Seasons greetings

We'd like to wish all our readers a very happy Christmas and we hope you have a wonderful New Year. 

This is the last blog of 2020, as we will be taking a break over the Christmas holidays, but we will still be tweeting updates via @NHFTNHSLibrary

We will be back from the 4th of January with our regular health news updates.

Covid-19: Northamptonshire moves to tier 3

Covid-19: Northamptonshire moves to tier 3 Northamptonshire will move into England's tier three of coronavirus restrictions.

The county, currently in tier two, will face the higher level of restrictions from 00:01 GMT on 26 December, the government has announced.

People in tier three can form bubbles with another household on Christmas Day, but not with anyone in tier four. BBC Northampton

See also:

• Tier 3 — Very High Alert: what it means for Northamptonshire Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Northamptonshire goes into TIER THREE from one minute past midnight on Boxing Day Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Ten more Covid deaths in Northamptonshire hospitals as Health Secretary prepares tiers announcement Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• "Difficult but essential," County health chief's view on Northamptonshire's move into Tier Three Northamptonshire Telegraph
• A neighbourhood divided - the Rushden road that leads to Tier Four Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Kettering restaurant hit with Covid fine after hosting birthday party Northamptonshire Telegraph

Chart of the week: From horribilis in 2020 to mirabilis in 2021?

Chart of the week: From horribilis in 2020 to mirabilis in 2021? Each week we present analysis of data in chart form to illustrate some key issues and invite discussion. In our final chart of this year, we use Google Trends data to take a light-hearted look at what's been occupying us during 2020 – finding that the coronavirus has dominated our internet searching habits, like everything else... Nuffield Trust

Surviving COVID: The impact of the pandemic on the mental health of NHS workers

Surviving COVID: The impact of the pandemic on the mental health of NHS workers This film illustrates the impact of the pandemic on the mental wellbeing of NHS workers and highlights the importance of providing emotional support to them at this challenging time and into the future. 

Many health care staff have gone above and beyond to provide care for both COVID-19 and other patients, often placing themselves at personal risk. Some have faced extremely stressful circumstances that have had a long-term impact on their mental health. The Health Foundation

Perspectives from the front line: the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on BME communities

Perspectives from the front line: the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on BME communities This report finds that the effects of long-standing health and socio-economic inequalities and institutional racism lie behind the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on people from black and minority ethnic (BME) backgrounds. It distils the findings of a research study into the underlying factors. It is based on interviews with BME NHS leaders, clinicians, community organisations and service users, and a survey of over 100 members of the NHS Confederation’s BME Leadership Network. NHS Confederation

Government tiers review update

Government tiers review update Exponential rises in cases in the South East and East of England necessitate decisive action ahead of the formal review on 30 December.

From the beginning of 26 December, Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Oxfordshire and most of Hampshire to be escalated to Tier 4, Cheshire and Northamptonshire escalated to Tier 3, and Cornwall and Herefordshire escalated to Tier 2. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• Detailed guide: Full list of local restriction tiers by area Department of Health and Social Care
• Speech: Speech on coronavirus restriction tiers, vaccines and testing Department of Health and Social Care
• Detailed guide: The R number and growth rate in the UK Department of Health and Social Care
• Speech: Health and Social Care Secretary's statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 23 December 2020 Department of Health and Social Care
• Transparency data: Coronavirus cases in England: 23 December 2020 Department of Health and Social Care
• Transparency data: Coronavirus cases by local authority: epidemiological data, 23 December 2020 Department of Health and Social Care
• Research and analysis: Evidence on the accuracy of lateral flow device testing Department of Health and Social Care
• £149 million to support increased care home testing Department of Health and Social Care
• Confirmed cases of COVID-19 variant from South Africa identified in UK Public Health England
• Rapid evaluation confirms lateral flow devices effective in detecting new COVID-19 variant Public Health England
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Covid-19: Six million more people to enter tier 4 on Boxing Day

Covid-19: Six million more people to enter tier 4 on Boxing Day Six million more people in the east and south east of England are to enter tier four on Boxing Day, Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced. 

The places moving into the highest level of restrictions - which include a "stay at home" order - border the areas already in tier four.

A number of areas will also move up into tiers three and two. BBC News

See also:

• Sharp rises in infection levels in England, says ONS BBC News
• Covid: Will variant force Nightingale hospitals to open? BBC News
• The science behind virus mutations and why they matter  BBC News
• UK has two cases of variant found in South Africa BBC News
• Covid-19: UK bans travel from South Africa over variant BBC News
• Coronavirus: Fresh air 'forgotten weapon' in fight BBC News
• Moderna says it expects its coronavirus vaccine to protect against the new U.K. strain The Daily Mail
• COVID-19: First 10 days after hospital discharge are most dangerous The Daily Mail
• Staff shortages leave London's Nightingale hospital without intensive care beds The Daily Telegraph
• UK Covid-19 cases and deaths: how the UK is coping with a second wave The Daily Telegraph
• Christmas Day to be heaviest Covid day so far for England's hospitals The Guardian
• Covid tier 3 rules in England: latest restrictions explained The Guardian
• Millions more join tier 4 Covid restrictions in England from Boxing Day The Guardian
• More data needed before giving just one vaccine dose, says Covid adviser The Guardian
• Oxford vaccine set to be approved ‘just after’ Christmas, says Sage scientist The Independent
• Covid: Earlier lockdown in England could have saved more than 20,000 lives, new study says The Independent
• Test and trace reduces working hours over Christmas as England infections spike The Independent
• Scientists defend use of rapid lateral flow Covid test as government steps up UK rollout The Independent
• In focus: How coronavirus has impacted the NHS Metro

Crocodile bites and volcanic eruption injuries treated by NHS in last year

Crocodile bites and volcanic eruption injuries treated by NHS in last year Crocodile bites, snake attacks and volcanic eruptions were among the more unusual causes of injuries treated by the NHS in England over the last year.

