Practice News

 NHS Patient Champion Event

**Thursday 3 September 2026 | 2:00pm–3:00pm**

Sowe Valley PCN is hosting an **NHS Patient Champion Event** for patient representatives, together with our local Digital Champion Team.

The session will take place at **CNWSC, Binley Road, CV3 1HB**, and will provide information, training and support to help patient representatives confidently use and promote the NHS App.

 What will be covered?

* NHS App features
* Common patient queries
* Troubleshooting support
* Step-by-step guidance on helping patients use the NHS App

**Book your place:** [Book your place](https://shorturl.at/6QCHI?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

We encourage patient representatives who would like to develop their knowledge and confidence in supporting others with the NHS App to attend.

Housebound Patients and Home Blood Tests

A patient is considered **housebound** if they are unable to leave their home environment due to physical and/or psychological illness.

Home visits, including **community nursing visits for blood tests**, are only available for patients who meet the housebound criteria. Patients who are able to leave their home independently or with minimal assistance to attend appointments, go shopping, or access social, recreational, or other community activities will not usually be eligible for a home visit.

Eligibility is assessed on an individual basis by a clinician, taking into account the patient’s medical condition and circumstances. Referrals to the Community Nursing Service will only be accepted for patients who meet the housebound definition.

Patients who do not meet the criteria but require a blood test can arrange a **private home blood testing service** independently. Any private provider must be contacted and arranged directly by the patient, and any associated costs will be the patient’s responsibility.

Turn On NHS App Notifications – Don't Miss Important Messages

To help you stay up to date with your healthcare, we encourage all patients to **turn on notifications for the NHS App**.

Our practice now sends most patient correspondence through the NHS App messaging service, including:

* Appointment reminders
* Test result messages (where appropriate)
* Important updates from the practice
* Letters and other practice correspondence

If notifications are switched off, there is a high chance you could miss an important message or appointment reminder.

Please check your phone or tablet settings and ensure that **notifications are enabled for the NHS App** so you receive an alert whenever we send you a message.

Keeping notifications switched on is the easiest way to make sure you don't miss important information about your care.

Thank you for helping us communicate with you more efficiently.

Don't Suffer This Hay Fever Season – Get Help from Your Local Pharmacy

Hay Fever Season – Advice for Patients

Hay fever can be very troublesome during the spring and summer months, causing symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, and nasal congestion.

Managing Hay Fever

• Keep windows and doors closed when pollen counts are high.
• Apply petroleum jelly around your nostrils to help trap pollen.
• Shower, wash your hair, and change clothes after spending time outdoors.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to help protect your eyes from pollen.
• Check local pollen forecasts and try to limit outdoor activities when pollen levels are very high.
• Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops are available without a prescription.

Where Can I Buy Hay Fever Medication?

Hay fever treatments can be purchased from:

• Local pharmacies
• Supermarkets
• High street health and beauty retailers
• Online pharmacies and retailers

Pharmacists can advise on the most suitable treatment for your symptoms, including antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays, and eye drops.

NHS Prescribing of Hay Fever Medication

Please note that hay fever treatments are not routinely prescribed on the NHS for uncomplicated seasonal hay fever.

NHS prescriptions for treatments such as antihistamines or nasal sprays may only be issued where there is an associated diagnosed condition, such as allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis (sinusitis), or another condition that meets local NHS prescribing criteria.

Patients with uncomplicated hay fever are advised to purchase treatments over the counter, as many effective and low-cost options are readily available.

If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or not responding to treatment, please contact the practice for further advice.

Self-Care Tips

• Start taking hay fever medication before symptoms become severe if you know your usual allergy season.
• Keep car windows closed and use pollen filters where available.
• Avoid drying clothes outside during high pollen days.
• Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth to reduce pollen indoors.

If you are unsure which treatment is best for you, please speak to your local pharmacist for advice.

Disposal of Clinical and Hazardous Waste

Please do not bring clinical or hazardous waste items to the surgery for disposal.

