If you're 25 to 49, invites to screenings will be every three years. For those aged 50 to 64, this will be every five years. What to expect A smear test should take around five minutes, and the whole appointment should take at most ten minutes. A female GP or nurse will carry out the test, but if you have any concerns, contact your GP practice or sexual health clinic ahead of your appointment, and they will work with you.  The smear test may feel uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. If you experience pain during the exam, inform the GP or nurse attending you immediately.  Many people put off booking or attending their smear test because they're not sure  what to expect . Healthcare professionals conducting the exam will ensure you feel comfortable and safe and will be happy to talk you through the procedure. An easy guide about cervical screening for women aged 25 to 64 Talk to someone A smear test is a very personal procedure, which can be off-putting for some. You can talk to someone about the test if you feel embarrassed or worried. Sometimes it's easier to speak to someone you don't know. Your GP or nurse can talk you through what to expect, addressing any concerns or worries about the test.  You may want to contact an organisation that provides information and support about having cervical screening if you're unable to speak with your practice:  Eve Appeal  offers information and support for anyone affected by gynaecological cancers. It also provides information about cervical screening for transgender, non-binary and intersex people. Call their helpline on 0808 802 0019. Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust (Jo's Trust)  offers information and support for anyone affected by cervical cancer or abnormal cervical cell changes. Call their helpline on 0808 802 8000. After the exam Your GP practice or sexual health clinic will send your cell sample to a lab after the test. Ask the nurse or doctor when you will get your test results. Often, the most challenging part of cervical screening is waiting for results. It is natural to worry about this. Usually, you will get a letter with the results within two to four weeks. If you are still waiting to hear something by six weeks, tell your GP so they can check for you. After the exam, you may experience light vaginal bleeding for a day. If it continues longer than this or is particularly heavy, contact your GP or sexual health clinic immediately. Where can I get a smear test? Your GP practice can offer you an appointment for your smear test. You will be automatically invited to a test up to six months before you turn 25 or when your next one is due.  However, the impact of the pandemic may mean that you are overdue an appointment or have yet to receive an invite. It's always worthwhile checking in with your GP. You can also attend a  sexual health clinic  to have your smear test done if your GP practice cannot offer you an appointment. Need more support?  Follow the links below for more information on cervical cancer, how to book your smear test and what to expect: Cervical screening | NHS Cervical cancer - stages, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment | Macmillan Cancer Support Cervical screening for trans men and/or non-binary people | Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust Should trans men have cervical screening tests? | NHS What happens at a cervical screening appointment | NHS Find a sexual health clinic | NHS

Share your feedback by 31 October 2023 to help improve access to NHS dentistry. We want to hear about your experiences of accessing NHS dental care and how this is affecting your oral health. This research is in response to ongoing concerns raised by local people about the scarcity of NHS dentists, leading to difficulties obtaining both routine and urgent dental care. People are also telling us that a lack of NHS dental care is affecting their physical and mental health, and they are highlighting the high cost and financial strain associated with private dental care. Demand for NHS dental care in Somerset is currently greater than the services available. Research has shown that the closure of dental practices locally and changes to NHS dental services have contributed to the shortage of NHS dentists in the county. "The consequences of this lack of NHS dental care on the oral health of our communities are likely to be significant, potentially leading to a notable decline in the overall oral health of our residents. Coupled with the rising cost of living, concerns over the accessibility and affordability of dental care have become even more pronounced, contributing to discussions about health inequality, locally and nationally. We want to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current situation in Somerset, so we are investigating local people’s experiences and perspectives of NHS dental care. We will share our findings with those responsible for dental care and oral health in Somerset." Gill Keniston-Goble, Healthwatch Somerset Manager Share your feedback It’s easy to share your anonymous feedback with us to help improve access to NHS dentistry in Somerset. Visit the project page to complete our survey online , or call 0800 999 1286 (Freephone) to request a paper copy of the survey or to share your views over the phone. [The survey is now closed] Making a difference locally, regionally and nationally In April 2023, NHS Somerset took over responsibility for commissioning NHS dentistry. The insights gathered through this research will be shared with NHS Somerset to help them understand the current challenges surrounding access to dentistry and its impact on the oral health of Somerset’s communities. At a regional level, we regularly highlight concerns about the local situation by updating the NHS Local Dental Network (LDN) for the South West about public enquiries received around dentistry. We also share public feedback about dentistry in Somerset with Healthwatch England, to inform their national research and campaign urging NHS England to improve access and affordability in NHS dental care. Find out more