Three victims of lightning and 490 lawnmower mishaps are also detailed in newly released data on hospital admissions from March 2019 to March 2020. The Independent

Covid-19: Kettering General Hospital doctor tells of 'accelerating' cases

Covid-19: Kettering General Hospital doctor tells of 'accelerating' cases A hospital consultant who spoke of his fears over the rise in coronavirus cases said it appeared someone had "pressed the accelerator".

Dr Ajay Verma said he was "blown away" with "how heavy the burden is with Covid" at Kettering General Hospital.

He said patients being admitted, including those in their 30s and 40s, were "incredibly poorly". BBC Northampton 

See also:

• Fears that Northamptonshire could be in a tougher Covid tier by Boxing Day as cases soar in the county Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Another 21 coronavirus deaths in Northamptonshire hospitals and care homes  Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• 'The new strain was not the news any of us expected...and with it will likely come further change'  Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• England could enter into a country-wide lockdown in the New Year Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Police have issued over 150 fines to people travelling into Tier 2 areas ‘for a pint’ Northamptonshire Telegraph

KGH's £1m extension to help it get through the winter

KGH's £1m extension to help it get through the winter Two wards at KGH will be extended in a £1m projectto help cope with the winter pressures.

The Rothwell Road hospital is spending the cash to add 12 beds in two new side rooms with a temporary building. Northamptonshire Telegraph 

New senior leaders appointed for KGH and NGH

New senior leaders appointed for KGH and NGH Northampton General Hospital (NGH) and Kettering General Hospital (KGH) have announced three senior appointments as they continue to implement leadership arrangements for the two trusts to be run as a new hospital group. Northamptonshire Telegraph 

“Perilously uncertain” future for UK health sector despite Brexit deal, expert analysis reveals

“Perilously uncertain” future for UK health sector despite Brexit deal, expert analysis reveals The perilously uncertain future facing the UK at the end of the Brexit transition period could put the UK’s health and care system at risk.

New barriers to migration, an unknown level of disruption to medicines and devices, a prolonged economic slowdown and barriers to investment in science will impact the health sector almost immediately and into the future. Nuffield Trust 

See also:

• Understanding the impact of Brexit on health in the UK Nuffield Trust

Rapid Response Guidance Note: Vaccination and Mental Capacity (First Update)

Rapid Response Guidance Note: Vaccination and Mental Capacity (First Update) Thirty Nine Essex Street LLP have done a vaccination guide for those in England (but also potentially more generally relevant), to help people think through capacity and best interests properly to ensure individualised decisions are taken. 

Coronavirus pandemic prompts a surge in the number of people using NHS tech in 2020

Coronavirus pandemic prompts a surge in the number of people using NHS tech Digital services provided by the NHS have seen a huge increase in usage throughout 2020 as a result of social distancing and the need to access healthcare remotely.

Since the start of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, tech services provided by NHS Digital have seen unprecedented levels of usage by both patients and frontline staff. 

Record numbers of doctors and nurses working in the NHS

Record numbers of doctors and nurses working in the NHS The number of nurses in the NHS in England increased by 13,313 on last year to a record 299,184, and the number of doctors rose by 6,030 to a record 122,446, figures to the end of September show. Department of Health and Social Care  

Policy paper: Community testing

Policy paper: Community testing Community asymptomatic testing helps identify and isolate individuals who have coronavirus (COVID-19) but do not have symptoms. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• Guidance: Arrangements for visiting out of the care home Department of Health and Social Care
• Guidance: Coronavirus (COVID-19): providing home care Department of Health and Social Care
• Guidance: NHS Test and Trace: how we test your samples Department of Health and Social Care 

Covid: New variant detected 'due to strength of UK surveillance'

Covid: New variant detected 'due to strength of UK surveillance' A new variant of the virus causing Covid-19, first spotted in Kent, could already be circulating - or have originated from - outside the UK.

But it was spotted here because of the strength of the UK's surveillance system, scientists have said.

The Covid-19 Genomics Consortium (Cog-UK) has tracked the genetic history of more than 150,000 samples of Sars-Cov-2 virus. BBC News

See also:

• Covid jab 'very likely' to protect against new variant BBC News
• Covid-19: UK sees over 80,000 excess deaths during pandemic BBC News
• Britain's Covid outbreak continues to worsen with another 33,364 cases The Daily Mail
• Covid UK: Children are more likely to catch mutated new strain The Daily Mail
• Did No10 lie about Professor Lockdown quitting SAGE? The Daily Mail
• Will schools stay closed in January? The latest Covid-19 advice for parents The Daily Telegraph
• New Covid strain: how dangerous is it, and could it hamper a vaccine? The Daily Telegraph
• 414 GP-led COVID vaccination sites up and running with more to start this week GPonline
• NHS leaders raise concerns over pace of Covid vaccine rollout The Guardian
• World's media ask how it went so wrong for 'Plague Island' Britain The Guardian
• Cases of new Covid variant are 'all around the UK', say scientists The Guardian
• Covid vaccine: NHS England urged to act over ‘unequal’ roll out leaving vulnerable staff The Independent
• Coronavirus patients in English hospitals near April peak as NHS leaders fear threat from new variant The Independent
• More areas face Tier 4 coronavirus restrictions as government says ‘further action’ being considered The Independent

Cygnet Woodside in special measures over 'patient safety risks'

Cygnet Woodside in special measures over 'patient safety risks' A hospital for men with learning disabilities has been placed in special measures after there were "serious risks to patient safety".

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspected Cygnet Woodside, in Bradford, in September following allegations of abuse by staff towards a patient.

Police said they were investigating a report of an assault at the hospital on 31 August and had arrested two men. BBC News 

Puberty blockers: Parents' warning as ruling appealed

Puberty blockers: Parents' warning as ruling appealed The NHS gender identity service is appealing against a High Court ruling that restricts children under 16 from accessing "puberty-blocking" drugs.

