Spring Newsletter April 2026

Welcome to our Spring 2026 newsletter. As we move into warmer months, we are pleased to share updates about our services, vaccination advice, and a spotlight on our International Induction Programme GP placements. Thank you, as always, for treating our team with kindness while we support our community.

How to contact us — new from 1 April 2026

Following the new GP Contract, we have made changes to help you get care more quickly. All contact routes — phone, online, or in person — are treated equally and added to our system

We know telephone wait times can be long and we are actively working to improve this. If you need to change or cancel an appointment, please give as much notice as possible so we can offer your slot to another patient.

Refurbishment works

We're pleased to report that work is well underway to refit the closed ground floor corridor. Once finished, work will then begin on the rest of the ground floor — we hope it is all finished soon. Thank you for your patience.

What's new at the practice

We have recently introduced several new services for our patients. All of the following are available by GP referral — please speak to your doctor if you think you may benefit.

• Toenail Cutting Service: Referral only — speak to your GP to check eligibility
• Microsuction (Ear Wax Removal):  Referral only — speak to your GP to check eligibility
• Cryotherapy Service: Referral only — speak to your GP to check eligibility
• Travel Clinic: Ask at reception or contact the practice for more information

Stay protected this spring

Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you. The following programmes are currently active.

International Induction Programme

The International Induction Programme (IIP) supports qualified GPs from overseas to safely and confidently begin practising in the UK. Through supervised practice, tailored learning, and ongoing assessment, the IIP helps internationally trained doctors adapt to NHS systems and clinical guidelines while continuing to deliver high-quality patient care.

For our practice, the programme strengthens our capacity to provide timely appointments and continuity of care. It also brings diverse perspectives and expertise that enrich the care we deliver to our community. We are proud to support our IIP doctors on their journey into UK general practice.

• Dr Lucy Aitchison - "I feel so lucky to be able to work at the Caversham. The support has been amazing from every single member of the staff. There couldn't be a better introduction to UK General Practice!"
• Dr Abbirami Linghanathan - "It has been such a pleasure to receive such a wonderfully warm welcome from everyone in the practice. I'm excited to continue to learn from all my colleagues."

The NHS App

Did you know you can manage much of your care online? Download the NHS App and register to access a range of services from your phone or computer.

• Order repeat prescriptions
• View test results
• Access your medical records
• Check your appointments

Need help? Get step-by-step guidance.

Coming up

Digital Inclusion Drop-in — free NHS App support

• Every other wednesday from 1 April
• 10:30am to 12:30pm
• Caversham Group Practice waiting room

Patient Participation Group (PPG) meeting

• Wednesday 6 May 
• From 5pm
• All patients welcome

Published: May 6, 2026