Examples may include:

• Sharps containers (needles and lancets)

• Clinical waste generated at home

• Hazardous household materials that require specialist disposal

Coventry residents should arrange collection or disposal through Coventry City Council. The Council provides information and services for the safe disposal of household clinical and hazardous waste, including collection arrangements where applicable. Patients can request assistance online through the Council's portal or contact Customer Services by telephone to arrange appropriate collection and disposal. Telephone bookings and enquiries can be made on 08085 834333.

For further information, please visit:

Coventry City Council – Household Clinical Waste Disposal

Thank you for helping us maintain a safe environment for patients and staff.

Our Practice Recognised Among Coventry's Top GP Surgeries

We are delighted to share the results of the latest NHS GP Patient Survey, which highlight the excellent care and service provided by our practice team.

The survey, which gathers feedback from patients across England about their experiences of general practice services, showed very positive results for our practice. We are particularly proud to have been recognised among the top-performing GP surgeries in Coventry based on the survey findings.

The full survey results for our practice can be viewed here:

**NHS GP Patient Survey Results:**
https://gp-patient.co.uk/patientexperience/results?code=M86046

We were also featured in local media following the publication of the survey results:

**Coventry Telegraph Article:**
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/10-best-gp-surgeries-coventry-050000506.html

Thank You to Our Patients

We would like to thank all patients who took the time to complete the survey. Your feedback is invaluable and helps us understand what we are doing well and where we can continue to improve.

The results reflect the dedication and hard work of our entire team, who strive every day to provide safe, compassionate and high-quality care to our patients.

Areas Identified for Improvement

While we are extremely pleased with the overall results, we have reviewed the areas where our scores were lower than some other practices.

 Seeing a Preferred GP

As a GP training practice, we play an important role in supporting and developing future GPs. Patients may therefore be offered appointments with Foundation Year Doctors (FY2s) or GP Registrars as part of their care.

Patients can be assured that trainee doctors work closely with experienced GPs. Cases are regularly discussed and reviewed with supervising clinicians, ensuring patients receive safe, high-quality care while helping to train the next generation of doctors.

Continuity of care remains a priority for our practice, and we continue to support patients in seeing clinicians who are familiar with their medical history whenever possible.

Extended Hours Appointments

The survey also highlighted lower scores relating to appointments offered during extended hours at alternative locations.

Our priority is to provide as many appointments as possible within our own practice. We believe patients benefit from being seen by a clinical team who know them, have access to their records and can provide ongoing continuity of care.

We therefore focus on maximising appointment availability at the surgery before considering the use of extended access appointments at other locations. This approach allows us to maintain the high standards of personalised care that our patients value.

Looking Ahead

We are proud of the positive feedback received and grateful for the trust our patients place in us. We remain committed to listening to patient feedback, improving access to services and continuing to provide high-quality care for our local community.

Thank you for your continued support.

Hot Weather Advice – Staying Safe During a Heatwave

The UK is currently experiencing very hot weather. High temperatures can affect anyone, but young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with long-term health conditions are at greater risk of becoming unwell.

Stay Cool

• Stay indoors or in the shade during the hottest part of the day (11am–3pm).
• Keep curtains or blinds closed in rooms that face the sun.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing.
• Use a fan if available and take cool showers or baths.

Keep Hydrated

• Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and limit caffeinated drinks.
• Carry water with you when outdoors.

Look After Vulnerable People

• Check on elderly relatives, neighbours, and anyone who may struggle to keep cool.
• Ensure babies, young children, and pets have access to shade and water.

Medicines and Health Conditions

• Continue taking prescribed medicines unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.
• Some medicines may increase sensitivity to heat or affect hydration. If you have concerns, please speak to your pharmacist or GP.

When to Seek Medical Help

Contact NHS 111 or seek medical advice if you or someone else develops:

• Dizziness or fainting
• Severe headache
• Confusion or unusual drowsiness
• Persistent vomiting
• Signs of dehydration (dark urine, dry mouth, extreme thirst)

Call 999 immediately if someone becomes unconscious, has a seizure, or shows signs of severe heatstroke.