The NHS service says the move harms young people with gender dysphoria.

Doctors and parents have told the BBC News the ruling could cause distressed trans teens to self-harm or even take their own lives. 

Record number of children face domestic abuse this Christmas, warns charity

Record number of children face domestic abuse this Christmas, warns charity A record number of children are likely to be exposed to domestic violence this Christmas, experts warn, as the new coronavirus restrictions push family tensions to tipping point.

The Early Intervention Foundation, a charity that supports children experiencing poor outcomes, estimates that more than 15,000 youngsters are at risk of witnessing or experiencing domestic abuse over the two-week Christmas period. The Independent

Public Health officials urge residents of neighbouring counties to stay away from Northamptonshire

Public Health officials urge residents of neighbouring counties to stay away from Northamptonshire Public Health officials are urging residents of neighbouring counties to stay away from Northamptonshire unless absolutely essential and not to come for shopping or leisure activities.

Northamptonshire, whilst remaining in Tier Two - ‘high alert’ - is currently flanked by a number of areas, which have been placed into Tier Three - ‘very high alert’ - on the COVID-19 alert level system. Northampton Chronicle and Echo 

See also:

• People in Milton Keynes dodge Tier 4 by flocking to shops and pubs in neighbouring Tier 2 Northamptonshire Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Lakeside Surgery 'ready to go' with Corby Covid vaccines next week after eleventh hours NHS hitch Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Social distancing and face masks may have to continue until 50% of the UK is vaccinated Northamptonshire Telegraph

Thousands still missing out on free flu jabs in Northamptonshire

Thousands still missing out on free flu jabs in Northamptonshire Doctors in Northamptonshire have issued another plea to thousands of people not to miss out on getting free flu jabs.

The NHS boosted numbers of free vaccinations available in a bid to avoid extra pressure on hospitals from people suffering with winter illnesses. Northampton Chronicle and Echo 

After the COVID storm: Where next for the NHS?

After the COVID storm: Where next for the NHS? What happens when the emergency phase of COVID is over? Has the pandemic set health and social care on a new course or will most things snap back to the way they were before?

In a global emergency we have to deal with the short term first, but what’s the long-term path for the NHS in particular? And what are the deeper threats and opportunities we should be thinking about? Podcast from The Health Foundation

The Anti-Vaxx Playbook: Exposing anti-vaxxers' deadly plan to disrupt Covid vaccines, and how we can stop them

The Anti-Vaxx Playbook: Exposing anti-vaxxers' deadly plan to disrupt Covid vaccines, and how we can stop them Anti-vaxxers met in private in late October 2020 to discuss their plans to disrupt the Covid vaccine. They didn't realise CCDH was there too. The Anti-Vaxx Playbook is our new report exposing their tactics, messages and use of social media. Our report explains how health experts, the public, tech giants and legislators can counter these harmful plans. Centre for Countering Digital Hate 

See also:

• Anti-vaxxers see Covid as ‘historic opportunity to create distrust in vaccines’, report warns The Independent

Science advice in a crisis

Science advice in a crisis This paper draws on interviews with key players including current and former officials, scientific advisers and SAGE members. It concludes ministers must improve the way they use and communicate science advice or risk repeating mistakes made during the coronavirus crisis. While ministers have faced extraordinarily difficult choices, the government’s response to the pandemic has too often been undermined by misunderstanding the role of science advice and using it inconsistently. Institute for Government

What is the goal of advanced telecare provision for older people?

What is the goal of advanced telecare provision for older people? This report suggests that there is a discrepancy in opinion about what telecare is for and the goals to be achieved, between telecare designers, suppliers, manufacturers, local authority commissioners, housing association managers, and the many others professionally engaged in rolling out telecare services. Housing LIN

State of health visiting in England

State of health visiting in England The iHV's seventh annual survey report (completed by 1012 health visitors from across the UK during October and November 2020) finds that health visitors are concerned that the needs of vulnerable babies and young children are invisible as they are only able to focus on what feels like the “tip of a very large iceberg” of unmet need, with almost two-thirds of health visitors reporting an increase in cases of child neglect. Four out of five health visitors report soaring increases in domestic violence and abuse, perinatal mental illness, and the negative impact of poverty on families. Institute of Health Visiting 

Guidance: Investigation of novel SARS-COV-2 variant: Variant of Concern 202012/01

Guidance: Investigation of novel SARS-COV-2 variant: Variant of Concern 202012/01 Technical briefing document on novel SARS-COV-2 variant. Public Health England 

See also:

• Detailed guide: Asymptomatic testing in schools and colleges Department of Health and Social Care
• Detailed guide: Tier 4: Stay at Home Department of Health and Social Care
• Latest Staff Council guidance on quarantine NHS Employers

Coronavirus: Impact of new variant on children investigated

Coronavirus: Impact of new variant on children investigated Scientists are urgently investigating hints the new variant of coronavirus spreads more easily in children.

If proven, this could account for "a significant proportion" of the increase in transmission, they say.

The claim comes from members of the government's New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats advisory group (Nervtag). BBC News

See also:

• Covid-19 tier 4 and Wales visitors to West Midlands 'must self-isolate'  BBC News
• Covid-19: More than 30 countries ban UK arrivals over Covid  BBC News
• Bedford woman 'lost hands and feet' as Covid led to sepsis  BBC News
• Where's next for Tier Four? The Daily Mail
• 'Professor Lockdown' Neil Ferguson warns Tier Four may be needed until Easter The Daily Mail
• 'Supercharged' Covid mutation was spotted in Brazil last spring The Daily Telegraph
• US President-Elect Joe Biden gets the Covid-19 vaccine live on TV The Daily Telegraph
• Delay school return in England by two weeks over Covid, union urges The Guardian
• New Covid variant in UK: spreading Christmas fear? The Guardian
• Calls for national lockdown in England to curb spread of new Covid strain The Guardian
• More Tier 4 Lockdowns 'Likely' As New Variant Causes Covid Surge, Says Patrick Vallance Huffington Post UK
• ‘Confident’ current vaccine works against mutant strain, but could be adapted in six weeks, says BioNTech chief The Independent
• Doctors and nurses at London’s frontline hospital denied coronavirus vaccine The Independent
• When will I get the Covid vaccine? Online calculator estimates your place in the queue The Independent

No ‘major disruptions’ to medicine supply expected due to border chaos, say pharma firms

No ‘major disruptions’ to medicine supply expected due to border chaos, say pharma firms Medicine supplies in the UK will not be disrupted as a result of the border restrictions placed on the UK by France, manufacturing firms have said.

