The NHS wants to make it easier and safer for patients to get the right treatment when they need it, without waiting a long time to be seen in A&E. Find out what this means for you and your loved ones. How does NHS 111 work? If you have an  urgent but not life-threatening health problem , you can now contact NHS 111 to find out if you need to go to A&E. NHS 111 can book an appointment at your local A&E or emergency department. This time will be a rough guide for when you will get seen. This allows the NHS to better manage patient flow and overcrowding in the A&E. With the aim for people to get seen sooner.  Your NHS 111 advisor or clinician could also make you a direct appointment with a GP, Pharmacist or Urgent Treatment Centre. They can also give you the advice you need without using another service. What will this mean for you? If your condition is not life-threatening, NHS 111 may direct you to a more appropriate service or one that can see you sooner. You may also be asked to wait at home until the emergency department is ready to see you, avoiding a long wait in A&E for you and helping to prevent overcrowding. If you need an urgent face-to-face assessment or treatment, NHS 111 can arrange this immediately.  No one who turns up in A&E should be turned away or asked to call NHS 111. How do you use NHS 111? You, or someone on your behalf, can  contact NHS 111 either online or by phone  24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is free to use, including from a mobile phone. Call 111 NHS 111 online What should you do if you have a life-threatening emergency? If you or a loved one has a life-threatening emergency, you should  call 999  or go straight to your nearest emergency department. Examples of an emergency are: Loss of consciousness Acute confused state and fits that are not stopping Chest pain Breathing difficulties Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped Severe allergic reactions Severe burns or scalds Stroke If you have been asked to wait at home until your appointment by NHS 111 and your condition changes, call 111 again. If you have been asked to wait at home by NHS 111 and you become seriously ill, call an ambulance. Can I still walk into A&E? If you do not want to use NHS 111 first, you can still walk into A&E for treatment. Patients who need emergency treatment will be seen first. If your health condition is not urgent, you may need to wait elsewhere or be asked to return for a later appointment to help manage waiting times. A medical professional at A&E will assess you and may direct you to a different service if appropriate. If you do not want to be seen by another service, you can continue to wait in A&E. No one who turns up to A&E in person should be turned away and told to call NHS 111 instead. If this has happened to you or someone you know, tell us in our  short online survey  or contact us . Do you receive ongoing medical treatment from the hospital? If you have an ongoing medical problem which you manage by going straight to A&E when you're ill, It might be better for you to try and contact the hospital specialists who look after you before you go to A&E. Some patients with complicated medical problems need to be looked after in places other than A&E, particularly if you are vulnerable to infection. But, if you are extremely ill, go to your nearest emergency department or call an ambulance. What should you do if you require support for communication needs? You can tell the call handler that you need an interpreter. Call 18001 111 on a text phone or using the Next Generation Text (NGT) Lite app on your smartphone, tablet or computer. Use the NHS 111 British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter service if you’re hard of hearing or deaf and want to use the phone service. You could ask a loved one, friend or carer to make your communications needs known to the health professional so you can clearly communicate your health issues. How else can NHS 111 help me? NHS 111 helps people get the right physical and mental health advice and treatment when they urgently need it. A specialist health advisor will assess your health needs, give advice, refer you to the most appropriate care service or send an ambulance in case of an emergency. Depending on where you live or the services available in your area, NHS 111 can also be used to book same-day appointments at local pharmacists, GPs and Urgent Care Centres, so you can get the right type of treatment. If they cannot make you an appointment, they will direct you to the best service to meet your health needs. Nurses, GPs and paramedics play a large role within NHS 111 and may be able to give you the advice or treatment you need without accessing another service.

Together with NHS Somerset, we are shining a spotlight on patient and family engagement for safer care across Somerset for World Patient Safety Day on 17 September. Patients and families should be involved at every level of health and care to help NHS Somerset plan to make services better. In June 2023, NHS Somerset appointed two Patient Safety Partners (PSPs) to support Somerset’s journey to improve the way patients are involved to help keep others safe. The PSPs, who have a wealth of experience, are hosted by us, the county’s independent health and social care champion. The PSP’s will: have oversight of all patient and public feedback gathered by us, and use this to gain insight and report on issues relating to patient safety; become active members of NHS Somerset’s safety and quality committees to ensure the voice of patients is heard; and be involved in patient safety improvement projects within Somerset. To find out more about the role of PSPs, visit: NHS England » Framework for involving patients in patient safety “Patient and family engagement is one of NHS Somerset’s priorities in developing safer health and care systems in Somerset. Safe care depends on the full involvement of patients and families as users of health and care services at every level and requires a shift from care designed for patients to care designed with patients. We are pleased to be able to fund two Patient Safety Partner roles to help ensure the voices of patients in Somerset are heard.” Emma Savage, NHS Somerset Deputy Director of Quality and Improvement Our Somerset PSPs are passionate about their new roles using insight gathered from local people to help Somerset NHS deliver safe, quality healthcare. “Having recently retired from the NHS after almost 50 years’ service, I am privileged in being selected to undertake this role, that will ensure that patient safety is the golden thread which runs through all the processes and procedures that the healthcare services within Somerset provides. By working in partnership with patients, their families, carers and professionals to identify and assist in problem solving the issues of patient and staff  safety, ensuring that the provision of healthcare is safer within the complexities of today’s health service.” Glenys, Patient Safety Partner. “I look forward to representing the patient voice in discussions around the health and social care services in Somerset and to providing that necessary reminder that patient safety must underpin every decision made. I have worked in the fields of health and social care for almost 30 years and I live in Yeovil with my family.” Claire, Patient Safety Partner Share your views It’s easy to share your experience with us about patient safety or any aspect of health and social care, and this can remain anonymous. Freephone:  0800 999 1286 info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk

