Try using techhnology Allan.
I use either the NHS app, Patients Know Best or my Surgery's own website. I receive my appointments that way. I do not get paper in the post. And I get text reminders. I simply show the appointment "letter" on my phone if asked.
That said such is the nature of the NHS data systens that a cancellation or change can only be done by phone which is a real flaw and as you say wastes time and resource.