Down at the Doctors October 2026

Posted on January 29th, 2024

We are slowly coming to terms with the loss of our much-loved colleague and friend, Dr Natalie Jennings, who sadly passed away following a very short illness on 31st August 2026.

I have written a tribute to Natalie on our website, and we also created a book of condolence for patients and staff to leave messages, memories and a few words for her family. Thank you to all the patients who have contacted us to offer their support and condolences to Natalie’s family and to all of us at the practice. Many of you have brought in cards and flowers, and made donations, all of which we will pass on to her children.

Natalie was someone who always brought energy, humour and positivity to the practice. The one thing she would not have wanted would be for us to mope around and be sad. She would have told us, in no uncertain terms, “business as usual!”

So, with that in mind, we will continue to do what Natalie would have wanted us to do, look after our patients, support one another and carry on.

With that said, I am handing over to Colin Brookbanks, Chair of the Jack May Trust Fund, who would like to update you on some of the Trust’s recent achievements and the ways in which it continues to support Much Hadham Health Centre and our patients.

Jack May Trust Fund
Charity Commission No. 1088104

It has now been more than 20 years that patients of Much Hadham Health Centre have benefitted from the Trust, and this seems an appropriate time to highlight some of its more recent achievements.

Practice Information Leaflets
The Practice Manager, Andrew Wilkinson, produced an excellent and informative new leaflet reflecting changes within the NHS, including updated staff details and expanded patient facilities.

Dispensary
The installation of air conditioning was very well received by both staff and patients, particularly as it coincided with a period of exceptionally hot weather.

Checking-in System
A new touch-screen system has been installed, enabling patients to check in for appointments quickly and efficiently within the waiting area.

Vaccination Clinics
Vaccination clinics are typically held at Little Hadham Village Hall to accommodate the large number of attendees for COVID-19 and flu vaccinations. With approximately 7,000 registered patients at the Health Centre, the Trust has provided highly visible road signage to help ease traffic congestion during these sessions.

Additional Equipment
The Trust continues to support the practice through the provision of essential equipment, including weighing scales, ear irrigation equipment, and the recent replacement of an outdated examination couch.

Donations
We are extremely grateful to all those who have supported the Trust through donations, whether large or small. Legacies have played an important role over the years. An additional option for donating is through a Deed of Variation, allowing beneficiaries of a will to redirect funds to a charity or individual. This process is straightforward and does not require professional assistance.

Trustees
We are currently seeking a new Trustee following the resignation of a founding member, and as some existing Trustees are stepping back. Applicants must be registered patients of the practice and able to attend four meetings per year at the Health Centre. Meetings are typically held at lunchtime, and refreshments are provided.

If you are interested or would like further information, please contact the Practice Manager at andrew.wilkinson7@nhs.net or Colin Brookbanks at colinbrookbanks@gmail.com.