Find out what support is available to help you when travelling to your GP, hospital or other NHS services. If you don't have good access to transport, it can mean missing out on health check-ups, routine screenings, and regular appointments for long-term conditions, such as chemotherapy. Most people drive, use public transport, or rely on the kindness of family and friends to get to the doctor, pharmacist, or hospital on time. But, if you don't have good access to transport, it can mean you're late or miss your appointment. It can be even harder if you need to attend regular appointments at a hospital for long-term conditions, such as chemotherapy treatment for cancer. There are lots of reasons why you might not be able to get to NHS services easily for non-emergency issues. For example, we often hear from people who are physically unable to travel, can't afford transport, or live in a rural area. Here, we provide some information about the support available to help make this easier for you.  What support is available? If you need help getting to appointments, find out whether you're eligible for NHS-funded support. If you can't travel because of your medical condition Ask your GP or the person who referred you to hospital whether  Patient Transport Services  run in your area. These services provide free transport to and from a hospital for: People whose condition means they need additional medical support during their journey People who find it difficult to walk Parents or carers of children who are being transported If you're travelling on public transport If you do not receive benefits but have to make frequent trips by public transport, there may be weekly or monthly season tickets that can reduce costs, or options such as booking tickets online, which may work out cheaper than the total cost of one ticket.   For students, people with disabilities and those over 60, there are often options for reduced or free travel passes. In some areas, people can apply for a bus pass that allows you to  travel free  of charge if you're over 60 or above pensionable age (depending on the area). National Rail offers a range of  discounts and concessions  for children, people over 60, and people with disabilities. Local Authority websites will have details on how to apply for disabled bus travel passes. These can sometimes also include a companion traveller, depending on the disability and mental capacity for independent travel. If you're visiting hospital regularly If you're visiting hospital regularly, there may be options for you to receive discounted costs on parking. Some NHS Acute Trusts give out seven-day passes for visitors/patients, for example, during a maternity stay, where one vehicle that might be responsible for collecting the mother and new baby can have a free or reduced-cost pass. However, this is only offered in some places. In other areas, frequent visitors, for example, patients with cancer or receiving dialysis or other long-term conditions, may be given a hospital pass or free parking. In one area, local Healthwatch were able to work with the Trust on introducing season ticket discounts for frequent visitors across three hospital sites. If you're driving to hospital, you can check its  parking facilities before you go .  Could you get a refund for your hospital transport costs? If you’re not eligible for Patient Transport Services, you could claim a refund for the cost of your travel or taking a child to hospital through the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme. You may be able to benefit from the service if: You can’t afford the cost of travelling to hospital You can’t get a friend or relative to take you Voluntary organisations Depending on your situation, and where you live, you can also find voluntary organisations that can help you get to hospital. For example, the  Royal Voluntary Service  put older people who struggle to get to hospital in touch with local volunteer drivers.  Age UK  also runs door-to-door transport services for older people.

Find out what a ‘fit note’ is, when you might need one and how to get one. What is a fit note? The Statement of Fitness for Work, commonly known as the ‘fit note’ or Med 3 form, was introduced in 2010. It's the medical statement used to advise patients about the impact of their health condition on fitness for work. Fit note changes From 1 July 2022, registered nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and physiotherapists, alongside doctors, can certify and issue fit notes. This means you can get a fit note from the healthcare professional treating you, for instance, a physiotherapist, if it’s within their scope of practice. A new version of the fit note was introduced in April 2022. The requirement for the healthcare professional to sign the form in ink has been removed and replaced by the issuer’s name and profession. This lets healthcare professionals certify fit notes digitally, which means you can get a fit note through digital channels (where an IT system supports this). For more information, take a look at  government guidance  on fit notes. When do I need a fit note? If you're unwell for seven days or less and need to take time off work, you don't need to give your employer medical evidence that you've been ill. Instead, you should self-certify sickness for this period. From the eighth day, if you're still ill then you may need to submit medical evidence in the form of a fit note to your employer. You need to count all the days in a row that you’ve been sick, including non-working days such as weekends and bank holidays. This is the same if you're claiming Universal Credit. How do I get a fit note? You can ask for a fit note from the healthcare professional who is treating you. This could be during a consultation at your GP practice or a hospital. They'll assess whether your health condition impacts on your ability to work and whether a fit note is required. Your healthcare professional may choose the “may be fit for work” option if they feel that you are able to do work with support from your employer, even if it's not your usual workload or job. How healthcare professionals assess fitness for work Your healthcare professional will assess your fitness for work by considering how your health condition affects what you can do at work. They will decide whether you are fit for work, ‘ may be fit for work ’ or are ‘ not fit for work ’. Your healthcare professional will give you advice on the fit note about how your health affects what you can do at work. Make sure you discuss this with them and understand their advice, as they won't automatically assess that you're not fit for work. They will consider your fitness for work in general instead of just thinking about your current job. If they decide that you ‘ may be fit for work ’, they'll give advice on any workplace adjustments that would help you stay in or return to work. The fit note form may be updated during the assessment with the options below: A phased return to work:  a gradual increase in work duties or hours Altered hours:  changes to the times or duration of work Amended duties:  changing duties to take account of a condition Workplace adaptations:  changing aspects of the workplace, such as working from home This gives you and your employer the maximum flexibility to think about ways to help you stay or return to work. You should discuss your fit note with your employer to see if they can help you stay or return to work and come to an agreement on what may be appropriate for you. We know most employers want to help their employees succeed in work and can often make changes to the workplace or job duties. If your employer can't make or accommodate these changes, they'll need to arrange sick pay. Your healthcare professional might advise that you can't do any kind of work. If this is the case, then show the fit note to your employer to arrange your sick pay. They can take a copy, but you should keep the original. It’s usually a good idea to keep in touch with your employer while you're off work, so you're ready when it’s time to go back. You can get advice about sick pay from your trade union if you're part of one, or see  information about sick pay . What financial support am I entitled to if I’m sick and unable to work? If you are classed as an employee and earn an average of at least £123 per week, you may be eligible to receive  Statutory Sick Pay  which is paid at £109.40 a week for up to 28 weeks, starting from the fourth day you’re off sick. Statutory Sick Pay is paid by your employer in the same way as your normal wages, for example weekly or monthly. You’ll be paid for all the days you’re off sick that you normally would have worked, except for the first three days. You can check if you’re eligible for Statutory Sick Pay on the  Government website . If you’re self-employed you can apply for Universal Credit. How much you can get will depend on what stage your application is at, as well as things like your age and whether you’re able to get back to work at some point.