Help Us Keep Appointments Running Smoothly

If you are attending the surgery:

• Bring a bottle of water with you.
• Allow extra travel time.
• Inform reception if you feel unwell while waiting for your appointment.

Thank you for helping us keep our community safe during the hot weather. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and look after those who may be more vulnerable. ☀️💧

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) Prescribing Information

We are aware that many patients are requesting treatment with Mounjaro.

Please be advised that at this practice, we can only prescribe Mounjaro in line with current NHS and NICE guidance. At present, this medication is only licensed and commissioned for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes in patients who meet specific clinical criteria.

We are unable to prescribe Mounjaro for weight loss or for patients who do not meet the approved eligibility criteria.

If you are unsure whether you are eligible, please discuss this with a clinician during a routine appointment. Requests that do not meet prescribing criteria will not be fulfilled.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Regarding Medication Disposal

Please be advised that the GP surgery is unable to accept or dispose of any unwanted or unused medication.

All medication that requires disposal must be returned to a pharmacy, where it can be safely and appropriately handled.

We kindly ask patients not to bring any medication that is no longer required into the surgery, as we are unable to process it.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Happy Retirement Valerie Wright (Practice Manager)

After an incredible 10 years of dedicated service, we say a heartfelt farewell to Valerie Wright as she retires from her role as Practice Manager.

Valerie has been at the very heart of our practice, guiding the team with warmth, professionalism, and unwavering commitment. Her leadership has helped shape not only the way we work, but the welcoming and supportive environment our patients and staff value so deeply.

Over the past decade, Valerie has been instrumental in navigating change, improving services, and ensuring the highest standards of care. Her attention to detail, calm approach, and genuine compassion have made a lasting impact on everyone who has had the pleasure of working with her or being supported by her.

Beyond her professional achievements, Valerie will be remembered for her kindness, her sense of humour, and her ability to bring people together. She has been a trusted colleague, a mentor, and a friend to many.

While we will miss her greatly, we are so pleased that Valerie now has the opportunity to enjoy a well-earned retirement, filled with time for family, relaxation, and new adventures.

On behalf of the entire practice, we thank Valerie for her outstanding contribution and wish her a long, happy, and fulfilling retirement.

With our very best wishes,
The Practice Team

Retirement of Dr Kazmi

We would like to share the news that Dr Kazmi will be retiring on 31 March 2026, after an incredible 25 years of dedicated service at the practice.

Dr Kazmi has been a much-valued member of our team, providing compassionate care, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to her patients over the years. She has built strong and lasting relationships within our community, and her presence will be greatly missed by both colleagues and patients alike.

We know many of you will want to join us in thanking her for her years of service and wishing her all the very best for a long, happy, and well-deserved retirement.

Ongoing care

We would also like to reassure patients that Dr Kazmi will still be working with us on Mondays for the time being, so you may still see her in the practice. Please don’t worry your care will continue as normal, and our team remains here to support you.

Thank you, Dr Kazmi, for everything you have given to the practice and our patients over the past 25 years. You will always be part of our practice family. 💙

Practice News: “Only Order What You Need” Campaign

We are supporting a new NHS campaign called “Only Order What You Need”, which aims to help reduce medicines waste and improve patient safety.

Why is this important?

Ordering more medication than needed can lead to:

• Medicines going unused and being wasted
• Increased costs to the NHS
• Potential safety risks from storing excess medication at home

What we’re doing

You may notice campaign materials displayed in the practice, including posters and information in waiting areas. These provide helpful advice on ordering your medication responsibly.

We will also be sharing information through:

• Our website
• Patient communications (text messages and emails)
• Digital screens within the practice

Patient text messages

As part of this campaign, we will be sending text messages to some patients during March 2026 with reminders and guidance about ordering medicines. These messages are part of an NHS initiative and are designed to support you in managing your prescriptions safely.

How you can help

• Only order the medicines you need
• Check what you already have at home before requesting repeats
• Speak to us or your pharmacist if you have questions about your medication

Reducing waste helps ensure NHS resources are used effectively for everyone.

