I would like to announce my imminent retirement at the end of March 2024, and I thought I would give a little history of my time in the practice. I first joined Maple View Practice as a partner in October 1996 when it was known as Dr Cochrane, Chandler and Wong, Church Hill Medical Centre, replacing Dr Wong when she left the partnership. Since then, it has been my privilege to serve Church Hill and the wider Redditch community as a GP principal. In 2012 our neighbouring practice run by Drs Hakeem and Ahmed was closed and we welcomed their patients to us, changing our name to Maple View Medical Practice. One of my greatest achievements was persuading Worcestershire PCT to support my attempts to build a new Medical Centre for Church Hill to replace the outdated premises that we shared with the neighbouring practice. After 9 years of stiff negotiations and setbacks, we finally moved onto the new purpose-built building in 2013. Then in 2014, we merged with St Stephen’s Surgery in the town centre and became St Stephen’s Medical Partnership operating out of both sites. As I approach my retirement at the end of March 2024, I reflect on my time here and its ups and downs and I realise I have been fortunate to work with an outstanding team across both sites. It is a wonderful thing to be able to say I have looked after 3 and in some cases, 4 generations of families and watched babies grow into adults and have families of their own. This practice and its patients have provided me with a rewarding and fulfilling 27 years and I will miss you all. Dr Umer, one of our salaried Doctors at Maple View will take over from me as Partner and I wish the partnership all the very best for the future.

OUR VISION

We aim to continually adapt to the evolving pace of the NHS and patient needs and deliver exceptional holistic healthcare to the culturally diverse community of Redditch. Healthcare that is high-quality, equitable, responsive, accessible, integrated, open, transparent, and inclusive, in a patient-centred, caring environment, whilst maintaining excellence in educational and clinical training of the next generation of doctors.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

• To provide a high quality, ethically sound, patient-centred, service that puts patient safety, care, and wellbeing at the heart of all we do.
• To ensure that patients are treated with dignity and respect and be responsive to their needs.
• To deliver a holistic approach toward diagnosis, health, wellbeing and disease management to all patients without discrimination.
• To express compassion and empathy to our patients and each other.
• To reflect on clinical practice to implement innovation at every level by nurturing an inclusive, open, adaptable culture.
• To act with integrity and be accountable for our actions by operating within an ethical framework through openness and transparency.
• To use a team approach to providing health care and involve the patient as part of our team.
• To value the diversity of our patients and staff and provide equal access.
• To invest in our clinical and non-clinical staff, diversifying and developing skills and knowledge base to provide sound, informed, professional development, resilience and adaptability.
• To actively contribute to training of the next generation of doctors.
• To foster good relationships with other healthcare providers, neighbourhood teams and our fellow PCN practices to strengthen community links, and respond to local, regional and national initiatives.
• To work in a multi-disciplinary team of doctors, pharmacists, nurses, physician associates, HCAs, and involved the wider community of the PCN frailty team and local service providers for the benefit of the practice population.
• To use technology smartly to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our administration, patient contact, accessibility and clinical activity.
• To work jointly with our Patient Participation Group to communicate, change, receive constructive feedback and to encourage their input into service development.
• To operate on a financially sound basis. Having a lower environmental impact with reduced waste.
• To maintain strict confidentiality and ensure that all staff are aware of their responsibilities in confidentiality and consent.

OUR VALUES

• Quality and safety
• Integrity
• Sustainability
• Equality and diversity
• Holistic, patient-centred
• Accessibility
• Dignity and respect
• Compassionate
• Responsive
• Collaborative
• Inclusive

Wellbeing walks

Held twice a month, one in Herefordshire and the other in Worcestershire. These are held in different locations each month, including some National Trust sites where we have kindly be given free access for those who attend our walks.

Social groups – we are currently in the process of setting up social groups in Worcester, a LGBTQ+ autism group twice a month held at The Hive starting in November and a social group for crafts and discussions to be held at the Quaker House. These groups will be mirrored in Herefordshire in the coming months.

1 to 1 support

A series of 4 person-centred sessions with one of our autism advisors. These sessions are designed to provide information and support in areas you may be experiencing difficulties such as communication, sensory awareness, anxiety, and wellbeing Autism Confident - This is a free 8-week programme which aims to help you understand more about autism, help to improve your confidence, and provide you with an opportunity to meet other autistic people. It also offers opportunities to develop your social skills in a supported group setting. Please fill out the below form to access your 1 to 1 sessions.

HW 1 to 1 Referral form July 2023.docx

6 weeks, 12 sessions FREE Education and Exercise programme – see more here…. ESCAPE-pain for BACKS - redditchbc.gov.uk

You can register your interest on the webpage, the programme is starting in January 2024ou can register your interest on the webpage, the programme is starting in January 2024!

From 1 September 2023, the shingles vaccination is being offered to:

For more information on eligibility for Shingles Vaccine please follow the link below...

Shingles vaccine - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

A gentle movement and relaxation class for people living with fibromyalgia.

NEW FREE - from September 2023

Starting in September 2023 at Bromsgrove Sport and Leisure Centre we will be holding an Education and Exercise programme specifically designed for people living with Fibromyalgia.

