In this issue:
Do you agree?
Last week we shared our interim report from mid-June. All the information was taken from our COVID-19 survey results so far. Tameside and Glossop Clinical Commissioning Group asked us about people's experiences of using their GP during lockdown. They also asked what people would like to see happening in the future, and how technology might play a part in that. Here is a copy of the brief report we provided, based on survey data received up to 24 June 2020. It can be found at www.healthwatchtameside.co.uk/sites/default/files/gp_access_and_technology_as_at_24.6.20_from_covid-19_survey.pdf There is mixed feedback about how technology could be used in the future. Some people are keen to carry on with telephone and video consultations instead of visiting a GP practice. Others do not like this type of appointment, or do not have the equipment needed. Let us know what would work for you, and your extended family (from the youngest to the oldest) by completing the survey at www.healthwatchtameside.co.uk/covid-19-survey We want as many people as possible to 'Have their say'. Please pass on the link to your friends and family. The more voices we hear, the stronger our message to commissioners and providers of services can be. Know someone who would like a paper version of the survey? Please get in touch on 0161 667 2526 or email info@healthwatchtameside.co.uk with contact address details. We will post a survey, with a FREEPOST envelope for return of the completed survey. We can also complete the survey over the phone, if people would prefer that. Thank you. Healthwatch Tameside annual report Each year we have to produce a report by the end of June, as do all the other Healthwatch organisations in the country. This was submitted, and a copy is available to read on the publications page of our website Have a look at what we achieved during 2019/20. Zero Suicide Alliance training
Zero Suicide Alliance have a range of awareness training options, which provide a better understanding of the signs to look out for and the skills required to approach someone who is struggling, whether that be through social isolation or suicidal thoughts.
See their website for more information www.zerosuicidealliance.com/training
NICE advisory committees NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) have a number of committees which include members of the public. They are looking for people to join the diagnostics advisory committee. They are looking for people with experience of diagnostics and an understanding of the issues important to patients, people using services, unpaid carers, communities and the public. For more information see their website www.nice.org.uk/get-involved/our-committees/join-a-committee/lay-member--diagnostics-advisory-committee
COVID-19 (coronavirus) guidance With all the changes that are still being announced, it can be hard to keep up-to-date. Here are some trusted websites you can look at, to get information: Tameside Mental Health - www.tameside.gov.uk/coronavirus/mentalhealth Tameside Council website - www.tameside.gov.uk/coronavirus If you have further queries, or need help while self-isolating or shielding, the number to ring is 0161 342 8355. Tameside & Glossop Clinical Commissioning Group - www.tamesideandglossopccg.org/news/covid-19 NHS website - www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/ Healthwatch England - www.healthwatch.co.uk/ Action Together - support and information to voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations can be found on their website www.actiontogether.org.uk/covid-19 This link also includes information about volunteering - Action Together are co-ordinating the volunteer response in Tameside.
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