Practice closure dates
Our practice sites are closed every Wednesday between the times of 12.30pm - 2.30pm.
Planned Half Day Training
- Wednesday 12th February 2025 - 12.30pm to 6.30pm
If you need a assistance on these training afternoons please telephone the normal practice number on 01460 67763 or NHS 111.
Why does the practice close, is this really necessary?
The surgery closes for one afternoon usually every 3 months. This enables the clinical and admin team to attend vital training and updates. This happens across all practices in Somerset (and in fact most of the country). Without this protected time to learn, clinical staff would not have the opportunity to attend vital updates as part of their training.
What do staff learn about?
Throughout the year the topics cover many key clinical subjects relevant to the health care needs of Chard. These include cancer, dementia, mental health, respiratory disease, dermatology, musculoskeletal conditions, end of life care, and cardiology etc. Nursing staff sometimes join the GPs or have their own specialist training on subjects such as long term conditions management, wound care, infection control and vaccinations/immunisations. Office and reception staff sometimes attend centrally run training courses too, or they remain in the practice and have training with the practice manager or with specialist trainers the surgery brings in.
Can the training be carried out during surgery time?
Training is organised centrally so that it includes both practice sites at the same time. We ensure that when planning routine appointments the half day protected training is taken into consideration. The disruption to patient is minimal. Closing the practice ensures that all staff can attend these sessions.
What GP cover is in place for these days, what if I need a doctor?
GP cover for any matters that cannot wait until the next day is provided by the NHS 111. Out of hours doctors from outside the area are on call via the 111 service. Any life threatening incidents should be dealt with through 999, as patients would normally. Patients are reminded that the GP surgery is not an emergency service.
Is this new?
No, the half day closures have been happening for many years.
Bank Holidays
- New Years Day – Wednesday 1st January 2025
- Good Friday – Friday 18th April 2025
- Easter Monday – Monday 21st April 2025
- Early May – Monday 5th May 2025
- Spring Bank Holiday – Monday 26th May 2025
- Summer bank holiday – Monday 25th August 2025
- Christmas Day – Thursday 25th December 2025
- Boxing Day – Friday 26th December 2025