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Location: Hillyfields Way, Winscombe. BS25 1AF

Patient participation group

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Patient participation group

Patient participation group

We are a group of volunteers from the Winscombe and Banwell medical practices, who aim to provide a link between patients and the staff at the surgery.

We are keen to hear the views of all our patients on matters of mutual interest, including those who are housebound, and to help you do this we would be happy to arrange for someone from the group to speak to you at a convenient time. Please leave your contact details at Reception.

Please Note: If you wish someone to come and see you that person will bring a letter from the practice manager verifying their identity.

Medical Matters should be covered by direct contact with your doctor.

If you have any comments or suggestions for discussion at our Patient Participation Meetings or wish to be included in the email distribution list of “virtual” PPG members please email the Practice at winscombebanwellsurgery@nhs.net

Improved Access

We are working together with other local practices to offer patients access to more appointments in the early mornings, evenings and at weekends. To find out more about these services, please contact the practice.

Group A Streptococcus - Information for families and carers of children

You may have seen reports about a higher-than-usual level of Group A streptococcus (GAS) infections in children this year, and we understand if you are concerned.

GAS is a common bacteria – lots of people carry it without being unwell.

It can cause many common mild infections, including sore throats or scarlet fever, which can be easily treated with antibiotics. 

The information below explains how it is spread, and what to look for when your child is unwell.

How is it spread?

GAS spreads by close contact with an infected person. It can be passed on through coughs and sneezes, or from a wound.

Which infections does GAS cause?

The bacteria usually causes a mild infection, producing sore throats or scarlet fever, which can be easily treated with antibiotics.

What is invasive group A strep?

This is when the bacteria gets into the bloodstream and causes serious illness – called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). These cases are very rare.

Symptoms of mild GAS infections

Symptoms of mild infections include: sore throat; fever; chills; muscle aches; and in cases of scarlet fever, a rash and a white coating on the tongue, which peels leaving the tongue red, swollen and covered in bumps

When to contact us:

– If your child is not recovering after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat, or a respiratory infection, and you are concerned they are becoming more unwell

– If your child is drinking much less (50% less) than normal

– If your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more, or shows other signs of dehydration

– If your baby is under three months and has a temperature of 38C, or is three to six months old and has a temperature of 39C or higher

– If your child is very tired or irritable

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

– Your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs

– There are pauses when your child breathes

– Your child’s tongue or lips are blue, or their skin is mottled/pale

– Your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake

– Your child has a weak, continuous, or high-pitched cry

 

Click here to find out more about what symptoms to look out for and how to keep well