January 2026 Newsletter

Keeping Our Patients Informed 

Welcome to 2026! 

Happy New Year from all of us at Old School Surgery! We hope you had a restful festive season. As we step into January, we’re excited to share updates, reminders, and helpful health tips to start the year off right. As we welcome 2026, it’s the perfect time to focus on small, sustainable changes that can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing.  
Here’s what’s new and important for patients in Cranbrook and across the NHS this year: 

Latest Health Updates for West Kent & the NHS 

Flu Season Update: 

  • West Kent has seen a moderate rise in flu cases this winter. If you haven’t had your flu jab yet, it’s not too late — over 65’s can book at their GP practice, and all eligible patients can go to their local pharmacy. 

New Vaccination Schedules: 

  • COVID-19 boosters remain available for eligible groups (over 75s and clinically vulnerable) at the Pharmacy. 

  • Shingles vaccine now offered to everyone aged 60 and over (previously 70+). 

  • Children’s flu nasal spray continues for ages 2–16. 

NHS Campaigns: 

  • “Every Mind Matters” focuses on mental wellbeing this winter. 

  • “Better Health” encourages small steps for weight management and physical activity. 

  • New NHS Food Scanner App helps families make healthier swaps at the supermarket. 

 

Practice News 

  • New Year, New Services 
    We’re continuing to improve access through Anima, our online consultation tool. You can submit medical requests, medication reviews, and advice without waiting on the phone. 

Jockey Lane Expansion – Latest Update 

Our move to Jockey Lane is still progressing behind the scenes. We’re working closely with the ICB to complete governance steps. This expansion will give us more space, better facilities, and secure the future of primary care in Cranbrook. We’ll keep you informed as soon as timelines are confirmed. 

 

Appointments Snapshot (December 2025) 

Appointment Type  Number / Waiting Time 
GP Appointments 1st December 2025 to 31st December 2025

1357

  • Routine / Pre-Bookable 32% 
  • Acute / Book On The Day 68%
Nurse Appointments  442
Blood Tests 357
Current Waiting Times 
  • GP: 4-5 Weeks 
  • Standard Nursing: 5 Weeks  
  • Routine Blood Test: 5 Weeks 
Phone Calls Taken December

3484  

  • Average Phone Queue Length 4m 9s  
  • Abandoned calls 37.8% - 90% of these calls are made out of core hours 
Did Not Attend   6.1%

 

Community updates 

We continue to share updates in The Parish Cake and work with local groups to support health initiatives. Got ideas for topics? Email us at kmicb.practicemanager.oldschoolsurgery@nhs.net or leave suggestions at reception. 

 

Four Things You Can Do to Reset Your Health This Year 

  1. Stay Active  

  • Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. Brisk walking, cycling, dancing, or even gardening all count. Movement boosts heart health, mood, and energy. 

  1. Eat Well  

  • Include plenty of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. 

  • Use NHS tools like the Food Scanner App and Weight Loss Plan to make small, sustainable changes. These help maintain a healthy weight and reduce long-term disease risk. 

  1. Mental Wellbeing  

  • January can feel tough—stay connected, get outside, and seek support if needed. 

  • Simple practices like mindful breathing, good sleep habits, and staying socially connected can reduce stress and improve resilience. 

  1. Use Pharmacy First  

  • Your local pharmacist can help with minor illnesses—no appointment needed. 

 

Avoid This Common January Mistake 

Mistake: Setting unrealistic, all-or-nothing resolutions. 
Solution: Start small and specific—e.g., “Walk briskly for 20 minutes, 5 times a week.” Build habits gradually for lasting success. 

One Easy Way to Boost Mental Wellbeing 

Move more—even a little count. Physical activity triggers feel-good chemicals that reduce stress and improve mood. A short walk or 15 minutes of movement can make a big difference. 

Staying Motivated Beyond January 

  • Track progress with apps or simple logs. 

  • Fit new habits into existing routines. 

  • Share goals with friends or family for accountability. 

  • Celebrate small wins—consistency beats perfection. 

 

Small Change, Big Impact 

Increase your daily steps. Even reaching 5,000 steps per day can lower chronic disease risk. Try: 

  • Taking stairs instead of lifts. 

  • Walking part of your commute. 

  • Doing 10-minute walks during breaks. 

 

Quick Tip for an Instant Health Boost 

Try a 5-minute reset: 

  • Stand and stretch. 

  • Take three deep breaths. 

  • Rest your eyes from screens. 

  • Step outside for fresh air. 

  • Drink a glass of water. 

These micro-breaks reduce stress, improve circulation, and refresh your mind. 

 

Access Care Online 

Submit requests and get advice through Anima: 
Start your Anima request 

For trusted NHS advice, visit: 
NHS Conditions A to Z 

Published: Jan 12, 2026