December 2025 Newsletter

 

A healthier life made easy with livewell

When the year changes, we think about lifestyle changes. If you’re looking to become healthier: lose weight, get active, cut down on alcohol, or stop smoking - look no further.

LiveWell Dorset is your local dedicated health and wellbeing service, available FREE to every adult living in the county. Its friendly team takes the hassle out of making a healthy change. 

Easy to register online or by phone, LiveWell offers a whole range of options including slimming vouchers, smoking quit kits and coaching, with no catches, no cost.

LiveWell takes away the guesswork and the stress of scrolling and Googling, offering a one-stop service you can trust.

Get personalised support and the perfect package to help you break down barriers, build confidence, and see results - beginning with small, clear, achievable goals. 
No quick fixes, just a lifestyle change that lasts. 

Register online via the Live Well Dorset website or phone 0800 840 1628.

 

Repeat prescriptions: did you know? 

In most cases you can order your prescription 2 weeks before its due date.  Ordering earlier gives the surgery and the pharmacy more time to process your request to ensure you do not run out. 

  • You can check online to see whether your prescription has been processed before visiting your pharmacy.
  • There are various ways to order your repeat prescription but PLEASE DO NOT phone the surgery to order medication as our reception team are not authorised to take requests for medication over the phone as this can lead to errors.
  • The quickest and easiest way to order your repeat prescription is online using either the NHS App, Systmonline or with the Airmid App. 
  • Our reception team will be happy to help set you up to use online services. For further information regarding our prescription process, or online services available please see our prescription page
  • If you don’t have a computer or a smart phone or don’t want to order your medication online you can still hand in your repeat prescription list at the surgery.
 

Digital skills hub at weymouth library

Whether you're just starting out with technology or looking to boost your digital confidence, the Weymouth Digital Skills Hub could help you. The hub offers free courses, workshops, and drop-in support for residents and businesses ranging from basic digital skills to intermediate and advanced courses in packages such as Microsoft Excel. Courses are available for anyone in Dorset.  

You can also book one to one support in setting up and using online services such as the NHS App. For more information please visit their website

 

Diary dates

  • Thursday 18th December: closed from 3pm
  • Tuesday 23rd December: closed 12.30 to 2.30pm 
  • Thursday 25th December: closed
  • Friday 26th December: closed
  • Thursday 1st January: closed
 

Royal crescent surgery 

Royal Crescent Surgery are pleased to have been awarded a Low Carbon Dorset Grant to support the installation of new solar panels.

Dr Chris Nelson is leading this project and says, “this will play an important role in reducing our carbon emissions, helping avoid around 150,000 kg of CO2 each year while generating clean, renewable electricity for the surgery”.

Part-funded by Low Carbon Dorset as part of the Shared Prosperity Fund

 

What is NHS pharmacy first?

Pharmacy First is a brand-new NHS service that allows community pharmacists to diagnose common ailments and prescribe medications that you would previously only have been able to access through your GP.

The service was introduced by the UK Government in January 2024 to combat the growing pressure on GP surgeries and to give the public a faster and easier way to manage common conditions that require prescription medication.

What’s even better is that the service is free - The NHS funds pharmacists to carry out the consultations.

If you have symptoms of the conditions below, you can use Pharmacy first for a free consultation.

New ways your pharmacist can help you

Your pharmacist can now treat you or give you medicines for some illnesses without you having to see a doctor first.

Pharmacists can now help if you have:

  • an earache and you may have a high temperature
  • a dry, scratchy or sore throat 
  • a urinary tract infection (UTI) which can feel like a burning or pain when you pee
  • sinusitis which can be a blocked or bunged up nose
  • shingles which can give you a rash and make you feel unwell
  • impetigo which can give you an itchy rash
  • infected insect bites which can be red and sore

You can still speak to your doctor but your pharmacist will often be able to help. You do not have to book an appointment

Find out more on the NHS website

 

Steps to wellbeing at christmas

To ensure a mentally healthy holiday, consider the following steps:

  • Set realistic expectations: Avoid the pressure of perfection and focus on what truly matters. 
  • Embrace solitude: Take time for yourself and engage in activities that restore emotional balance. 
  • Prioritize meaningful interactions: Spend time with friends and family who matter to you, rather than adding more events to your schedule. 
  • Practice mindfulness: Take moments to connect with your mind and body and notice the beauty in your surroundings. 
  • Stay active: Engage in physical activities you enjoy, whether it's walking, gardening, or dancing. 
  • Take notice: Stop and reflect on your surroundings, which can help you feel more grounded and present. 
  • Keep learning: Dedicate time to learn new skills or hobbies, which can boost your self-esteem and overall well-being.

By incorporating these steps into your holiday planning, you can create a more balanced and enjoyable festive season. Remember, it's okay to have a "good enough" holiday that still allows you to enjoy the spirit of the season. 

We would like to wish all our friends, colleagues and patients a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year, from all the staff at the Practice.

Merry Christmas 

Published: Dec 15, 2025