Each day 6,000 people become carers. Looking after a loved one can be physically and emotionally exhausting so it's vital that you get the support you need. Find out how you can make sure you look after yourself. Some people become carers overnight. When somebody has an accident or is taken ill, they can suddenly need support from those around them. For others, it can happen gradually, such as when parents cannot manage independently, or a partner's health deteriorates. Only some people realise that they have become a carer. The gradual development of a mental or physical health condition can see someone's needs build over time and their loved one slipping into the role of carer without acknowledging its impact on their lives. Looking after yourself: top tips Take time to be compassionate to yourself. Be honest with the person that you may not know what they are going through but that you care and want to help. Find your local carers support groups – they can be vital in giving you the support you need and helping you speak to people in similar situations. For help finding a support group, email  advice@carersuk.org  or call 0808 808 7777, Monday - Friday, 9am-6pm. Make the time to do things you enjoy, such as walking the dog, joining an evening class or meeting friends. Join the Carers UK online chats - Care for a cuppa. For more information on how to join the Zoom sessions and the dates, visit the  Carers UK website Acknowledge that you may not be able to ‘fix’ the person you are caring for but that you are there to help and support them. If you are struggling, talk to your GP and tell them how your caring role impacts your health. They will be able to offer confidential advice and support. Need more help?  There are lots of charities out there to offer advice and support to carers, including:  Carers UK Carers Trust

Do you struggle to speak to your doctor about your medical concerns? You’re not alone. Take a look at our top tips to make the most of your GP appointment. Most GP appointments are just 10 minutes long. That doesn't give you much time to explain your symptoms, get a diagnosis, discuss a treatment plan, and get your questions answered. To try and get the most out of your appointment, go prepared. Plan ahead what you need to tell the doctor, don’t try to talk about too many things, and always start with the most important issue. Things to consider Before your appointment: Write down details of your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse. Write down any important questions you want to ask. During your appointment: Don’t be afraid to ask if you don’t understand something. Write things down or take a family member or friend to help you remember the details. Before you leave your appointment, make sure you understand what will happen next. Four key questions These questions can help you make the right decisions about your healthcare.  What are the benefits?  Make sure you understand the benefits to your health if you agree to the procedure/treatments.   What are the risks?  You should be fully informed about the effects of this decision, both short and long term. Take time to consider your care after your treatment and how you'll manage this.   Are there any alternatives?  Make sure you're aware of all the options, so you can decide if a different option better suits your healthcare needs.   What if I do nothing?  Remember that just because treatment is available, it doesn't mean it's right for you. Make sure you fully understand the impact on your health if you do nothing, and the effect of time on your condition.   What to ask your doctor If you'd like to know more about what questions you can ask your doctor to get the most out of your consultation, take a look at the comprehensive list developed by NHS Choices.  Easy Read information Easy Health have developed Easy Read leaflets to help you get through your appointment.  Going to the doctor Questions to ask when going to the doctor

