Westrop Medical Practice

03/09/2026

There has been a 50% reduction in admissions of newborns to ICU in the first full year of the RSV maternal vaccine programme.

06/07/2026

Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has just faced its busiest week on record, and the hospital continues to be extremely busy with an average of 400-450 patients a day attending urgent and emergency care (for context, a ‘busy’ day usually sees around 270-300 patients).

The data is showing us that some patients are presenting to the Urgent Treatment Centre with minor conditions that could be addressed elsewhere, including by 111, Pharmacy first and Primary care. This includes heat-related conditions.

With the weather set to heat up again this week, we are also appealing to those with pre-existing health conditions to do what they can to prevent themselves becoming unwell – keeping cool and staying hydrated, and checking in on loved ones who might be more susceptible to the heat.

Please consider your GP, local pharmacy, Livi and 111 for minor conditions before going to the hospital.

30/06/2026

Hot weather and mental health medication

Heat can increase health risks for some people using medication for their mental health.

Medications that affect how the brain works, known as psychotropic medications (including hypnotics, anxiolytics, and antipsychotics) can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature, making it harder for it to respond appropriately to heat stress. This is of concern particularly for individuals with schizophrenia or dementia.

People using these medications can be more vulnerable to heat-related health effects such as:

· heatstroke

· dehydration

· nervous system changes

· altered neurological function (such as confusion, agitation or disorientation)

Antidepressants hot weather NHS advice
When it comes to antidepressants and hot weather, NHS advice emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated, wearing light and breathable clothing, and avoiding direct sunlight. It is also advised to monitor blood pressure regularly and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours. If you experience any symptoms of overheating, such as dizziness, confusion, or unusual tiredness, it is crucial to rest, hydrate, and seek medical help if necessary. Always consult with your healthcare provider about any concerns regarding your medication during hot weather.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mental-health-medications-and-extreme-weather

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/

Some mental health medications increase sensitivity to hot weather, which is increasing in frequency and severity due to climate change, impacting wellbeing.

24/06/2026

09/06/2026

19/05/2026

UPDATE: We have been advised that the planned roadworks for tomorrow and Friday (21st-22nd May) have been cancelled. William Morris Way will be open as normal.

Planned roadworks will close William Morris Way on the following dates:
21st & 22nd May 09:00 – 15:00
26th – 29th May, 08:00 – 18:00

If you have an appointment at Tadpole Surgery on these dates, please be aware that you will have to travel via the Blunsdon Hill route instead of through Tadpole Garden Village.
We advise all patients driving to the surgery to allow plenty of time to ensure you arrive at your appointments on time.

29/04/2026

On Tuesday 12th May, our Highworth and Moredon Surgeries will be joining our other branches and going live with the GP Triage process.

This system helps ensure that clinical decisions are made by clinicians, rather than placing that responsibility on patients or reception staff. It also allows us to prioritise those with the greatest need, while making better use of our overall appointment capacity.

23/03/2026

Tadpole Surgery will be closed next Monday (30/03/26) due to a planned power outage.
Emergency appointments will be held at Taw Hill Surgery for this day only as Tadpole is expected to open as normal from Tuesday 31st March.

Our phone lines will remain open, and you can continue to contact us by phone, email, or online via the website.

Contact Us OnlinePlease select a button from the options below.Click here if you are a patient and need to contact us Click here if you are a Health Care Professional or a Third Party and need to contact us