Gluten-Free Prescriptions – Important Update

From 31 March 2026, gluten-free foods are no longer available on NHS prescription in Coventry and Warwickshire, following a decision by the local Integrated Care Board.

What does this mean?

If you have coeliac disease or a related condition, you will now need to buy gluten-free foods from shops or online rather than getting them on prescription.

Why has this changed?

This decision has been made because:

• Gluten-free products are now widely available in supermarkets
• They are significantly more expensive for the NHS to provide on prescription
• A gluten-free diet is managed through food choices rather than medication

Your care will continue

• Your diagnosis and medical care remain the same
• You should continue to follow a strict gluten-free diet, which is essential for your health

Support available

We are still here to support you. You can:

• Speak to a GP or nurse for advice
• Request a referral to a dietitian if needed
• Get guidance on naturally gluten-free foods such as rice, potatoes, meat, fish, fruit and vegetables

Exceptional circumstances

In rare situations, a GP may consider prescribing gluten-free products if there is a clear clinical need.

AAA Screening – Men Aged 65 and Over

The NHS offers a free Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) screening to help detect dangerous swelling of the main blood vessel in the abdomen. If left untreated, an AAA can be life-threatening, but early detection allows for monitoring and timely treatment.

Who is eligible?

• All men aged 65 will receive an NHS invitation automatically.

• Men over 65 who have not been screened before can request a scan at any time.

If you are eligible and have not yet been screened, we encourage you to arrange an appointment.

What is an AAA?

An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm is an enlargement of the main blood vessel in the abdomen.
It usually causes no symptoms, but if it grows and ruptures, it can be fatal.
A simple ultrasound scan can detect it early.

How is the scan done?

• It is a quick, safe and painless ultrasound scan.

• Takes 10–15 minutes.

• You will receive your result straight away.

How to Book Your AAA Scan (Coventry & Warwickshire)

If you are over 65 or missed your appointment, you can request a scan directly:

Coventry and Warwickshire AAA Screening Programme
📞 01788 663428
📧 aaascreeningprogramme@uhcw.nhs.uk
🌐 www.nhs.uk/aaa

You can also speak to our practice reception team for help with booking or further information.

Housebound Status – Copsewood Medical Centre

🏡 Housebound Status – Copsewood Medical Centre

At Copsewood Medical Centre, we provide home-based services such as home visits and community blood tests only for patients who are genuinely housebound.

A housebound patient is someone who is unable to leave their home at all due to physical or psychological illness, even when help is given by family, carers or transport services.

✅ If a patient can attend the surgery with help from a family member, friend, taxi or community transport, they are not classed as housebound.

🚫 Being coded as housebound when a person is able to attend the practice places extra pressure on already limited NHS resources and may delay care for patients who are truly unable to leave their homes.

💡 Why this matters

Once a patient is coded as housebound, it automatically triggers:

• Community/domiciliary blood tests

• Eligibility for home visits rather than surgery appointments

• Allocation of scarce community resources

To ensure fairness and protect care for our most vulnerable patients, this coding is used only where appropriate.

📍 Our Commitment

We will always support patients who struggle to attend appointments by:

• Offering flexible appointment times

• Advising on transport options

• Providing written support for community transport schemes where appropriate

However, home-based services will only be arranged for those who meet the true definition of being housebound.

✅ Thank you for helping us protect care for those who need it most.

If you are unsure whether you or a family member meet the criteria, please speak to a member of our care team.

Local NHS ADHD Referral Policy (Coventry & Warwickshire)

📍 Local NHS ADHD Referral Policy (Coventry & Warwickshire)

In Coventry and Warwickshire, the NHS ADHD diagnostic service is currently commissioned only for individuals aged under 25 years.

This means:

✅ We can refer patients who are under 25 via the NHS pathway, subject to clinical assessment and referral criteria.
❌ For individuals aged 25 years and over, there is no commissioned NHS ADHD diagnostic or treatment service locally, and such referrals will not be accepted.
❌ As there is no commissioned adult ADHD pathway for those aged 25+, we cannot refer you via the NHS “Right to Choose” route, as this requires an existing local commissioning framework.