The suspension of all travel and freight from the UK to France — as European states try to avoid importing the new strain of coronavirus into the continent — from Sunday night threw up serious concerns over supplies of medicine and fresh food. The Independent

Treatment plans at gender clinics have 'effectively stopped' for young trans people, warns clinician

Treatment plans at gender clinics have 'effectively stopped' for young trans people, warns clinician NHS England is clamping down on treatment options for young transgender people above and beyond legal requirement, an NHS clinician who treats them has warned.

Following a High Court decision earlier on this month which ruled that people under the age of 16 cannot consent to hormonal treatment, guidelines on NHS treatment options for young transgender people using the service have been under review. iNews

Northamptonshire's hospitals on high alert for Christmas after nine more Covid deaths

Northamptonshire's hospitals on high alert for Christmas after nine more Covid deaths "Most of our beds are full and we are under severe pressure," warns NGH chief executive.

Northamptonshire's two main hospitals are set to remain on a high level of operational alert all over Christmas. 

NHS England today confirmed nine more coronavirus deaths in the county in the space of two days this week. Northampton Chronicle and Echo

See also:

• These are the new Christmas rules across the UK Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Can I travel to a Tier Four area from Northamptonshire — or can my loved ones come to see me at Christmas? Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• NHS confirms 16 Covid deaths in five days at Northamptonshire hospitals Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Hundreds of Covid jabs cancelled at Northamptonshire's largest GP surgery Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Magistrates slap bigger fines on lockdown law-breakers from Northampton, Daventry and Towcester Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Covid vaccine hopes cruelly dashed as 'fridge failure' destroys doses at Rushden surgery Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Boris Johnson: 'We cannot continue with Christmas as planned' - what the PM said Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Northampton school head "deeply frustrated" as Covid test means kids must spend Christmas in isolation Northamptonshire Telegraph

Specialised supported housing: guidance for local government and NHS commissioners

Specialised supported housing: guidance for local government and NHS commissioners Supported housing is typically defined as a housing service where housing, support and/or care services are provided to help people to live as independently as possible. This is guidance for local government and NHS commissioners about a category of supported housing referred to as ‘Specialised Supported Housing’ (SSH), particularly lease-based models of SSH. Local Government Association

Cancer services recovery plan

Cancer services recovery plan One of the most significant impacts of the coronavirus pandemic was a sharp reduction in the number of people coming forward and being referred urgently with suspected cancer and referred from screening programmes. This report has several aims, including restoring demand at least to pre-pandemic levels and reducing the number of people waiting over 62 days from urgent referral. NHS England

New sites to test how connecting people with nature can improve mental health

New sites to test how connecting people with nature can improve mental health Seven sites which will test the ways in which connecting people with nature can improve mental wellbeing have been awarded a share of a £5.77 million pot, Environment Minister Rebecca Pow has announced. Department of Health and Social Care 

Statement from Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, about new strain of COVID-19

Statement from Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, about new strain of COVID-19 New strain of COVID-19 reported to World Health Organization. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• Guidance: Making a Christmas bubble with friends and family Department of Health and Social Care
• Detailed guide: Local restriction tiers: what you need to know Department of Health and Social Care
• Detailed guide: Full list of local restriction tiers by area Department of Health and Social Care
• Detailed guide: Tier 3: Very High alert Department of Health and Social Care
• Detailed guide: Tier 2: High alert Department of Health and Social Care
• Detailed guide: Tier 1: Medium alert Department of Health and Social Care
• COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2): information about the new virus variant Public Health England
• Guidance: National protocol for COVID-19 mRNA vaccine BNT162b2 (Pfizer/BioNTech) Public Health England 

Covid: Cases rise as Christmas rules come into force

Covid: Cases rise as Christmas rules come into force Coronavirus cases in the UK have risen by 35,928 - nearly double the number recorded last Sunday, figures show.

Public Health England medical director Yvonne Doyle said the "sharp" rise in cases was of "serious concern". 

It comes as Health Secretary Matt Hancock warned that a new variant of the virus was "getting out of control". BBC News

See also:

• NHS pressure 'at a really dangerous point' BBC News
• Covid-19: Christmas rules tightened for England, Scotland and Wales BBC News
• New coronavirus variant: What do we know? BBC News
• Coronavirus infections on the rise again BBC News
• Covid Christmas: What can you do to stay safe? BBC News
• Britain's Covid-19 R rate rises ABOVE crucial level of one The Daily Mail
• Oxford University scientist behind Covid vaccine hopes UK approval 'isn't too far off' The Daily Mail
• Length of Covid hospital stays exceed first wave average as NHS capacity nears brink The Daily Telegraph
• Boris Johnson speaks of 'heavy heart' as Christmas is sacrificed to protect the vulnerable The Daily Telegraph
• What is the new Covid-19 strain and will it respond to the vaccine? The Daily Telegraph
• Scientists race to ensure vaccine works against new variant - as it is confirmed in three other countries The Daily Telegraph
• Give NHS staff Covid vaccine now or face growing winter crisis, say hospital bosses The Guardian
• Oxford vaccine still under review, says UK medicine agency The Guardian
• Sadness, hope and love: revisiting the people who helped us report on the pandemic – podcast The Guardian
• Analysis: A virulent new strain of Covid-19 will mean more patients and sick staff for a battered NHS The Independent
• UK records highest ever one-day rise in coronavirus cases The Independent
• Coronavirus: Freight crisis as new strain leads France and European neighbours to ban travel from UK The Independent
• Government indecision is the UK’s greatest health threat The Independent
• Strong support for Tier 4 introduction and Christmas rules changes YouGov

Shortages of staff and equipment weigh on doctors’ decisions, survey reveals

 Shortages of staff and equipment weigh on doctors’ decisions, survey reveals Staff shortages and a lack of equipment are affecting the day-to-day decisions about patient care by doctors and nurses, a new YouGov survey has revealed. 

