Here are some of the newsletters received recently by the PPG that patients may find interesting:

•  The Friendly Food Club have published a couple newsletters recently:
• Overview of their celebration event with celebrity guest chef Nicholas Balfe: https://mailchi.mp/thefriendlyfoodclub/ffccelebrationevent2025-58904?e=dc81148bf5
• August Newsletter – see where they’ve been in the last month and what’s happening in the near future: https://mailchi.mp/thefriendlyfoodclub/ffcnewsletteraugust2025-59567?e=dc81148bf5

• Healthwatch Dorset’s July newsletter is packed with information including an update and response following the government’s announcement to abolish the Healthwatch network: https://mailchi.mp/1d1568474152/e-bulletin-our-latest-news-to-you?e=0910e5d570

CAN is one of the infrastructure organisations for the voluntary and community sector in Dorset, that serves charities, community groups, and volunteers by offering training, resources, and a vibrant network of support. They are looking for trustees to play a vital role in guiding the strategic direction of their organisation that champions inclusion, wellbeing, and community resilience. If you’d like more information please email CAN for a copy of their Board Recruitment Pack and Strategic Plan: hello@can100.org

NHS England, the Department of Health and Social Care, and the Department for Education have created an opportunity for young carers to take part in online workshops in September to share their experiences and discuss ways to improve identification and support. Events are being held on 10^th, 16^th and 17^th September.

Download and view an event poster for more information >>

To book a place please email: england.nhsthinkcarer@nhs.net

The new website, produced by Dorset Women CIC in collaboration with NHS Dorset , healthcare professionals, and members of the community, is centred on the voices and experiences of local women. It's a safe, inclusive space for all women—including those who are transgender or non-binary—to explore trusted health information and local services.

Whether you're looking for information on contraception, mental health, breast health, menopause, pelvic health, or HPV, this website is designed to support you in making choices about your mental and physical well-being.

Visit the Dorset Women’s Health website at https://ourdorset.org.uk/women/

It’s that time of year again when the annual GP patient survey results are published. Overall, the results for Dorset are promising with 81% of people saying their experience of their GP practice was good, a slight increase on last year.

Lyme Bay Medical Practice scored an overall patient satisfaction of 85% much higher than the national average of 75% and better than the local average of 81%.

Download and view a summary of the Practice results here>>

This year there are various ways you can look at the data and analyse results using this link>> https://www.gp-patient.co.uk/ 

You can also view the summary for Dorset in their news article here>> https://nhsdorset.nhs.uk/news/dorset-patients-give-local-gp-practices-high-marks-once-again/

Owned and run by the NHS, the NHS App is a simple and secure way to access a range of NHS services on your smartphone or tablet. Using the NHS App you can:

• Order a repeat prescription through your nominated pharmacy
• Check your symptoms
• Book and cancel appointments
• View existing and book future appointments
• View your medical records including test results
• Find NHS information on hundreds of conditions
• Use NHS 111 for urgent help online
• Manage decisions around organ, tissue and blood donations.

A range of digital tools is available alongside the NHS App, giving people an important choice in how they access GP services online.

Learn more about the NHS App on the NHS website here>>

Young people across Dorset have a vibrant, inclusive space to connect, grow, and be themselves thanks to Space Youth Project, a dedicated organization supporting LGBT+ youth through a variety of free programs and services.

Space Youth Project runs free weekly groups throughout Dorset, offering a safe and welcoming environment where LGBT+ young people can meet, make friends, and take part in fun and meaningful activities. From art and cooking to Pride-themed events, these sessions are designed to build confidence and foster a sense of belonging.

Beyond group activities, the project provides one-to-one support, family guidance, and professional training, making it a vital resource for not just young individuals, but also their families and the wider community.

Participants are encouraged to share their experiences, either in peer discussions or privately with experienced Youth Workers, helping them to feel seen, heard, and supported.

Space Youth Project’s mission is to help young LGBT+ individuals develop their skills and self-confidence, all within a safe and supportive space that celebrates diversity.

Visit their website for more information and how to contact them>>

Regularly checking your blood pressure is one of the easy ways to help monitor your health. There is an app available that can link your blood pressure readings (whether you take them at home or at a healthcare or community venue) to your GP practice.

 For more information drop me a line, contact your practice and ask to speak to the digital care coordinator or follow this link: https://ourdorset.org.uk/digital/bphome/

As part of your regular self-care routine have you considered checking your head and neck for changes or anything unusual?  Watch this video from Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK which includes tips for regular checks.