Patients who were previously under CAMHS (Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services) before age 18 may occasionally transition into adult services, but only if already within the care system — new NHS referrals for age 25+ cannot currently be made.

⚠️ Private Assessments and Prescribing – Our Practice Policy

You may choose to seek an ADHD assessment privately. However, please be aware:

🔴 Our practice has taken the decision not to enter into shared care agreements with private ADHD providers.
🔴 We will not take over prescribing or monitoring ADHD medication initiated by a private clinician.
✅ If you proceed privately, all prescribing and follow-up will remain the responsibility of the private provider.

This decision has been made by the GP partners after careful consideration of safety, accountability, and the absence of NHS specialist oversight for adults aged 25+ in this locality. ADHD medications, particularly stimulant drugs, require specialist titration, regular reviews, and carefully governed risk monitoring, which cannot be supported outside a commissioned NHS pathway.

📍 What Are Your Current Options?

✅ Support We Can Provide

While we cannot arrange NHS ADHD assessment for adults aged 25+ or prescribe ADHD medication following a private diagnosis, we are still here to support your overall mental health. If you are experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, low mood, sleep disturbance, or concentration difficulties, we may be able to refer you to general mental health services or provide alternative support options.

📍 Summary

• ✅ NHS ADHD referrals are available only for those aged under 25 in Coventry & Warwickshire.

• ❌ There is no NHS ADHD pathway for adults aged 25 and over locally.

• ❌ “Right to Choose” cannot be used for ADHD referrals by those aged 25+.

• ✅ You may seek a private assessment; however,

• ❌ Our practice will not enter into shared care or take over ADHD prescribing from private providers.

• ✅ We can support you with general mental health concerns and discuss alternative NHS options where appropriate.

If you would like to discuss general support for symptoms or explore eligible referral options, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for your understanding.

Yours sincerely,

Important Update – Submitting Requests Online

From now on, all administrative and prescription requests should be submitted using our Accurx Contact Us link:

🔗 Submit a request online

This system is directly linked to your patient record, which means:

• Your request is saved securely into your medical record

• Everything is traceable and auditable

• Requests reach the right team quickly, helping us to deal with them more efficiently

Please use Accurx for the following:

• Repeat prescription – order a prescription or ask a question about your medication

• Fit (sick) note – request a medical statement about your fitness to work

• Routine care appointment – such as long-term condition reviews, medication reviews, vaccinations and screening

• Test results – ask about the results of a recent test

• Referral follow-up – query an existing referral

• Doctor’s letter – including private, insurance, or educational letters

• Other admin requests

Important

We will no longer accept requests by email.

Exceptions

We understand that not all patients can use online forms. If you have a learning disability, are elderly, have significant mental health needs, or do not have access to a mobile device or the internet, please contact the practice directly and our reception team will help you.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us make our services safer and more efficient.

Please Park Responsibly

NOTICE TO ALL PATIENTS

We have received reports of significant damage caused to a neighbour’s property by vehicles reversing or parking carelessly when visiting Copsewood Medical Centre.

We kindly request all patients to:

Park within the designated parking bays on our premises.

Take extra care when reversing or manoeuvring your vehicle.

Avoid encroaching on neighbouring properties at all times.

Your cooperation will help us maintain good relationships with our neighbours and prevent further incidents.

Thank you for your understanding and support.
Copsewood Medical Centre Management

Important Update: NHS Weight Loss Medication Availability

We would like to inform our patients that Tirzepatide (Mounjaro), a newly approved weight loss medication, is not currently available for prescription in Coventry and Warwickshire.

While this medication has been approved nationally for a select group of eligible patients, it cannot be prescribed by GPs in our area at this time.

A new local NHS obesity service is currently being developed and is expected to launch later in 2025. Once the service becomes available, we will provide patients with clear guidance on eligibility and access.

In the meantime, if you are looking for support with weight management, please contact the practice to learn more about existing lifestyle programmes and local support services.

Further information is available at:
www.happyhealthylives.uk/weight-management-drugs

🌟 Improving Access to Cancer Screening – Support for All Our Patients

At Copsewood Medical Centre, we’re committed to helping all our patients live healthier lives by ensuring equal access to cancer screening services.

