The figures speak for themselves It is estimated regular screening tests can help to prevent 75 per cent of all cervical cancer cases. Despite this, around 20 per cent NHS cervical of women do not take up their GP’s invitation to a test. screening For emergencies only You don’t always have to go to A&E – a lot of common illnesses can be treated at home. Check your symptoms at www.nhs.uk Health news Don’t reject smear invite WOMEN in Tower Hamlets are being encouraged to attend cervical screening tests when invited by their GP surgery. Those aged between 25 and 64 are eligible for a free check every three to five years. Also known as a smear test, it detects changes in the cells around the cervix. The symptoms of cervical cancer are not always obvious, and it may not be so until the disease is at an advanced stage. GP Dr Sam Everington, who chairs NHS Tower Hamlets Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “Every year, nearly 3,000 women in the UK are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and detecting it early can save your life. That’s why it’s so important women make an appointment with their GP.” Disability gym calls for support A SPECIALIST gym, which helps disabled people become fitter, stronger and more independent, is seeking volunteers and donations to help reduce its waiting list. Ability Bow takes referrals from health professionals and runs personalised gym sessions for clients. People living with long-term disabilities and health conditions such as cerebral palsy, asthma and diabetes can all take part. Director Victoria Kent said: “We all know these are challenging times and we understand there is less statutory funding available. However, the cuts that we have faced have a significant effect on how we are able to provide lasting positive changes for our clients. “We know how beneficial their gym sessions are and how they become less reliant on NHS services, family and friends.” The service has raised £210,000 of its annual £240,000 costs, but still faces a shortfall of £30,000 per year. People who can volunteer their skills as qualified gym instructors or in marketing and fundraising are being invited to offer their support. Residents are also being asked donate dash. Contact 8980 7778, email info@abilitybow.co.uk or visit www.abilitybow.co.uk for further information. Campaign urges patients to do their bit to ease pressure Dr Steve Ryan, medical director at Barts Health, is promoting the campaign Be A&E wise in winter months BY JESSICA ODUBAYO RESIDENTS are being urged to use hospital A&E departments wisely in the coming winter months. Information about when, and when not, to visit casualty is being widely publicised. The ‘A&E is for emergencies only’ campaign is aimed at ensuring people get the best medical treatment at the earliest opportunity, as well as avoiding unnecessary pressure on hospitals in the borough. It includes details of alternative places to go. Hospice opens up to Richard House kids PART of St Joseph’s Hospice has been adapted so children from Richard House in Newham can move in while their building is refurbished. A whole wing of St Joseph’s, which provides care for adults, has been adapted to the needs and specialist equipment needed by the children’s care team. Bedrooms are being enlarged and equipment improved at the eight-bedded unit in Beckton for children and young adults with a life-limiting condition. It is being closed while the work is carried out. Dr Steve Ryan, medical director at Barts Health, has been highlighting the promotion. “Our priority is to provide the best possible medical treatment to all our patients,” he said. “This campaign is about giving people as much information as possible so they make the right choice when deciding where to go to be treated.” The campaign explains that a lot of common illnesses can be treated at home using medicine and getting plenty of rest. It advises people to keep common medicines such as pain tablets, indigestion remedies, Peter Ellis (left) with Michael Kerin Michael Kerin, chief executive of St Joseph’s Hospice, which lies on the border of Tower Hamlets and Hackney, said: “We are delighted to offer Richard House a dedicated area in our building rehydration mixture and a thermometer in their medicine cabinet at home. Making an appointment to see your GP and checking symptoms using the NHS symptom checker www.nhs.uk are other options. People are also urged to contact pharmacies for expert advice about medicines that can help with common conditions. As well as dispensing prescriptions, they provide a range of services related to specific health issues and can advise on minor ailments such as colds, skin conditions and allergies. for the children and young people who need specialist care.” Peter Ellis, chief executive of Richard House, said staff were very grateful to St Joseph’s for the loan of “a fantastic space”. 10 NEWS FROM TOWER HAMLETS COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY 27 JANUARY – 2 FEBRUARY 2014
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