Potterells Pulse Summer 2026 

 

Welcome to the Summer Edition of Potterells Pulse, our patient newsletter. We aim to keep you informed about practice news, services, health campaigns, seasonal advice and opportunities to support your health and wellbeing.

Welcome from the Practice Manager

As we head into the summer months, I would like to thank all our patients for their continued support and understanding during our first year of Total Triage.

In this edition, you will find updates from the practice, information about local services, seasonal health advice and opportunities to support your wellbeing. 

We hope you find this newsletter useful and informative and wish you a happy, healthy and enjoyable summer. 

Tracey 
Practice Manager

 

At a Glance - Summer dates for your diary

  • Carer's Support Group: First Friday of every month 2.15pm to 3.45pm at United Reformed Church, Brookmans Park
  • Brookmans Park Health Walks: Every Thursday 10.30am, Meet outside The Brookmans Pub
  • OPALS (Older Persons Activities and Learning Service) Event:  Friday 26th June 10.00am to 2.00pm at Wyllyotts Theatre, Potters Bar
 

Looking Ahead

Practice Capacity and Local Developments

We have received a number of questions about planned housing developments within our patient catchment area and what this may mean for local healthcare services.

Our practice continually reviews patient demand to ensure that everyone can access the care they need. Around two-thirds of our patients are local residents, while the remainder are students who are cared for through our University satellite surgery.

Thanks to our Total Triage system, patients who require same-day medical attention can continue to be assessed and directed to the most appropriate clinician or service.

Like many GP practices across the country, demand for healthcare services continues to grow.

We are planning ahead to ensure that Potterells remains able to meet the needs of our patients as our community develops over the coming years. We are already working closely with NHS colleagues and local partners to explore options for future service provision. These include:

  • Expanding our existing premises where possible
  • Making greater use of community facilities for some services
  • Developing new ways of delivering care
  • Careful management of patient registrations and resources

Our priority remains unchanged: providing safe, accessible and high-quality care for all our patients. We will continue to keep patients informed as plans develop.

 

Planning for a Growing Community

The Welwyn Hatfield Local Plan includes proposals for new housing within Brookmans Park and Welham Green over the coming years.

Current housing allocations include:

  • Brookmans Park – 452 homes
  • Welham Green – 316 homes
  • Total planned homes: 768

As these developments are completed, they are likely to bring new residents and increased demand for local services, including healthcare.

Potterells Medical Centre continues to work with NHS partners and local organisations to ensure future healthcare needs are recognised and considered as part of wider community planning.

 

Total Triage: One Year On

It has now been one year since we introduced Total Triage to help manage appointment requests safely and efficiently.

Over the past year, Total Triage has helped us ensure that patients with the greatest clinical need are prioritised appropriately while making the best use of our clinical resources.

Every request is reviewed by a clinician and prioritised according to clinical need.

Patients can contact us by:

  • Completing our online consultation form (preferred)
  • Speaking to a member of our reception team

The system helps ensure that patients receive the right care, from the right professional, at the right time.

Need Help?

If you are unable to use online services, please telephone the surgery and a member of our team will complete the form on your behalf. Members of the Patient Group (PPG) may also be able to assist. Please speak to reception for further information.

 

Some of the services available at Potterells

Many patients are unaware of the range of support available through the practice. In addition to GP and nursing services, we have specialist teams who can help with health, wellbeing and practical support.

Personalised Care Team

  • Support with managing long-term health conditions
  • Help understanding treatment options
  • Guidance on accessing local services and support

Social Prescribing Team

  • Financial wellbeing and budgeting support
  • Benefits advice and entitlement checks
  • Bereavement support
  • Support for loneliness and social isolation
  • Family and domestic abuse support
  • Support for carers and older people
  • Connections with community organisations

Health and Wellbeing Coaches

  • Setting realistic health goals
  • Weight management and nutrition
  • Increasing physical activity
  • Managing stress
  • Improving emotional wellbeing
 

Carers' Support Group

We recognise the invaluable contribution carers make within our community.

  • Our monthly carers' sessions offer:
  • An opportunity to meet other carers
  • Friendly conversation and refreshments
  • Advice from Social Prescribers and PPG members
  • Information about local support services

When: First Friday of every month 2.15pm yo 3.45pm
Where: United Reformed Church, Oaklands Avenu,e Brookmans Park, AL9 7UW

Everyone is welcome.

 

Brookmans Park Health Walks

Looking for a simple way to improve your health and meet new people?

Join the free weekly wellbeing walks organised by Hertfordshire Health Walks.

When: Every Thursday at 10.30am
Meeting Point: Outside The Brookmans Pub, Bradmore Green, Brookmans Park, AL9 7QW

Walk Options:

  • Short Walk: 1.5–2 miles
  • Longer Walk: Approximately 3 miles

No booking required. All abilities welcome.

 

OPALS (Older Persons Activities and Learning Service) Event

Supporting Older People

Venue: Wyllyotts Theatre, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 2HZ
Date: Friday 26th June Time: 10.00am to 2.00pm

The event provides information and support to help older residents remain safe, independent and connected.

Topics include:

  • Health and wellbeing
  • Home safety
  • Community support services
  • Reducing loneliness and social isolation

Please share this information with anyone who may benefit.

 

How the Fire Service Can Help

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service provides free Safe and Well Visits for vulnerable residents.

During a visit they can:

  • Identify fire risks within the home
  • Provide practical safety advice
  • Check or install smoke alarms
  • Support independent living and home safety

Please contact the practice if you think you or someone you know may benefit.

 

Summer Health Tips

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, particularly during hot weather.
  • Be Sun Safe: Use SPF30 or higher sunscreen, wear a hat and seek shade during peak sunlight hours.
  • Keep Active: Exercise during cooler parts of the day and remember to take water with you.
  • Protect Against Insects: Use insect repellent when outdoors and check for ticks after countryside walks.
  • Eat Well: Make the most of seasonal fruit and vegetables.
  • Look After Your Wellbeing: Spend time outdoors, stay connected with friends and family and make time for activities you enjoy.
 

Potterells Patient Group (PPG)

The Patient Group works alongside the practice to help improve services and support our local community. Members meet every 6–8 weeks with practice representatives, including the Practice Manager and clinicians. New members are always welcome. Interested in joining? Please leave your details with reception and a member of the group will contact you.

 

Your Feedback Matters

Patient feedback helps us improve the services we provide. Please complete the Friends and Family Test following your appointment or contact with the practice. Your comments help us understand what we are doing well and where we can improve.

Published: Jul 1, 2026