Cancer screening saves lives – but not everyone finds it easy to attend or understand what’s involved. That’s why we’re sharing a new support pack developed by Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board (CWICB), packed with helpful links, videos, and advice tailored to different community needs.

🩺 What’s Included in the Pack?

The resource covers:

• Breast, Bowel & Cervical Cancer Screening – Understand the process, who should attend, and how to get support if you're worried.

• Support for the LGBTQ+ and Transgender Communities – Breaking barriers and making services inclusive.

• Help for Rural and Farming Communities – With links to Macmillan and FarmWell.

• Support for Refugees, Asylum Seekers & People with Learning Disabilities – Including easy-read and BSL-friendly guides.

• Materials in Different Languages – For those who speak English as an additional language.

These resources include videos, online tools, and downloadable leaflets to help patients prepare and feel supported.

👉 Access the full pack and links here: Happy Healthy Lives – Cancer Services

📞 Need to Speak to Someone?

We understand that sometimes, speaking to someone directly helps. You can also contact one of the local Macmillan Information and Support Centres:

📍 University Hospital Coventry:

• Mon–Fri, 8am–4pm

• 📞 024 7696 6052

• 📧 lindsay.randall4@uhcw.nhs.uk

📍 George Eliot Hospital:

• Mon–Fri, 9am–4pm

• 📞 024 7615 3201

• 📧 julie.hunt3@geh.nhs.uk

📍 Warwick and Stratford Hospitals:

• Mon–Fri, 8:30am–4pm

• 📞 01926 495321 ext. 8214

• 🌐 SWFT Cancer Services

💬 Let’s Break Barriers Together

Our goal is to ensure every patient at Copsewood Medical Centre has access to cancer screening and the support they need — no matter their background, identity, or personal circumstances.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team if you need help booking or understanding a screening appointment.

💧 Staying Safe in the Heat: Important Advice for Patients During the Heatwave

With the current heatwave, it’s important to be aware of how extreme temperatures can affect your health or that of someone you care for. Certain people are more vulnerable to the effects of heat, and we want to help you stay safe and well. Please take a moment to read the advice below.

🌡️ Who Is Most at Risk?
Some groups are particularly vulnerable in hot weather:

Older adults – especially those over 75, living alone, socially isolated, or in care homes.

People with chronic or severe illness – such as heart conditions, diabetes, breathing problems, kidney issues, Parkinson’s, or serious mental health conditions. Many medications can make it harder to manage heat, so extra care is needed (see below).

Those less able to adapt to heat – including people with Alzheimer’s, disabilities, or those who are bed-bound. Babies, young children, and people who drink excessive alcohol are also at higher risk.

Environmental and occupational risks – such as living on top floors, being homeless, or working/being active outdoors during hot periods.

🌿 Simple Ways to Stay Cool and Well
These steps can make a big difference:

Keep blinds or curtains closed during the day when the sun is strongest (usually 11am–3pm).

Open windows once it’s cooler outside than inside – ensure this is safe for your household.

Cool the air by spraying water on plants and around windows (avoid slippery surfaces). Check for local water restrictions.

Stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm.

If going outside, wear light, loose cotton clothing, a hat, thin scarf, and sunscreen. Stay in shaded areas as much as possible.

Reduce physical activity during the hottest parts of the day.

Take cool showers or baths or use a damp cloth on your neck and back. Splash cool water on your face and clothes.

Eat cool meals like salads and fruit with high water content.

Drink plenty of fluids – water or fruit juice is best. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and fizzy drinks.

If you have carers or find it hard to drink on your own, make sure your fluid intake is monitored daily.

