4 minute read
Health and Wellbeing
Kingston Carers’ Network
Kingston Carers’ Network is a voluntary sector organisation, whose purpose is to provide support and advice to carers of people living in the Royal Borough of Kingston who cannot cope without their help due to illness, disability, mental health problems or substance addiction. We are currently supporting over 4,000 carers including 785 young carers, aged 5-18. It is estimated that the value of care provided by carers each year saves the health service and social care budgets £239 million in our borough alone.
We aim to improve the lives of carers by delivering holistic and bespoke services to reflect the diverse and individual needs of carers. Our services include: generic and specialist dementia and mental health carers support, advice and advocacy, benefits support, counselling and emotional support, complementary therapies, a wellbeing programme; peer support groups, social activities, and out-of-hours advice sessions for working carers. Young carers receive a bespoke service that is developed around the child and their own needs, goals and aspirations. Young carers’ support includes: weekly youth groups and drop-ins; a programme of respite activities and outings each year, one-to-one and mentoring; in-school outreach support, advice and advocacy.
KCN works closely with local partners, including the local authority and the clinical commissioning group, whilst raising almost 70% of our funds from charitable sources. In this exceptionally challenging financial climate, this is becoming increasingly difficult at a time when our carers need our support more than ever. The pandemic has caused additional pressures in the lives of carers, with lack of respite and support networks, financial worries and increasing isolation.
We continue to work hard and do all we can to support this very special community.
www.kingstoncarersnetwork.org.uk Diane White ceo@kingstoncarers.org.uk
Quality care at a competitive price
Right now, we are offering a threeweek respite stay for the price of two. Just ask us about our winter respite offer.* With proven expertise and some of the highest ratings in the UK, we’re here to support you. If you’re considering care, call Rick on 020 3811 0806 or email rick.mayne@careuk.com Trusted to care.
Rated 9.9
out of 10 on carehome. co.uk
Sherwood Grange care home Kingston Vale careuk.com/sherwood-grange
*Terms and conditions apply.
Flu Season: What Your GP Wants You To Know
Although flu almost disappeared throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, with the lifting of restrictions and return to normal life, it has started to circulate again, together with all other viruses responsible for colds and other respiratory ailments.
This year, the Influenza virus is expected to be more severe than usual for a number of reasons. Influenza activity usually peaks between December and February. 20% of people in the UK will catch the virus, and about 25% will develop symptoms.
Flu could be worse this year
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, due to the reported A(H3N2) virus subtype that can hit the elderly, pregnant women and people suffering with chronic diseases more severely, flu is expected to come with more serious and frequent complications.
There is also concern that our immunity to flu strains is diminished this year. This is because we were less exposed to flu strains last winter due to social distancing measures.
The PCR test is the only tool to tell if you have Covid-19
More concerns are now raised due to the spread of the new Omicron variant, although it is not clear whether symptoms are similar or milder than the usual Covid-19 symptoms. “If you have a high temperature, runny nose, cough and sore throat, it can be difficult to tell whether you have caught the flu or the Covid-19 virus, as many of the symptoms are similar.” - says Dr Lowri Bailey, General Practitioner at New Victoria Hospital –“The only effective way to know if you have Covid is to have a PCR test.”
How can you protect yourself during flu season?
“Getting the flu jab!” – continues Dr Bailey – “The vaccination is safe and effective at preventing the virus and reducing the risk of serious illness should you catch the flu. It is particularly important to have the flu jab if you are older, pregnant or have a long-term health condition. Children between 2 and 17 years old will usually have the Nasal Flu Vaccination – this is a weakened version of the influenza virus.”
Why the flu jab is more important than ever this year
Scientists develop an annual flu jab every year based on the best information they have on circulating strains.
Since your immune system can be less reactive after all the lockdown measures, and there are also chances you might get Coronavirus and Influenza at the same time, the risk of developing severe symptoms and complications increases.
You can arrange a flu vaccination for you or your child now at New Victoria Hospital.
If you would like to book an appointment, please contact the GP Service on 020 8131 7277 or visit
