The Thorpe Practice

05/06/2026

Worried about how much screen time is too much for your child? You’re not alone 💙

New UK guidance helps parents and carers build healthy screen habits for children under 5 in a simple, realistic way 👍

For younger children:
• Under 2s – avoid screen time where possible, except for shared activities like video calls or looking at photos together
• Ages 2–5 – aim for no more than 1 hour a day, and less if possible ⏱️

It’s not just about time, but how screens are used. Choosing slow-paced, age-appropriate content and watching together can support learning and development 📺

Too much screen time can take away from the things that matter most at this age, like sleep, play, and time spent talking with parents and carers 🧸

Try setting simple boundaries like no screens at mealtimes or before bed, and swap screen time for activities like reading, playing, or chatting together 📚

Find out more:
Screen time guidance for under 5s: https://beststartinlife.gov.uk/screen-time-under-5s/

03/06/2026

Got an insect bite that’s becoming red, swollen or painful? Your local pharmacy can help 🦟

Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, you can get expert advice and treatment for infected insect bites without needing a GP appointment. Pharmacists are trained to assess your symptoms and recommend the right treatment, including creams, antihistamines, or even antibiotics if appropriate 💊

Signs your bite may be infected include:
• Increasing redness or swelling
• Pain or tenderness
• The bite getting worse after a couple of days
• Possible discharge or pus

This service is available for adults and children aged 1 year and over, making it a quick and convenient way to get the care you need 👨‍⚕️

If your symptoms are more serious, your pharmacist will make sure you’re referred to the right service for further care 👍

Find out more:
Pharmacy First information: https://patient.info/features/general-health/pharmacy-first-getting-the-most-from-your-pharmacist

02/06/2026

💙 Let's change how we talk about diabetes.

Diabetes is a complex condition influenced by many factors, including genetics, environment and health. It is not simply a matter of personal choice.

Words matter. By challenging stigma and misconceptions, we can help create a more supportive and understanding community for everyone affected by diabetes.

💙

01/06/2026

01/06/2026

Autism Central - Better everyday practice for autistic people who have a learning disability: what families need to know.

Autism Central are holding the webinar

‘What a “good life” might look like for autistic people with a learning disability’ at 12-1pm on Friday 5 June.

This resource will help families learn what better everyday practice looks like for autistic people with a learning disability, and how they can make a positive

In this webinar, Myrto Kakoulidou will interview Olive Kayongo about parenting autistic young people, exploring the joys, trauma and advocacy that shape this journey.

01/06/2026

To register for the NHS App, please use the link below

https://www.nhsapp.service.nhs.uk/login

01/06/2026

Enjoying the sunshine? Make sure you’re protecting your skin properly ☀️

Sunscreen is important, but it shouldn’t be your only line of defence. Wearing suitable clothing, spending time in the shade, and avoiding the sun when it’s strongest (11am–3pm) can all help reduce your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage 🌤️

When choosing sunscreen, look for:
• SPF 30 or higher to protect against UVB rays
• At least 4-star UVA protection or a UVA symbol in a circle
• Broad-spectrum protection covering both UVA and UVB ☀️

Don’t forget to apply sunscreen generously about 20–30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating 💧

Even water-resistant sunscreen needs reapplying, as water and towels can remove it more easily than you think 🌊

Find out more:
NHS sun safety advice: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/
Choosing the right sunscreen: https://patient.info/features/skin-conditions/how-to-choose-the-right-sunscreen

31/05/2026

Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, and support is available to help you every step of the way. The NHS Quit Smoking app provides a free, structured 28-day programme with practical tools, encouragement and personalised advice to help you stop for good. 💙🚭📱✨

Using the app can help you:
• Track your progress and stay motivated 📊💪
• Manage cravings and triggers with practical tips 🧠✨
• See how much money you’re saving 💷💙
• Get daily support and encouragement when you need it most 🌿📱

With the right support, quitting becomes much more achievable, and even small steps can lead to lasting change. 🚭💙✨

Get free NHS quit smoking support: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/
Download the NHS Quit Smoking app: https://nhsquitsmoking.app.link/better_health_quit_smoking

27/05/2026

We understand that sometimes you may forget your appointment, other things crop up or you may no longer need the appointment.

We ask that if you can not attend your appointment that you please let us know as soon as possible.

We have a large number of people that do not attend their appointments every week leading to wasted doctor and nurse time, this leads to delays in being able to get an appointment.

Since the beginning of 2026 we have had 688 patients that failed to attend their appointment. This equates to 51 hours of clinical time.

Can we please ask that you let us know, if you are unable to make your apppointment, so we can offer it to someone else.