UKHSA issues red heat-health alert for the South West
23 June 2026
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a red heat-health (HHA) for the South West from 01:00am on Wednesday 24 June until 11:00pm on Thursday 25 June.
This is the second time a red HHA has been issued, the first having been issued in July 2022.
A red heat-health alert indicates that a severe heatwave could have impacts beyond health and social care with potential effects on transport systems, food, water, energy supplies and businesses, and indicates a risk to life for even the healthy population.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) will continue to work closely with the Met Office, the NHS and other government departments to assess the impacts of this hot weather.
The South West’s coastline, rivers and open water also present additional risks during hot weather. Cold-water shock can affect even strong swimmers when entering cold water on a hot day, and water-related incidents typically increase during periods of high temperature.
People are advised to swim only at designated, supervised locations and to keep a close eye on children near any open water.
Sarah Bird, Lead Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA South West, said:
“Very hot weather is forecast across the South West in the coming days and we are urging health and social care services across the country to ensure they are prepared. It is vitally important that people understand the risk posed by high temperatures like these, and take steps to keep themselves and their friends, families and neighbours safe.
“A red heat health alert indicates a risk to life for even the healthy population, but simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool can make a big difference. It’s also important to look out for others, especially elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions, to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.”
UKHSA guidance on staying safe in hot weather is available online. There you can find a full list of the groups who are especially at risk, as well as advice on keeping yourself and others safe during periods of hotter weather, such as:
• keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
• look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
• stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
• drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
• never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
• check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly
• try to avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest. If you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
• walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
• avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
• make sure you take water with you if you are travelling
• take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down
• check medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packaging
• if you are going to do a physical activity (for example, exercising or walking the dog), plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler, such as the morning or evening. Also check weather forecasts to see when it will be cooler
More information on common symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else experiences them are available on NHS.UK.
Avon LOC Latest News
Avon LOC AGM & Education Evening – Wednesday 6th May 2026
To All local Contractors & Performers in the Avon LOC area: Notification of Annual General Meeting The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Avon LOC will be held on Wednesday 6th May, 630pm at Bristol & Bath Science Park, Dirac Cres, Bristol BS16 7FR The evening will begin with a buffet and finish with a CPD lecture – more details …
Continue reading “Avon LOC AGM & Education Evening – Wednesday 6th May 2026”
25 March 2026
Meet the Committee – Andrew Edwards
With over 15 years on the Avon LOC committee — including time as Vice Chair and now as BaNES Lead — Andrew Edwards has seen significant change in community eye care. We caught up with him to reflect on how things have evolved, what he’s most proud of, and what he thinks the future …
Continue reading “Meet the Committee – Andrew Edwards”
16 March 2026
Newmedica CPD Event – Eye‑dentify – Trichiasis vs Entropion
(Hosted by Newmedica Bristol Tuesday 28 April 2026, 18:00–21:00) Avon LOC members are warmly invited to attend Newmedica Bristol’s next CPD event at their Aztec West clinic. This 3‑point interactive workshop is designed for optometrists and dispensing opticians who want to strengthen their confidence in recognising and managing trichiasis and entropion in primary care. The session focuses on practical differentiation between …
Continue reading “Newmedica CPD Event – Eye‑dentify – Trichiasis vs Entropion”
11 March 2026
Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World – Glaucoma Awareness Week 2026 Monday 9th March marks the start of World Glaucoma Week, as we come together to fight for a glaucoma-free future. Organised by the World Glaucoma Association, the week invites patients, eye care providers, health officials and the public to join forces in creating …
9 March 2026
Optoversity Challenge 2026
📣 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED THIS SATURDAY! 👀💙 Volunteers are needed for the Optoversity Challenge 2026 in Thornbury (Bristol) on Saturday 7th February This fun, inter‑university competition raises vital funds for Vision Care, a charity providing eye care support for people affected by homelessness. 🏥✨ Volunteers are needed to be: 📝 Mock assessors 🧑⚕️ Mock patients 🤝 …
Continue reading “Optoversity Challenge 2026”
3 February 2026
PES CPD Workshops: Quality, Professionalism & EDI – 6 Interactive Points Available
Primary Eyecare Services has shared details of two upcoming online discussion workshops offering a total of 6 interactive CPD points for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians. Both sessions use real case studies and breakout‑room discussion to support reflective learning and good practice within enhanced eyecare services. 1. Quality & Professionalism in Enhanced Eye Care Services A …
13 January 2026
PES Update: New OPERA Functionality for Amending Referral Appointment Dates
PES Update: New OPERA Functionality for Amending Referral Appointment Dates PES has shared an update regarding new functionality within OPERA that may be helpful for practices delivering commissioned services. Practices and practitioners are now able to amend appointment dates for the following services directly within OPERA: Post Cataract Integrated Children’s Service Glaucoma Monitoring Pre‑Cataract Referral …
Continue reading “PES Update: New OPERA Functionality for Amending Referral Appointment Dates”
12 January 2026
Myopia Control in the Southwest Survey – UWE Students
Please see the following request: Dear all, We are third-year optometry students conducting a dissertation study titled “An exploration of myopia control practice in the South West.” We would like to invite you to take part in our anonymised online survey. The questionnaire takes approximately 10–15 minutes to complete. Please read the Participant Information Sheet …
Continue reading “Myopia Control in the Southwest Survey – UWE Students”
5 January 2026
NHS England Issues Update on GOS Payments
NHS England has issued an update on general ophthalmic services (GOS) fees and payments, including changes to the NHS sight test fee, the 2024 continuing professional development (CPD) payment, and the clinical placement training payment effective from 1 April 2025. Practices are advised to share this information with all staff involved in GOS delivery, including …
Continue reading “NHS England Issues Update on GOS Payments”
5 January 2026
Practice Plus Group Webinar Calendar 2026
Practice Plus Group has announced its 2026 calendar of ophthalmology webinars, delivered online via Microsoft Teams. Each session offers CPD points and is tailored to support clinical decision-making and enhance optometric practice. Brief details of the upcoming sessions are below. For speaker information and registration links, please visit our Events Page. Upcoming Webinars Interpreting Macular …
Continue reading “Practice Plus Group Webinar Calendar 2026”
18 December 2025