The representative survey of NHS clinicians revealed more than half, 54 per cent, admitted that factors such as a lack of staff played a role in their decisions about patients beyond what was in their best interests. The Independent

‘I wasn’t allowed to leave the room’: Restrictive practices in a psychiatric ward during coronavirus

‘I wasn’t allowed to leave the room’: Restrictive practices in a psychiatric ward during coronavirus Reducing restrictive practices (RP) has become one of the most ‘hated topics in psychiatry’, but it has become even harder in the pandemic. The Independent

Firm with mystery investors wins £200m of PPE contracts via 'high-priority lane'

Firm with mystery investors wins £200m of PPE contracts via 'high-priority lane' Exclusive: It’s unclear how PPE Medpro’s bids were processed through channel for firms referred by MPs and senior officials.

A company with mystery investors and links to the Isle of Man was awarded government contracts worth £200m to supply the UK with personal protective equipment (PPE) after it was placed in a “high-priority lane” for well-connected firms, the Guardian can reveal. The Guardian

Labour and unions criticise Matt Hancock over delays to NHS pay rise

Labour and unions criticise Matt Hancock over delays to NHS pay rise GMB lambasts health secretary for slipping out letter late on a Friday, saying staff will ‘rightly be angry’

Unions and the Labour leadership have criticised the health secretary over a delayed pay rise for NHS staff, as it was revealed that he had emphasised “affordability” must determine the size of healthcare workers’ wage increases.

In a letter to the NHS pay review body chair formally beginning the process on Friday, Matt Hancock repeatedly underlined that wage increases must be influenced by the country’s economic situation. The Guardian

See also:

• NHS Pay Review Body remit letter: 2021 to 2022 Department of Health and Social Care
• RCN responds to government remit letter to NHS pay review body Royal College of Nursing
• Government fails to 'turn warm words into deeds' – delaying a pay rise for NHS workers until 'next year'  Government fails to 'turn warm words into deeds' – delaying a pay rise for NHS workers until 'next year' Nursing Notes
• Hancock reveals 2021-22 pay rise for nurses will be 'unfortunately delayed' Nursing Times
• Public-sector pay freeze will hit those earning less than private counterparts – report The Guardian
• Public sector workers affected by the pay freeze next year already face a pay penalty compared to private sector staff in similar roles The Resolution Foundation
• Earnings Outlook Q4 2020: Public sector pay The Resolution Foundation

Covid-19: Northamptonshire was 'hair's breadth' from tier 3

Covid-19: Northamptonshire was 'hair's breadth' from tier 3 Northamptonshire was a "hair's breadth" away from being moved into tougher tier three Covid-19 restrictions, its director of public health said.

The county will remain under tier two rules, as it has been since England's second national lockdown ended. 

Lucy Wightman, director of Public Health Northamptonshire, said people should remain "vigilant". BBC Northampton

See also:

• Health chief reveals "significant increase" in Covid-19 outbreaks in Northamptonshire hospitals Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Seven more Covid deaths at Northampton Hospital as health chief warns: "We're living on a knife-edge" Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Care home workers claim they're not getting regular tests as Covid deaths rise in Northamptonshire Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Ambulance service volunteers help to vaccinate 500 patients at Northampton General Hospital Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Have you had Covid-19? Northamptonshire's hospitals need you to donate blood plasma Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Mass Covid tests to start for Northamptonshire school chidlren during first week of January Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• So, why did Northamptonshire remain in Tier Two under the Covid plan? Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Northamptonshire remains in Tier Two under Covid plan ... at least for now Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Hundreds take up Covid-19 vaccine at Thrapston surgery Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Wellingborough Covid vaccinations underway for over 80s Northamptonshire Telegraph

Mental health support 24-hour helpline launches in December across Northamptonshire

Mental health support 24-hour helpline launches in December across Northamptonshire Mental Health can affect us at any time, and the festive period and COVID-19 restrictions may have an impact our mental wellbeing this Christmas time. 

There is 24-hour mental health support available this December for anyone in need of immediate advice, including during a crisis. Northamptonshire Telegraph

Public perceptions of health and social care in light of COVID-19

Public perceptions of health and social care in light of COVID-19 The Health Foundation commissioned Ipsos MORI to carry out a survey of the general public in Great Britain to gather their views on a range of health and care issues in light of COVID-19. 

This polling data looks at the public’s attitudes towards the impact of coronavirus and Government’s handling of the pandemic. The data shows a number of changes in the public’s perceptions on these issues since July and May this year, when the first two rounds of this polling by Ipsos MORI were carried out.

