393. NHS Primary Care Bulletin - 11 June 2026

Introduction

This article summarises the NHS England Primary Care Bulletin for 11 June 2026, the weekly email update for teams in general practice, dentistry, community pharmacy, and optometry.

This week's updates include new guidance on referring and prescribing for children and young people's gender care, the publication of GIRFT best practices for glaucoma services, and amendments to the flu immunisation programme for 2026/27.

Referring and prescribing guidance for children and young people's gender care

New guidance has been published detailing the current referral and prescribing arrangements for gender care for children and young people (CYP). It clarifies the role of primary care within the specialist pathway. Read it on the NHS CYP Gender Referral Support Service website.

Tech Innovation Framework solutions in practice

Practices considering upgrading their electronic patient record (EPR) systems can explore new EPR systems and migration support via the Tech Innovation Framework guidance. Learn how Park Road Surgery in Teddington upgraded their system and the benefits it has brought to their busy practice.

GIRFT best practice for glaucoma services: guidance published

The new GIRFT Best Practice for Glaucoma Services guidance has been released. It provides a clinical framework for delivering effective, patient-centred care, emphasising timely detection, accurate referrals, effective diagnostics, and lifelong continuity of care to reduce avoidable sight loss. This guidance supports multidisciplinary collaboration for teams involved in glaucoma services, ensuring patients receive the appropriate care in a timely manner.

2026/27 flu immunisation programme amendments

The national flu immunisation programme 2026 to 2027 letter has been updated. Community pharmacies can now vaccinate eligible children to enhance access and uptake. Starting 1 October 2026, this includes two and three-year-olds and children aged 2 to under 18 in clinical risk groups. Additionally, from 1 December 2026, pharmacies may vaccinate school-aged children who missed vaccination through SAIS providers. Following JCVI advice, the programme will also include individuals experiencing homelessness aged 16 and over starting 1 October 2026. Further details and guidance will be provided soon.

NHS Excellence Awards 2026 winners announced

The winners of the inaugural NHS Excellence Awards were announced at the NHS ConfedExpo on 10 June. These awards, delivered by NHS England, celebrate the individuals and teams driving improvement, innovation, and collaboration across health and care in England. Among the winners was Dr Jess Harvey from South East Shropshire Primary Care Network, recognised for her leadership.

Senior leaders in primary care: fully funded Nye Bevan places available

The Nye Bevan leadership development programme offers a unique opportunity for registered clinical healthcare professionals in primary care currently in or aspiring to senior leadership roles. This includes GPs, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and AHPs. The programme, delivered with KPMG and PwC, supports career progression and leads to the NHS Leadership Academy Award in Executive Healthcare Leadership. The next intake starts in September 2026, and applications must be submitted by Monday 6 July 2026. More information can be found on the webpage and applicants can attend drop-in sessions for further guidance.

Diabetes Week – promoting the 4Ts

Type 1 diabetes can present at any age, but it most commonly appears in children and young people. Nearly 40% of these individuals are diagnosed in life-threatening diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). During Diabetes Week, it is crucial to promote awareness of the four key symptoms of type 1 diabetes: Toilet (frequent urination), Thirsty (constant thirst), Tired (low energy), and Thinner (unexplained weight loss). If type 1 diabetes is suspected, check finger prick glucose immediately, refer for same-day specialist review, and follow NICE guidance. Access 5-minute training on DKA prevention and visit their website for more resources.

The National Conversation: NHS staff are encouraged to contribute

The National Conversation is a UK-wide initiative aimed at gathering insights on community life. NHS staff, particularly those in primary care, are encouraged to engage by:

• Taking the survey (open until the end of August 2026)

• Hosting a conversation with their healthcare team or community

• Visiting the resources page for additional information.

• 1 July, 10.30-12pm AI Ambassador Network meeting - Asking Patients What Could Go Wrong? and more

• 17 June, 1–3pm Preventing and responding to measles outbreaks in the community webinar

Missed a recent national webinar? View slides and recordings below:

• General Practice webinars

Content in this article is drawn from the NHS England Primary Care Bulletin. Patient.info edits and formats the updates to provide a clear, accessible archive for professionals.

For the original email, click here.