Developed alongside fibromyalgia patients, this 12 week programme will include elements of education, relaxation techniques, and gentle movement to assist in the management of fibromyalgia.
Each session is designed to be responsive to clients abilities, as these will vary between people and from day-to-day.

To register your interest follow this link... Finding Freedom with Fibromyalgia - bromsgrove.gov.uk

Acute Respiratory Infection Hubs (2).pdf

Postnatal depression

“Baby blues” may last up to two weeks after a baby is born, but if you’re feeling low after that point, then you should seek advice as you could have postnatal depression. https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/post-natal-depression/overview/

Skin cancer awareness

There are several forms of skin cancer. You should be aware of the symptoms so that you’re aware of any concerning changes in your skin or moles. https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-awareness/skin-cancer-awareness-month

Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, Elevation, Firm, Growing are the words we use to describe moles we should be concerned about. Find out more about the ABCDEFG rule here: https://www.melanomauk.org.uk/the-abcde-rule

Skcin have developed an app that will help you understand your risk of skin cancer. It will also help you monitor and assess any lesions.
https://www.skcin.org/

Diabetes essential checks

The symptoms of diabetes are: going for a wee a lot, especially at night, excessive thirst, losing weight without trying to, genital itching or thrush, slower healing, blurred eyesight, increased hunger. https://www.diabetes.org.uk/diabetes-the-basics/diabetes-symptoms

If you have diabetes, you should have regular health checks, at least annually, to make sure your diabetes is well controlled and to ensure you’re staying fit and well. https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/managing-your-diabetes/care-to-expect

Health checks

If you’re aged between 40 and 74, you may be eligible for a FREE NHS health check to help you understand your risk of some long-term health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-health-check/

Stroke Awareness Month

The Stroke Association provide vital help, support and information for those who have suffered a stroke and their families, carers and friends.
https://www.stroke.org.uk/

Face, Arms, Speech, Time (FAST): Problems with facial or arm weakness or speech problems can mean a stroke; think FAST and call 999. https://www.stroke.org.uk/stroke/symptoms

Arthritis

Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in and around the joints in your body and can occur at any age, though symptoms and types of arthritis will vary depending on the type of arthritis. https://versusarthritis.org/

National Walking Month

May is National Walking Month. It’s a free, simple form of exercise that you can do anywhere at any time. Why not try upping the number of steps you do each day?https://www.livingstreets.org.uk/get-involved/national-walking-month/

The Active 10 App helps you track how much walking and activity you’re doing. Working quietly in the background, the app measures just how far you’re walking. https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/get-active/

International Day of the Midwife, 5th May

This year, the focus of International Day of the Midwife is on how midwives can support a sustainable future for all. This includes ideas around midwife-led models, climate action planning, carbon emissions and green technologies. https://www.rcm.org.uk/international-day-of-the-midwife-2024/

World Hand Hygiene Day, 5th May

Good hand hygiene is vital to ensure we reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections. Ensure you know how to maintain excellent hand hygiene and help us keep patients across the world safe and healthy. https://www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/107826.html

Sun Awareness Week, 6th - 12th May

It’s Sun Awareness Week and it’s time to think about non-melanoma skin cancers. Non-melanoma skin cancers start in the top layer of the skin. The appearance of skin cancers can vary. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/non-melanoma-skin-cancer/symptoms/

SLIP, SLOP, SLAP, SLIDE, SHADE! Slip on a T-shirt, Slop on Factor 30+ sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Slide on some sunglasses and Shade from the sun: this will keep you safer in summer weather. https://www.skcin.org/sunSafetyAndPrevention/theFiveSsOfSunSafety.htm

Deaf Awareness Week, 6th - 12th May

12 million adults in the UK are deaf or have hearing loss. RNID has helpful advice to better understand communication needs. https://rnid.org.uk/information-and-support/deaf-awareness/

Dying Matters Awareness Week, 6th - 12th May

This year, Dying Matters Awareness Week highlights that the way we talk about dying matters. Honest, timely conversations about death are important to ensure we deliver good end-of-life care. https://www.hospiceuk.org/our-campaigns/dying-matters/dying-matters-awareness-week

World Asthma Day, 7th May

The theme of this year’s World Asthma Day is “Asthma Education Empowers”. Understanding your condition offers you the best opportunity to manage your condition and stay in good health. https://ginasthma.org/world-asthma-day-2024/

National Day for Staff Networks, 8th May

Staff networks aim to be the voice of staff so that employers know and understand what’s important to their staff and can remain engaged with their teams and create an inclusive environment. https://www.nationaldayforstaffnetworks.co.uk/

National Receptionists Day, 8th May

We’re celebrating our reception teams as it’s National Receptionists Day. Find out more about what our highly skilled staff get up to on an average day in reception. https://www.unsungheroawards.com/day-in-the-life-gp-receptionist/

World Lupus Day, 10th May

Lupus is an autoimmune condition. Over 55% of people with lupus had never heard of it before they were diagnosed. In lupus, your body’s immune system incorrectly attacks your own tissues. https://lupusuk.org.uk/world-lupus-day-may-10th/

