A jumble of white tiles with black letters on them
NHS jargon and acronyms explained
The NHS sometimes uses jargon and acronyms that can be difficult to make sense of. We've found a selection of reliable resources that explain, in plain English, many of the terms that you may see used in NHS correspondence, online, or in the media.
28 October 2021
Image of a nurse. Text reads: help us help you get the care you need
People with learning disabilities and their carers are entitled to a free flu vaccination
Preventing flu can be particularly important for people with a learning disability. Flu can lead to pneumonia and sepsis, which many people with a learning disability are much more vulnerable to than the general population.
21 October 2021
A pink highlighter being used to tick boxes on a list
How to help someone get the most out of their learning disability Annual Health Check
People with a learning disability may find it hard to know when they are unwell, or to tell someone about it. We've put together a checklist to help people with a learning disability and their carers make the most of their annual health check.
6 October 2021
A woman in a dentist's chair, being shown an x-ray by a male dentist
Advice for NHS Dental Contractors: updating your NHS website profile
Many dental practices are not updating their information on the NHS website. The Department of Health and Social Care, NHS England, and Healthwatch are urging dental contractors to review their profiles, to help patients find dental care more easily.
27 September 2021
A woman drinking a cup of tea
Accessing wellbeing and mental health support in North Somerset
Most of us will need support with our wellbeing at some point, but if you're struggling, it can be difficult to know where to go for advice. North Somerset Council have put together a booklet to ensure you can access the help you need.
6 August 2021
A doctor with a stethoscope listening to a patient's chest
Face-to-face appointments: know your choices
Digital appointments don't work for everyone. Many health care services have moved online, but you can still request a face-to-face appointment. Here's what you can expect from the NHS if you need to be seen in person.
6 August 2021
Bar charts with someone using a pen to point to the document
Why do we need to collect demographic information when you share your views with us?
When you share your views with us, we ask for demographic information such as your gender, sexual orientation, age, and ethnicity. Here's why we collect this information, and what we use it for.
18 June 2021
NS Pharmacy Rino
Pharmacy spotlight: Day Lewis in Nailsea
Pharmacies offer a wealth of health and care services and popping in for advice might prevent the need to call 111 or visit your GP
19 May 2021
Alex Manners talks
How to cope with lockdown if you have autism
Radio presenter and Asperger's champion Alex Manners spoke to Healthwatch ahead of his talk organised by Bristol Autism Support tomorrow (April 7th). His tips for coping with the pressures of Covid-19? "Find a project and focus on the next few days."
6 April 2021
Jemma, a white woman with brown hair, smiling
Overcoming concerns about the Covid-19 vaccine if you have a learning disability
One of our volunteers, Jemma Ballinger, says while it is great news that people on the learning disability register will be prioritised to have the vaccine, they will still often need a lot of reassurance and understanding to receive it.
26 February 2021
Bristol Area Lead Acomo sitting at a table
Are you an unpaid carer? Register with a GP so you don't miss your COVID-19 vaccine
It's always important to be registered with a GP - but it's particularly important if you're caring for someone vulnerable. If you're not registered, you may not get your COVID-19 vaccination at the right time.
9 February 2021
Man in a wheelchair being helped into a bus
Do you need help getting to your COVID-19 vaccination?
Do you need help with arranging transport for your COVID-19 injection? Have you been contacted about your vaccination but don't have a way of getting to your surgery? Our latest pamphlet contains all the information you need to get there safely.
29 January 2021