NHS issues advice to public to help reduce winter pressures

NHS Suffolk and North East Essex has launched a new winter web page and social media campaign to help people make the right choice when it comes to dealing with a health problem: https://sneewellbeing.org.uk/winter/.

Clinicians say it is important people use the right service to look after themselves and to manage any health concerns so 999 call-takers, paramedics and Emergency Departments have more capacity to look after people with life-threatening illness or injury.

The launch of the site comes as local health services face increasing pressure with high levels of demand in hospitals and GP surgeries.

Ed Garratt, Chief Executive of NHS Suffolk and North East Essex, said: “All our staff are working incredibly hard to care for our population, but we need to be smarter at providing better information to keep people healthy.

“On our new web page there is advice and support for minor ailments, how to live well with long term conditions, the various roles that exist now within primary care and the support available for people with mental health conditions.

“There is also a helpful Staying Well this Winter guide which provides contact details of a range of services that are available across Suffolk and north east Essex.

“We will keep this information up to date and I would, therefore, strongly encourage everyone to use this web page as a helpful resource.”

Dr Richard West from Woolpit Health Centre in Bury St Edmunds welcomed the launch of the page.

He said: “Many ailments and illnesses can be treated at home such as coughs and colds, sore throats and minor cuts and grazes.

“It is always advisable to keep a stock of medicines such as paracetamol and supplies of plasters and antiseptic at home.

“Pharmacies can also help with minor health problems or if you want advice. Pharmacists are also trained medical professionals who can advise on the best treatment for common heath conditions such as tummy troubles, aches and pains, constipation, diarrhoea and eye irritation and, providing you do not have symptoms of coronavirus, you can walk in without an appointment.”

A list of pharmacies across Suffolk and north east Essex is available – Find a pharmacy – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Dr Angela Tillett, Chief Medical Officer at ESNEFT, said: “The best way you can help us this winter is by having your covid booster and flu jabs. We are very grateful to all our communities for protecting themselves, their families and the NHS by doing this.”

Sue Wilkinson, chief nurse at West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Like most trusts across the country, during the winter months a higher number of patients are seen in our hospitals and by our community teams.

“We know that with the colder weather, there are more chances of people becoming ill, but by utilising the website created by NHS Suffolk and North East Essex, it can help ensure you receive the right care in the right place, in a timely and safe way. “If you or your loved ones are feeling unwell, we urge you to contact 111 in the first instance. In an emergency, our highly dedicated and skilled teams are always here for you.”