See also:

• Majority of public support making Universal Credit uplift permanent The Health Foundation

Chart of the week: Covid-19 continues to disproportionately affect the health and wellbeing of disabled people

Chart of the week: Covid-19 continues to disproportionately affect the health and wellbeing of disabled people Each week we present analysis of data in chart form to illustrate some key issues and invite discussion. This week Camille Oung and Lauren Elias look at the effects of the pandemic on disabled people and find, as in so many other cases, that previously existing inequalities are being exacerbated by Covid-19. Nuffield Trust 

The remote care revolution in the NHS: understanding impacts and attitudes

The remote care revolution in the NHS: understanding impacts and attitudes This year’s QualityWatch animated scrolling data story explores the increased use of remote care in the NHS after the outbreak of Covid-19. This article explains the findings in more detail and discusses some of the implications for patients, clinicians and the NHS. Nuffield Trust 

Research and analysis: Surgical site infections (SSI) surveillance: NHS hospitals in England

Research and analysis: Surgical site infections (SSI) surveillance: NHS hospitals in England This annual report covers surgical site infection (SSI) data collected by NHS hospitals and independent sector NHS treatment centres. Public Health England

Detailed guide: Healthcare for EU citizens living in or moving to the UK from 1 January 2021

Detailed guide: Healthcare for EU citizens living in or moving to the UK from 1 January 2021 Information on accessing healthcare for citizens from EU countries, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland living in or moving to the UK from 1 January 2021. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• Detailed guide: Healthcare for visitors to the UK from the EU from 1 January 2021 Department of Health and Social Care
• Guidance: How charges for NHS hospital care will apply to overseas visitors from 1 January 2021 Department of Health and Social Care

Long COVID patients to get help at more than 60 clinics

Long COVID patients to get help at more than 60 clinics Thousands of patients suffering with the long term symptoms of coronavirus can now access specialist help at more than 60 sites, NHS England announced today.

The assessment centres are taking referrals from GPs for people experiencing brain fog, anxiety, depression, breathlessness, fatigue and other debilitating symptoms.

NHS England has provided £10 million for the network of clinics, which started opening last month. There are now 69 operating across the country with hundreds of patients already getting help. NHS England 

See also:

• COVID-19 rapid guideline: managing the long-term effects of COVID-19 NICE

Statement to Parliament: Oral statement on review of coronavirus tiering restrictions in England

Statement to Parliament: Oral statement on review of coronavirus tiering restrictions in England Oral statement by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on the outcome of the government's first formal review of tiering in England, which took place on 16 December 2020. Department of Health and Social Care 

See also:

• Detailed guide: Full list of local restriction tiers by area Department of Health and Social Care
• Staggered rollout of coronavirus testing for secondary schools and colleges Department of Health and Social Care
• Government publishes list of approved COVID-19 test providers Department of Health and Social Care
• Guidance: Safety of COVID-19 vaccines when given in pregnancy Public Health England
• COVID-19 infection rates in schools mirror rates in the community Public Health England
• Official Statistics: National flu and COVID-19 surveillance reports Public Health England
• Research and analysis: COVID-19 mental health and wellbeing surveillance: Spotlights Public Health England

Covid: Millions prepare for tougher restrictions amid rising cases

Covid: Millions prepare for tougher restrictions amid rising cases Millions of people across the UK are preparing for tougher coronavirus restrictions amid growing concern about the rising number of cases.

Some 38 million people in England will be subject to the nation's strictest measures - tier three - from Saturday. BBC News 

See also:

• Long Covid: Hospital patients to get checks at six weeks BBC News
• Covid cases in schools 'reflect community levels' BBC News
• Britain's Covid vaccination scheme needs to get FOUR TIMES quicker to meet target The Daily Mail
• Covid-19 was the leading cause of death in England in November The Daily Mail
• UK records 35,383 daily Covid cases after officials include 11,000 cases missed in Wales count The Daily Mail
• COVID-19 is THE leading cause of death in the U.S., study finds The Daily Mail
• NHS hospitals running out of beds as Covid cases continue to surge The Guardian
• Hancock pushes personal responsibility as parts of England enter Covid tier 3 – video The Guardian
• 'There are no good options': Britons torn over Christmas gatherings The Guardian
• Covid: tough UK restrictions to last until February at least, say experts The Guardian
• Oxford Covid vaccine is safe and effective, new data shows The Independent
• Coronavirus: More patients in English hospitals now than at November’s peak The Independent
• Covid cases rising in all but one region of England, and fastest in London The Independent
• COVID-19 vaccine rollout may be delayed - with IT system 'failing constantly' Sky News

Revealed: Nurses forced to use food banks as Covid and financial pressures drive many to brink of quitting

Revealed: Nurses forced to use food banks as Covid and financial pressures drive many to brink of quitting Over a third (39%) of nurses have skipped meals in order to feed their family or to save money as financial and Covid pressures force many to the brink of quitting the NHS, a survey seen by ITV News has revealed.

For nurses from an ethnic minority background the situation is even bleaker, with over half (61%) admitting to missing meals owing to money worries. 

See also:

• Stressed, overworked nurses are missing meals to pay bills Nursing Notes

Clapped-out kit, long delays, too few beds and staff: NHS enters 2021 in a sorry state

Clapped-out kit, long delays, too few beds and staff: NHS enters 2021 in a sorry state The health service was struggling even before the pandemic. It now faces the spectre of perpetual crisis

Think 2020 has been awful for the NHS? Next year is shaping up to be far worse – and most of the huge hole it’s in was dug long before Covid. The virus has merely finished off the job.

The health service does not have the beds, staff or equipment to recover the ground it lost during the first two waves of the coronavirus pandemic, but the government is blocking desperately needed improvements, and another round of organisational upheaval is on its way. The Guardian

Clean air zones to tackle traffic pollution delayed or on hold

Clean air zones to tackle traffic pollution delayed or on hold Local authorities deferring schemes to reduce toxic emissions as calls rise to put WHO targets into UK law.

Measures to tackle illegal air pollution, which kills tens of thousands of people a year in the UK, are being delayed or shelved despite growing evidence of the health risks.

Several local authorities have deferred or put a hold on the introduction of clean air zones, which are designed to reduce toxic air from traffic in town and city centres. The Guardian

UK teenagers far more overweight than previous generations

UK teenagers far more overweight than previous generations More than a third of teenagers in the UK begin their adult life already overweight or obese, disturbing new reseach has revealed.

