Hertfordshire Health Matters

Tuesday 06 April 2021

National COVID-19 vaccination updates

Despite constraints in vaccination supply during April, people who are eligible for the vaccine can still book their first dose appointment if they have not done so already. Eligible people include those aged 50+ and those at moderate or high risk from coronavirus. Appointments can be booked online at https://bit.ly/2Nun0Ko or by ringing 119.

If you have been invited by your GP to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and you don't have an appointment booked, please make an appointment without delay. Vaccination provides the best protection against COVID-19.

If your second dose appointment is coming up soon, remind yourself of your appointment details - it's very important that you attend to ensure you have maximum protection from the virus. Please spread the word by reminding loved ones who also have an appointment due soon too.

Also, plan your journey carefully. While we are now in Spring, wear layers if it’s a chilly day and wear a top that allows the vaccinator to access the top of your arm easily. Follow social distancing guidelines, wear a face covering unless you are exempt, and arrive for the vaccination at the allotted time, not in advance.

More information on vaccine eligibility can be found here: https://covid.healthierfuture.org.uk/, with FAQs found here: https://covid.healthierfuture.org.uk/vaccination-faqs. You can also access easy-read materials here: https://www.healthierfuture.org.uk/covid/coronavirus-information-for-people-with-learning-disabilities.

Share views on the COVID-19 vaccine

Healthwatch Hertfordshire is an independent champion for people who use health and social care services, and has been running a survey to get feedback on residents' experience of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Both those who have and have not had their vaccination(s) can respond through one of two surveys, which can be accessed here: https://www.healthwatchhertfordshire.co.uk/news/2021-02-16/coronavirus-vaccine-share-your-thoughts.

Please do take part if you have not done so already - by sharing your views, you are helping local NHS services understand you better and improve things where needed. The survey closes on the 11 May.

Shaping up this May

If you are thinking about weight management and would like some free support to help you on your journey, join one of Watford FC CSE Trust's 12-week programmes.

Across 12 90-minute sessions, the focus is on learning about food and increasing physical activity in a manageable and effective way for your lifestyle. Each session blends education with a full body workout, including team games. As the course is completely free, all you need to do is turn up and put in the effort!

To register your interest visit https://shapeupherts.com or email rhys.ratcliffe@watfordfc.com.

Is stress on your mind?

April is Stress Awareness Month - a national, cooperative effort aimed at informing people about the dangers of stress, successful coping strategies and harmful misconceptions about stress.

Whilst stress has always been recognised as one of our greatest public health challenges, the past year has put an additional level of strain on our wellbeing and this difficult and uncertain time can be stressful. It’s therefore really important everyone recognises their own stress, understand how to manage it, and be aware of support available when needed.

Every Mind Matters is an NHS-led campaign to help you manage and maintain your mental health. A series of articles with advice on how to help manage your wellbeing, as well as resources and practical support available, can be found here: https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/ and you can also find some helpful videos here on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NHSwebsite/videos/every-mind-matters-the-importance-of-sleep/455448782168590/

Plan your future working in healthcare

A number of interactive e-placements for students interested in a career in healthcare, or adults who are considering a career change are currently being offered by the NHS Talent Academy.

While face-to-face work experience remains unavailable, more opportunities will follow in the coming months. There are currently placements in these careers:

- Nursing
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational Therapy

The placements are free to access and available to people aged 14 and over. Applicants need to register for a free NHS Talent Academy account and apply for the placement. More information here: https://academy.healthierfuture.org.uk/work-experience-and-volunteering.

Copyright © 2021 NHS East and North Hertfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group, All rights reserved.

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.