E X T R E M E   P R E S S U R E

Our capacity today has reached unsafe levels and we are having to implement drastic measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our patients and staff.

We need to ensure our severely unwell and vulnerable patients with the most significant needs can access the support they need from us in a timely manner.

In the meantime, we would be grateful if you could consider seeking help through alternative routes. For example:

• NHS website – good advice for self-management of minor ailments https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/
• Healthier Together website – excellent advice on treating minor illnesses in children and when you might need to seek medical advice https://www.what0-18.nhs.uk/
• HANDi App – advice on treating children with coronavirus, diarrhoea/vomiting, chestiness, high temperature, tummy pain, common new-born problems https://www.royaldevon.nhs.uk/stay-well/handi-children-and-young-people-s-app/
• Local chemists – for help with minor ailments such as sore throat, coughs, colds, rashes, aches and pains.
• Minor Injury Unit – for new minor injuries requiring assessment, dressing or treatment.
• The Moorings @ Devon offer mental health support to anyone aged 18+ in the Devon area, from three locations in Barnstaple, Exeter, and Torquay: https://www.mhm.org.uk/the-moorings-devon
• First Response services provides seven day a week, 365 days a year support for urgent mental health support for people with mental health and learning disability needs. https://www.dpt.nhs.uk/our-services/first-response-service

We have been asking, and continue to ask, for support from local and national healthcare organisations to help ease the pressures on general practice.

Thank you for your understanding