Scientists have found that one in five (21%) young people were obese at age 17, and a further one in seven (14%) were overweight. The Daily Telegraph

See also:

• Poorer teens at substantially greater risk of obesity Centre for Longitudinal Studies
• Obesity prevalence and its inequality from childhood to adolescence Initial findings from the Millennium Cohort Study Age 17 Survey Centre for Longitudinal Studies

Northamptonshire care homes back in spotlight after spike in coronavirus deaths

Northamptonshire care homes back in spotlight after spike in coronavirus deaths Northamptonshire’s care homes are under more scrutiny following a sharp rise in coronavirus deaths.

Regulatory body the Care Quality Commission has reported 30 deaths linked to Covid-19 in county care homes during a 19-day period between November 23 and December 11. Northamptonshire Telegraph

See also:

• Covid-19: Latest figures for Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Northamptonshire BBC Beds, Bucks & Herts
• Matt Hancock will announce the results of the latest Covid tier review today Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• NHS confirms 16 Covid deaths in five days at Northamptonshire hospitals Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• When is the Covid tier review announcement? Northamptonshire waits to find out its fate from central Government Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Kettering drive-thru Covid vaccine hub up and running Northamptonshire Telegraph

Tens of thousands missed out on life-saving cancer scans at Northamptonshire hospitals this year

Tens of thousands missed out on life-saving cancer scans at Northamptonshire hospitals this year Tens of thousands of people missed out on potentially life-saving scans at Northamptonshire hospitals when non-Covid NHS services were cancelled during the pandemic.

Northampton and Kettering hospitals carried out 71,610 fewer scans between April and September compared to the same period in 2019, analysis by the BBC Shared Data Unit, which this newspaper is part of, found. Northamptonshire Telegraph

Teen mental health unit in Northampton has 'shown improvements'

Teen mental health unit in Northampton has 'shown improvements' A mental health hospital for children and teenagers that was threatened with closure has "shown improvements", health inspectors said.

St Andrew's Healthcare Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) has left special measures and is now rated as "requires improvement" by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). BBC Northampton

See also:

• Northamptonshire children's mental health service taken out of special measures but inspectors still have concerns Northampton Chronicle and Echo 

Placement of nasogastric tubes

Placement of nasogastric tubes This investigation report looks at nasogastric tubes and how previously identified safety improvements for the placement of these tubes are put into practice.

Nasogastric (NG) tubes are used to deliver fluid, food and medication to patients via a tube that passes through the nose and down into the stomach. There is a risk of serious harm and risk to life if NG tubes are incorrectly placed into the lungs, rather than the stomach, and feed is passed through them. Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch

See also:

• NHS guidance ‘too long to read,’ say hospital staff as safety watchdog exposes systemic risks to patients The Independent

Transformation of urgent and emergency care: models of care and measurement

Transformation of urgent and emergency care: models of care and measurement This report sets out the recommendations from the clinically-led review of NHS access standards for urgent and emergency care. NHS England

New poll finds BAME groups less likely to want COVID vaccine

New poll finds BAME groups less likely to want COVID vaccine New polling commissioned by the Royal Society for Public Health has revealed that three in four (76%) of the UK public would take a COVID-19 vaccine if advised to do so by their GP or health professional, with just 8% stating they would be very unlikely to do so. The findings reiterate just how much trust the public has in NHS professionals, showing that most people are more than happy to get a vaccine providing they are getting the right information from the right source.

However, of particular concern were findings that 57% of respondents from Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds (199 respondents) were likely to accept a COVID-19 vaccine, compared to 79% of White respondents. Confidence was lowest among respondents of Asian ethnicity, of whom 55% were likely to say yes.

See also:

• Hesitancy about the Covid-19 vaccine is ‘disproportionately high’ among Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups The King's Fund
• People from ethnic minorities less likely to accept Covid vaccine, says poll The Guardian

Prevalence of long COVID symptoms and COVID-19 complications

Prevalence of long COVID symptoms and COVID-19 complications Experimental estimates of the prevalence and duration of long COVID symptoms, and rates of adverse events for hospitalised coronavirus (COVID-19) patients compared with those for matched control patients. Office for National Statistics

See also:

• Coronavirus: 'Long Covid' impact estimated BBC News
• One in 10 suffer from 'long Covid' three months after recovering The Daily Mail
• Coronavirus: one in 10 patients have symptoms lasting three months or more The Independent

More than 137,000 people in UK receive first dose of COVID vaccine in one week

More than 137,000 people in UK receive first dose of COVID vaccine in one week The majority of the vaccines have been administered to the over-80s, care home workers and NHS staff through more than 70 sites across the UK. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• Community testing offer rolled out to highest risk Tier 2 areas Department of Health and Social Care
• Policy paper: Community testing Department of Health and Social Care

Covid and vitamin D: 'Not enough evidence' for treatment

Covid and vitamin D: 'Not enough evidence' for treatment There is not enough evidence that vitamin D supplements protect people against Covid-19, an expert panel says.

Made up of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, Public Health England and the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition, it said more research was needed.

But everyone is still advised to take a daily supplement this winter to keep bones and muscles healthy. BBC News

See also:

• COVID-19 rapid guideline: vitamin D NICE
• Independent report: SACN rapid review: Vitamin D and acute respiratory tract infections Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition
• Covid Christmas risk 'hard to control' BBC News
• Covid vaccine: More than 130,000 vaccinated in UK in first week BBC News
• Coronavirus doctor's diary: 'Have I got Covid for a second time?' BBC News
• Vaccine doctors on TikTok: 'Come for the fun, stay for the science' BBC News
• Covid: Cancer scan backlog raises late detection fears BBC News
• PM is told NO areas should be dropped from Three to Two in new review The Daily Mail
• UK's daily Covid cases continue to rise with 25,161 more positive tests The Daily Mail
• Boris Johnson defends UK Christmas bubble chaos The Daily Mail
• New Covid strain has 17 mutations, scientist say The Daily Mail
• UK to stick with relaxed Christmas Covid rules but nations split on guidance The Guardian
• UK Covid Christmas: what the law says and what the four nations say The Guardian
• UK Covid death toll rises to more than 65,000 The Independent

Ella Kissi-Debrah: Air pollution a factor in girl's death, inquest finds

Ella Kissi-Debrah: Air pollution a factor in girl's death, inquest finds A nine-year-old girl who died following an asthma attack has become the first person in the UK to have air pollution listed as a cause of death.

Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, who lived near the South Circular Road in Lewisham, south-east London, died in 2013.

Southwark Coroner's Court found that air pollution "made a material contribution" to Ella's death. BBC News

See also:

• Inside the case to prove air pollution contributed to death of nine-year-old Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah The Independent
• Ella Kissi-Debrah inquest: Coroner says air pollution contributed to death of nine-year-old in landmark ruling The Independent
• Air pollution is deadly – now it’s official. This is a wake-up call for serious action The Independent

Nurses leaving the NHS – the consequences of COVID

Nurses leaving the NHS – the consequences of COVID A third of nurses in the UK are considering leaving the profession due to burnout and exhaustion as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

In this episode of the Sky News Daily Podcast, host Jayne Secker speaks to Anthony Johnson, a nurse in London, about the effects the COVID-19 crisis has had on him; and Rachael Browning, who's in charge of nurse recruitment at the Warrington NHS Trust. 

NHS hospital trusts told to rethink pregnant women partner ban

NHS hospital trusts told to rethink pregnant women partner ban Fresh guidance issued after growing outrage about women being forced to go through labour alone

Hospital trusts have been ordered by the NHS to review their current rules and allow pregnant women to have their partner present throughout scans, labour and birth. The Guardian

Unicef steps in to feed British children for the first time in its history

Unicef steps in to feed British children for the first time in its history Unicef is helping to feed hungry children in the UK as part of the charity's first domestic emergency response in its 70-year history.

Some 1,800 families struggling as a result of the coronavirus pandemic will receive breakfast boxes over the Christmas school holidays, the charity School Food Matters said. The Daily Telegraph

Ten more coronavirus deaths recorded across Northamptonshire

Ten more coronavirus deaths recorded across Northamptonshire The number of coronavirus deaths in Northamptonshire rose by ten as pressure on the Government to rethink plans for a Christmas relaxation in restrictions grew. Northampton Chronicle and Echo 

See also:

• Northamptonshire hospitals 'struggling for capacity' as coronavirus patient numbers surpass first wave peak ITV News
• Four areas of Northamptonshire where Covid cases are rising...and eight where they are dropping fast Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Boris needs to rethink plans to allow Christmas get-togethers, warns Northamptonshire health chief Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Doctors tell people to wait for COVID-19 vaccine as Northamptonshire’s first GP practices start vaccinating Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Hotel blames religious group for 'major breach' at Northampton 'wedding reception' which cost organiser £10,000 Covid fine Northamptonshire Telegraph

Reforming the finances of the NHS

Reforming the finances of the NHS A new financial architecture for the NHS requires coherence and balance, and a recognition that any national financial strategy will be heavily mediated by the quality of local relationships. Our new long read discusses how lessons from the recent history of NHS finances can help the system plan for the future. The King's Fund 

Newham Health Champions: a community-shaped response to Covid-19

Newham Health Champions: a community-shaped response to Covid-19  Newham’s Covid-19 Health Champions programme, which aims to have open and honest conversations with communities about the latest Covid-19 advice, the situation in Newham, what people are experiencing and what they need. The King's Fund 

A guide to promoting health care workforce well-being during and after the Covid-19 pandemic

A guide to promoting health care workforce well-being during and after the Covid-19 pandemic This guide provides ideas and lessons learned to improve the wellbeing of the health care workforce, including actions that individuals, leaders, and organisations can take to support the health care workforce during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. It aims to support health care leaders at all levels with actionable tools for combatting health care workforce burnout, fatigue, and emotional distress. Institute for Healthcare Improvement 

Unlimited potential: report of the Commission of Gender Stereotypes in Early Childhood

Unlimited potential: report of the Commission of Gender Stereotypes in Early Childhood This report warns that harmful gender stereotypes are significantly limiting children’s potential, causing problems such as lower self-esteem in girls and poorer reading skills in boys. It finds that stereotypes contribute towards the mental health crisis among children and young people, are at the root of girls’ problems with body image and eating disorders, higher male suicide rates and violence against women and girls. Fawcett Society

Investigation into preparations for potential COVID-19 vaccines

Investigation into preparations for potential COVID-19 vaccines Today the National Audit Office (NAO) reports that government has worked quickly to secure potential COVID-19 vaccines, successfully signing deals for five vaccines providing up to 267 million doses at an expected cost of £2.9 billion.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) chose to purchase different types of vaccines from a range of pharmaceutical companies, to create a diverse set of options, recognising the uncertainty over which ones, if any, might prove to be safe and effective. It originally intended to purchase up to 12 vaccines, later reducing the number to up to nine as its understanding of requirements and costs developed.

NHS seeks views on next steps for assessing urgent care

NHS seeks views on next steps for assessing urgent care Patients, clinicians and the public are being invited to give their views on a comprehensive set of indicators for urgent care.

The updated standards aim to capture what matters clinically and to patients, end hidden waits and reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. NHS England

See also:

• NHS England reveals plans to replace A&E waiting time target The Independent

Government takes forward plans to cut gender pay gap in medicine

Government takes forward plans to cut gender pay gap in medicine The Health and Social Care Secretary has today committed to tackle the gender pay gap among doctors by making the NHS a more equal place to work, as an independent report finds structural barriers are the main reason for pay disparities. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• Independent report: Independent review into gender pay gaps in medicine in England Department of Health and Social Care