Bancroft Medical Centre

We understand there is concern following recent reports of meningitis cases. We would like to reassure you and provide clear guidance.

Are meningitis vaccines available at the GP surgery?

The NHS already provides protection against the most common types of meningitis through routine childhood and school vaccinations, including:

• MenB (for babies)
• MenACWY (given in school – Year 9)
• Other routine childhood vaccines (e.g. Hib, pneumococcal)

These vaccines are offered only at specific ages as part of the NHS schedule.

Can I request the meningitis vaccine for my child?

We can only offer vaccines if your child is eligible under the NHS schedule or if there is a specific medical reason.

If your child is eligible, you will be contacted or it will show on our system.

We are not able to offer additional or early vaccinations outside of this guidance.

More Info: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/vaccination/

Chickenpox vaccine

The chickenpox vaccine is given as part of routine childhood vaccinations (MMRV).
It is not available as a separate vaccine at the GP surgery.

More Info: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/mmrv-vaccine/

What should I do if I’m worried about meningitis? 

Meningitis can be serious. Please seek urgent medical help if you or your child has:

• A high temperature
• A rash that does not fade when pressed
• Neck stiffness
• Sensitivity to light
• Confusion or drowsiness

👉 Call 111 for advice or 999 in an emergency.

More Info: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/symptoms/

You and Your General Practice is a national guide on what you can expect from your GP surgery. It also explains what you can do to get the best from the NHS

Our online system is the fastest and most effective way to reach us, whether you need medical advice or support with administrative requests.

✅ Use "Questions and Admin" for:

Please select this option only for Routine request and non-medical requests, such as:

• 📄 Doctor’s letter or report

• 📝 Referral query

• 🧾 Sick note / Fit note request

• 💊 Repeat prescription request or❓ Medication queries

• 🔍 Test results

• 🌍 Travel risk assessment

• 🧑‍💻 Update your personal details

• 💌 Register for electronic prescriptions (EPS)

🩺 Use "I Need Medical Advice" for:

Select this option only if you're feeling unwell or have a health concern that isn’t related to the above list, such as:

• 🤕 Headaches or migraines

• 🌸 Women’s health issues

• 💙 Men’s health concerns

• 😴 Sleep issues

• 🦴 Joint pain or skin condition

• Requesting New Fit note 

• Any other new or ongoing symptoms

💬 This helps us get your request to the right team faster and avoid delays in your care.