In a post-pandemic world where the cost-of-living crisis is challenging for many of us, prioritising our mental health and wellbeing is necessary. One in four people in the UK suffers from a mental health condition. With everything going on in our daily lives, awareness of our mental health and how to care for ourselves or others is essential. Why is looking after your mental health important? We know how to care for our physical health and what to do when we're unwell or injured. So, we should take the same approach to mental health when we're not feeling quite ourselves. We can do a lot for our mental health and overall wellbeing. Knowing some of the symptoms of depression and anxiety is half the battle, and identifying them can help determine our next steps in deciding what care and support we need. It’s important that we should seek professional support where and when self-care hasn't been effective. What signs should we look out for? Depression and anxiety can present physically and psychologically. While mental health conditions are more common than you may think, not everyone will suffer the same symptoms or experience mental health issues in the same way. Here’s what to look out for: Persistent low mood. Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Significant weight gain or loss. Increased or decreased appetite with loss of interest in food. Changes in sleeping patterns, fatigue or low energy levels. Extreme feelings of worthlessness, guilt or worry. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions. Loss of interest in personal care, hygiene and general wellbeing. Suicidal thoughts. How can I take care of my mental health? Looking after our mental health all year round is vital. It’s normal to feel affected by changing seasons and weather, but it’s important to look after our mental health no matter the weather. Here are some ways you can lift your spirits throughout the year: Breathe.  Experiencing periods of depression and heightened anxiety often leaves us on edge and tense. We should pause and take several slow, deep breaths, allowing ourselves a moment of calm and a chance to reset.  Find time for yourself . Depression and anxiety can be isolating, so spending time alone can be the last thing we want to do. But it’s important that we try to do things that have made us happy before. Whether you take time to get back into a hobby that has fallen by the wayside or indulge in some self-care, take time for yourself.  Keep active.  Low moods and energy levels leave us wanting to stay in bed or curl up on a sofa, but exercise releases endorphins. You do not need to overexert yourself or spend hours exercising. If you can, something as simple as a short walk is all you need to kick-start your recovery.  Get outdoors.  Connecting with nature has been proven to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The Mental Health Foundation found that spending time in nature can bring consolation in times of stress, reduce feelings of social isolation and effectively protect our mental health.  Sleep well.  It can be hard to switch off when we're anxious or depressed, but sleep is the body's way of healing and recovering. Rest supports our mental and physical wellbeing. Consider creating a bedtime routine for yourself to encourage a good night's sleep, avoiding caffeine after three o'clock and screens up to an hour before bed.  Eat well.  When we experience periods of depression and anxiety, we should avoid recreational drugs and alcohol and cut back on ''unhealthy'' foods, swapping them instead for healthier, nutrient-dense foods that will provide the nutrients and vitamins our bodies need for healing and energy. Stay connected.  Make sure you keep in contact with friends and loved ones – even if this is via text or phone. Reaching out for extra support For some, self-care is an effective way of managing their mental health and overall wellbeing, but sometimes, we need extra support. There is no shame in asking for help. Should you need additional support to look after your mental health and wellbeing this winter, why not consider the following: Friends and family.  If you’re not sure where to begin, reaching out to friends and family is a great place to start. A problem shared is a problem halved. Workplace support.  Mental wellbeing in the workplace has become more of a priority, with many organisations offering mental health support services to their staff. If you don’t want to confide in a loved one because you feel guilty or embarrassed, using a workplace mental health support scheme could be the right first step. Your GP.  They may be able to offer you support and treatment. They can also refer you if appropriate or recommend local options. Mental health professionals.  You may be able to self-refer to the NHS in some areas. This means you don’t need to see your GP first. You can also access therapists through certain charities or privately. Charity helplines and support groups . See the websites listed below for some examples. While mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can leave us feeling estranged and isolated from friends and family, the reality is that our friends and family are a support network we can reach out to for help when we're not quite ourselves. Remember it's ok not to be ok and that you're not alone. Need more support? Take a look at these websites for extra support: Samaritans   Mental health - NHS ( www.nhs.uk ) 15 Symptoms Of Depression And Anxiety | BetterHelp Looking after your mental health | Mental Health Foundation Self-care for mental health problems - Mind

With more than thirty recognised symptoms of menopause and growing awareness of the impact on day-to-day life, it can help to know what to look out for and what support is available. Around 13 million women are currently perimenopausal or menopausal in the UK. Transgender, non-binary and intersex people can also experience menopause or similar symptoms. However, research shows many people don't know all the symptoms associated with menopause or perimenopause, what treatments are available or what support they can access.  What's the difference between perimenopause and menopause? Menopause is a natural part of the ageing process. Perimenopause, also known as menopausal transition, is the start of this change.  During this transition, your body's production of oestrogen and progesterone drops off, so you may notice a change in your periods. You may also experience some symptoms of menopause. Perimenopause often happens between the ages of 45 and 55.  Some people may go through this transition in their thirties, known as  early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency  (POI). Sometimes, medical conditions or treatments can cause early menopause.   You enter the menopause once you've gone twelve months without a period. What are the symptoms of perimenopause?  Some of the symptoms you may get:  Periods that are heavier or lighter than usual  Hot flashes, nausea, or dizzy spells  Vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex Needing to urinate more frequently What are the symptoms of menopause?  You will be in menopause after twelve months without a period. As well as symptoms you may have during perimenopause, you may also experience:  Changes to your mood and low self-esteem  Problems with memory or concentration (brain fog) Difficulty sleeping and night sweats Palpitations Headaches or migraines more frequently or worse than usual Muscle aches and joint pains Changes to your body shape and weight gain Skin changes, including dry and itchy skin Reduced sex drive or discomfort during sex Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) Help paying for hormone therapy As of April 1, 2023, many forms of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are covered under an  HRT Prepayment Prescription Certificate   What HRT treatments are available?   There are different ways to manage menopause symptoms. The most common is HRT, which can be:  Tablets   Skin patches  Oestrogen gel  Implants  Vaginal oestrogen  Testosterone gel Other treatment options Other treatments are available to help with specific symptoms of menopause. As your body changes, you may need to  adjust your habits, routines or lifestyle  to manage symptoms and protect your physical and mental wellbeing.  Discuss your options with your healthcare provider or support network to ensure you  find the right HRT treatment .  Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Alongside healthcare staff, it's important to have a personal support network of friends, family and colleagues who can help you get through this phase of life. Want more support?  If you want to know more about what you should expect from perimenopause and menopause, what support is available to you and advice on managing symptoms, check out these helpful resources:  NHS – Help and Support: Menopause   Menopause Support    The Menopause Charity – Menopause Support and Advice   NHS – Early Menopause   Age UK - Menopause symptoms and finding support

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

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