💊 Medicines and Heat: What to Know
Certain medications can increase the risk of heat-related illness. If you take any of the following, be extra careful and consult your pharmacist or GP if unsure:

Medications causing dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
(e.g. diuretics, some antibiotics, codeine)

Those reducing kidney function
(e.g. NSAIDs, sulphonamides)

Medications affected by dehydration
(e.g. lithium, digoxin, some epilepsy medications)

Drugs that affect sweating or body temperature regulation
(e.g. anticholinergics, tricyclic antidepressants, some antihistamines, certain Parkinson’s drugs)

Those that lower blood pressure or alertness
(e.g. beta blockers, antihypertensives, sleeping tablets, some painkillers)

If you're worried that your medication may increase your risk in the heat, please don’t hesitate to contact the practice.

🧊 Look Out for Each Other
Please check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, friends, and family members regularly. Ensure they are staying cool, hydrated, and know how to stay safe in the heat.

If someone becomes confused, dizzy, excessively sweaty or stops sweating, or collapses during hot weather, call 111 or 999 immediately – they may be suffering from heatstroke.

Stay cool, stay safe, and please reach out if you need help or advice.

Your GP Practice Team

Important Notice: Submission of Clinical Samples

We have noticed that clinical samples are being posted into our practice letterbox. Please be aware that this letterbox is for letters and correspondence only.

All clinical samples must be handed directly into the surgery. A designated drop-off box is available inside the reception area for this purpose.

📍 Drop-off Location: Inside the reception area
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Please ensure you visit the surgery during opening hours to drop off your samples safely.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Copsewood Medical Centre

Copsewood Medical Centre Awarded the Disability Awareness Badge!

🌟 Copsewood Medical Centre Awarded the Disability Awareness Badge! 🌟

We are proud to announce that Copsewood Medical Centre has been awarded the prestigious Disability Awareness Badge, recognising our commitment to providing an inclusive and accessible healthcare environment for all our patients.

🏅 What This Award Means
The Disability Awareness Badge highlights our dedication to supporting patients with disabilities, ensuring equal access to healthcare, and promoting a welcoming and supportive environment. This achievement reflects:
✅ Accessible Facilities: Step-free access, accessible toilets, and clear signage to support easy navigation.
✅ Inclusive Services: Adjustments for patients with visual, hearing, or mobility impairments.
✅ Staff Training: Our team has completed disability awareness training to enhance patient support.
✅ Communication Support: Services such as large print materials, BSL interpreters, and easy-read information.

💙 Our Ongoing Commitment to Inclusion
At Copsewood Medical Centre, we believe healthcare should be accessible to everyone. This badge marks a milestone in our continuous journey to break down barriers and ensure every patient receives the care and respect they deserve.

We are always striving to improve. If you have any suggestions on how we can better support patients with disabilities, please share your feedback with us.

🙏 Thank You to Our Patients and Team
This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of our staff and the valuable input from our patients. Together, we continue to make Copsewood Medical Centre a place where everyone feels welcome and supported.

💙 Copsewood Medical Centre – Caring for All, Together.

Sharps Bins Disposal Service

🗑️ Safe Disposal of Sharps Bins – Important Information for Our Patients

If you use sharps (such as needles, syringes, or lancets) at home, it’s essential to dispose of them safely to protect yourself and others from injury or infection. Once your sharps bin is full, you can arrange a collection with your local council.

🚮 How to Dispose of Sharps Bins
In Coventry, sharps bin collections are managed by the City Council, and you must book a collection through their website.

📅 Step-by-Step Guide to Book a Collection:
Visit the Coventry City Council website: Coventry City Council – Sharps Collection (or your local council if outside Coventry)
Complete the online form to request a collection.
The council will confirm a collection date – please ensure your sharps bin is securely closed.
Leave your sharps bin at the designated location on the agreed day.

🗑️ Important Notes:
Only fully sealed, official sharps bins will be collected.
Do not place sharps in household bins or recycling bins.
This is a free service for residents.

💡 Why Dispose of Sharps Correctly?
✅ Safety: Prevents injuries and reduces the risk of infection.
✅ Environmental Protection: Ensures safe, eco-friendly disposal of medical waste.
✅ Legal Compliance: Proper disposal follows local health and safety regulations.

❓ Need Help?
If you need support with booking your collection, please contact our reception team.

Stay safe. Dispose responsibly. Thank you for helping keep our community protected.