Fibromyalgia Awareness Day, 12th May

Fibromyalgia causes widespread pain, fatigue and cognitive issues. It’s thought to affect around 1 in 20 people in the UK. Fibromyalgia Action UK offer help and support to sufferers and those recently diagnosed. https://mail.fibromyalgia-associationuk.org/

International Nurse’s Day, 12th May

The theme for International Nurse’s Day this year is “the economic power of care”. This emphasises the importance of good nursing care in ensuring that we remain well in work or enjoy a healthy older age. https://www.icn.ch/how-we-do-it/campaigns/international-nurses-day

CIND Awareness, 12th May

The 12th of May is Chronic Immunological and Neurological Diseases (CIND) Awareness Day. These diseases cause pain, fatigue and other neurological symptoms, and these symptoms vary between individuals. https://may12th.org/

Smile and Dental Health Month, 13th May - 13th June, 2024

National Smile Month encourages you to “Love Your Smile”. Smiles are important to humans, conveying many emotions. Being able to smile freely without fear of embarrassment is important for our self-confidence. https://www.dentalhealth.org/national-smile-month

Brushing your teeth twice a day, and using floss once a day, can help you care for your teeth. Regular dental check-ups are also an important part of good mouth health. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/take-care-of-your-teeth-and-gums/

Equality, Diversity and Human Rights Week, 13th - 17th May

The NHS is diverse, inclusive, together. We celebrate colleagues and patients without discrimination. https://www.nhsemployers.org/articles/equality-diversity-and-human-rights-week-2024

Dementia Action Week, 13th - 19th May

There are some common early signs and symptoms of dementia. These include memory loss, problems with language and communication, misunderstanding what is being seen, being confused about time or place, mood changes or difficulty controlling emotions and difficulty concentrating, planning or organising. https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/dementia-action-week

National Weaning Week, 13th - 17th May

It’s National Weaning Week. Weaning is the process of babies beginning to eat solid foods and should begin at around six months of age. Weaning can be tricky and Weaning World offers helpful advice and support for parents navigating this part of the parenting journey.
https://weaningworld.com/

Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, 17th May

Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome affects the production of a type of collagen that makes connective tissue (in particular in the blood vessels, hollow organs and skin) less effective and more susceptible to damage. https://www.reds4veds.org/

Mental Health Awareness Week, 13th - 19th May

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week, and the theme is “Movement: Moving more for our mental health”. Physical exercise and getting outdoors, if we can, are beneficial to our overall wellbeing and mental health.
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/public-engagement/mental-health-awareness-week

Learning at Work Week, 13th - 19th May

Learning at Work Week draws our attention to building learning cultures at work and inspiring learning. A learning culture helps our workplaces to grow, nurture and develop. https://www.learningatworkweek.com/

Global Accessibility Awareness Day, 16th May

Worldwide, a billion people have some form of disability. Global Accessibility Awareness Day encourages us to think about digital access and inclusion, so everyone can easily access technology. https://accessibility.day/

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, 17th May

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia focuses on the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex people, and all of those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics.
https://may17.org/about/

National Salt Awareness Week, 13th - 19th May

On average, in the UK, we consume around 8g of salt per day; this is 2g per day more than the recommended maximum. Reducing our salt intake is one of the quickest and most effective ways to reduce blood pressure. Reducing by just 1g per day should prevent over 4,000 heart attacks and strokes each year. https://www.actiononsalt.org.uk/awareness/salt-awareness-week-2024/

#Gladtocare Awareness Week, 20th - 24th May

Glad to Care is a week dedicated to appreciating the amazing contribution that carers make to our society and the lives of those they care for. Without carers, many people would lead lonelier, more isolated lives. https://gladtocare.com/

Walk to School Week, 20th - 24th May

It’s Walk to School Week! See if you can make part or all of your journey on foot. Walking is a great way to stay active and also to reduce the amount of traffic on the roads. https://www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-to-school/primary-schools/walk-to-school-week/

World MS Day, 30th May

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. This year, World MS Day focuses on “My MS Diagnosis” which advocates for early and accurate diagnosis for everyone living with MS. https://worldmsday.org/

St Stephens surgery and Maple View Medical Practice

Military Veteran Information Leaflet

When you left HM Forces, you may have been given a medical release form F Med 133. If you wish your new GP to have access to your service medical records, you need to complete the form and send it to the appropriate address at the top of form, F Med 133. If you were not given the form, you can send a signed dated letter (not email) through the post to the respective address below stating your consent to the release of your service medical history to Natalie Gilliland, St Stephens  Surgery, Adelaide Street, Redditch, B97 4AL. You will need to include details such as: • Service number, Rank/rating, Surname and Forename(s), Date of birth • National Insurance number • Residential address on leaving the service

Royal Navy/Marines MDG(N)Medical Records, Institute of Naval Medicine, Alverstoke, Hampshire PO12 2AA Army Army Personnel Centre, Secretariat Disclosure 3 (Medical), MP 525 Kentigern House, Brown Street, Glasgow G2 8EX Royal Air Force PMA Medical (RAF), Room 040, Building 248, RAF Innsworth, Gloucs, GL3 1EZ

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