Keep up to date with current news and resources in our monthly newsletter.
Please get in touch for any support accessing any materials mentioned in this months update: academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk
Category: NHS
Patient Health Records: Access, Confidentiality, and the Journey Toward a Single Record
A July 28 2025 briefing explains current UK laws governing patient access to their own health records and confidentiality protections. It reveals that NHS data remains fragmented—GPs and hospitals each hold separate records, complicating care and research. The government plans to introduce a “single patient record” via the NHS App. While many support better data sharing, concerns linger over third-party access. Electronic record systems are in place in most NHS trusts, but progress continues toward full implementation by 2026. Key legislation now includes the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 and updated standards to encourage secure and efficient data sharing.
Read more: Patient health records: Access, sharing and confidentiality – House of Commons Library
NHS Launches Official WhatsApp Channel
NHS England has launched a new WhatsApp Channel to share trusted health information directly with the public. The channel will feature short, visual messages covering public health campaigns such as flu and COVID-19, seasonal advice, NHS updates, and myth-busting content.
The channel also encourages users to share posts with family and friends through the app. To join, simply search for ‘NHS’ under the Updates tab in WhatsApp.
Record number of dementia diagnoses on NHS
A recent NHS milestone shows 506,549 people in the UK have received a dementia diagnosis, up from 490,163 a year ago—reflecting improved awareness and access to testing under the NHS 10 Year Health Plan.
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust has also launched MinderCare, an at-home monitoring service using discreet sensors on beds, appliances, and doorways. It helps clinical teams monitor routines, medication responses, and early signs of decline—supporting safer, more responsive care at home.
In the past year, the NHS delivered 330,460 care plans or reviews and 114,447 medication reviews, reinforcing a stronger support system for those with dementia.
Read more here: Record number of dementia diagnoses on NHS | UK Healthcare News
Library Bank Holiday Closure
Please note that the library will be closed on Monday 25th August for the bank holiday. Normal opening hours will resume on Tuesday 26th August.
If you need resources during the closure, you can still access our online library services, including e-books, journals, and databases.
We hope you enjoy the long weekend!
ICD-11 Personality Disorders: A Clinician’s Guide
We’re pleased to announce that ICD-11 Personality Disorders: A Clinician’s Guide is now available in our library collection. This essential resource offers clear guidance on the ICD-11 classification of personality disorders, practical tools for assessment, and evidence-based approaches to treatment. Perfect for clinicians, mental health professionals, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of this updated diagnostic framework.
Please note: This book is available for LSCFT staff only. Visit the library to borrow your copy or reserve it online.
Our Library Stats July 2025
We’ve had the pleasure of supporting all LSCFT staff this past month and are thrilled to see so many of you engaging with our resources. If you’re not yet a member, we’d love to have you join our community. Simply reach out to us at academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.
Library Newsletter August 2025
Our Library Stats April 2025
We’ve had the pleasure of supporting all LSCFT staff this past month and are thrilled to see so many of you engaging with our resources. If you’re not yet a member, we’d love to have you join our community. Simply reach out to us at academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.
