Healthwatch Round Up - 5 September 2024
Welcome to this week's Healthwatch Stockport Information Round-up (IRU).
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Work For Healthwatch Stockport - Apply by 15 September!
We're recruiting for two amazing job positions and a chance to join the Healthwatch Stockport team!
Communications & Volunteer Coordinator: In this role, you'll be responsible for leading our communications strategy, coordinating members and volunteers, and engaging our local communities. Your work will drive positive changes in Stockport's health and social care services.
Engagement Officer - Mental Health: You will be working within the passionate team at Healthwatch Stockport to effectively engage with local people, communities who have a lived or living experience of serious mental illness and of using mental health services in Stockport.
How to Apply:
Both positions close 15 September 2024.
Could either role be the role for you?
Have Your Say: Hospital Appointments & GP Accessibility!
We're focusing on two important areas of local healthcare services as part of our upcoming Enter and View Programme. We'd like to gather as much feedback as possible so please get in touch and share our request with family and friends.
Hospital Appointment Systems: Our first focus will be the systems used by hospitals to book your appointments. We want to hear your experiences with the hospital booking systems and how information about your appointments is provided to you.
GP Practices Accessibility: The second focus will be on GP practices. We'll be visiting various GP practices to observe the signage and information available to patients. Our goal is to ensure that these practices are catering to the needs of people requiring additional support, including those with learning disabilities, sensory loss, neurodiverse conditions, dementia, and other disabilities.
You can share your feed back in the following ways:
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
To learn more about our Enter and View Programme and how you can get involved, visit our website. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve healthcare services for everyone in Stockport.
Reminder to Have Your Say: Eye care and Eye health
Details from Healthwatch England
Healthwatch across England are keen to hear about people's eye care experiences. Eye care is an area where we’re hearing that people are facing long waits and high costs for care. That’s why it’s important we understand the eye care challenges people are facing and how to make sure people get timely and affordable access to eye care when they need it.
We want to hear from everyone, but we especially want to reach:
- People from ethnic minority communities, including Black African, Black Caribbean and South Asian communities.
- People who may not have a large household income because of the barriers they may face.
- People waiting for secondary care to understand their experience.
Healthwatch Articles You May Have Missed
Please see the latest news from us and Healthwatch England.
Healthwatch policy position on mental health
The experiences we (Healthwatch England) are hearing from feedback across England show that people are waiting a long time for care. The recommendations to the government set out how mental health services can be improved and provide better care for patients.
Share Your Views: Making Our NHS fit for the Future!
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
The NHS in Greater Manchester is keen to hear from people living and working in Greater Manchester about what they feel is working well and what could change to improve both their experience of getting care and their health. They're inviting people to share their views in a public engagement exercise, ‘An NHS Fit for the Future’, from now until the Autumn.
- Face-to-face event, Manchester, Thursday 12 September, 1:30-4pm. Register online to attend.
- Online event on Teams, Wednesday 25 September, 6pm - 7:30pm. Register online to attend.
This programme will give everyone the opportunity to understand issues faced by the NHS locally including its financial position; tackling waiting times; care and support for long-term conditions and improving the prevention of ill health; as well as giving their views on what matters most and how they think the NHS should shape services for the future.
Need Help Paying For Your NHS Costs?
Details from Healthwatch England
If you have a low income, the NHS Low Income Scheme could help you pay for:
- NHS prescription charges
- NHS dental treatment charges
- the cost of sight tests, glasses and contact lenses
- the cost of travelling to receive NHS treatment
- NHS wigs and fabric supports (check with your hospital for their arrangements for supplying NHS wigs)
You don’t need to be on benefits to apply.
#KnowYourNumbers
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
What numbers do you like to know? Your bank balance, the number of days to your next holiday, your 5k time, the dates of birthdays and anniversaries?
This #KnowYourNumbersWeek we're encouraging you to add your blood pressure numbers and other health stats to the list.
High blood pressure is a leading cause of disability, accounting for 50% of all strokes and heart disease. It's known as the ‘silent killer’ because it usually has no symptoms until it’s too late.
Knowing your blood pressure means you can be on the front foot, allowing you to start making healthy lifestyle changes and taking medicines if needed to reduce it to a healthy level.
Better Sleep This September
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
We all know how important it is to get a good night’s sleep but making sure we do that is another matter. During September, NHS greater Manchester are sharing our tips for better sleep to help rest and repair your mind and body.
The NHS says that healthy adults usually need around 7 to 9 hours of sleep. However, this can vary from person to person. Get involved with their #MakeMondayMatter movement by following their socials. Facebook, X and Instagram.
Cervical Screening Campaigns
Details from NHS Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers but screening can help stop it before it starts. Despite screening being such an important test, many people still don't attend their appointments. In England, all women and people with a cervix aged 25-64 are eligible for screening. If you missed your last one, book an appointment with your GP practice.
‘Don’t ignore your invite’: The NHS is running a campaign that urges people with a cervix to come forward for cervical screening test (smear test). #dontignoretheburn #GMCervicalScreening
'Remove the Doubt': The campaign is being un by OUTpatients - UK’s only LGBTIQ+ cancer charity and proudly led by and for LGBTIQ+ people affected by cancer. #RemoveTheDoubt #GMCervicalScreening
Follow the hashtags above on social media and check out their websites for further advice.
Mental Health Crisis Support Via NHS 111
Details from NHS England
In case you missed it, we're reminding everyone that, anyone, children included, in a mental health crisis can now call 111 and receive support from trained mental health professionals. NHS staff will guide callers with next steps such as face-to-face community support or access to alternatives services, such as crisis cafés which provide a place an alternative to A&E or a hospital admission.
For people who need support at A&E, if there's a risk to life, every emergency department in England now also has a liaison psychiatric team available to offer specialist care.
NHS Talking Therapy Services are available for people with other conditions (anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, PTSD). Anyone can refer themselves online via NHS.uk or by contacting their GP. You can visit NHS Stockport Talking Therapies for local information.
Childhood Vaccinations
Details from UKHSA and Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership
Childhood infections like measles and whooping cough are still rising and can have a huge impact on your child’s life. It's important for parents to take up the NHS’ free childhood immunisation programme as soon as offered. If you or your child have missed a vaccine, it's not too late to check if you can catch up. Check your child’s Red Book for MMR and Whooping Cough vaccines or check with your GP.
See the Greater Manchester Integrated Care's article about Whooping Cough here
More information on free NHS childhood vaccinations are on the NHS website.
Get Involved: Eating Disorders Research Study
The National Institute of Health of Care Research (NIHR) has shared a Genetics Initiative UK (EDGI UK) and are looking for people to take part. This is a a study to better understand the genetic and environmental links to eating disorders and help develop better treatments.
What is involved: This study involves a questionnaire and a saliva sample. Once this questionnaire is completed the participant will receive a saliva sample kit in the post which they can complete at home and send back.
Eligibility: To take part in the Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative, part of the NIHR BioResource, you must:
- Have experienced, or have been diagnosed with an eating disorder
- Be aged 16 and above
- Live in England
Recognition For Stockport's Mastercall!
Congratulations to Mastercall Healthcare, who've been announced as a finalist in the UK Social Enterprise Awards, recognising them as one of the country’s most innovative and impactful businesses.
Social enterprises are mission-led businesses that reinvest or donate at least half their profits for a social or environmental purpose. Mastercall is an award-winning Social Enterprise organisation, providing a range of ‘Out of Hospital’ healthcare services across the North-West of England and Nationwide.
See the attached press release
Adult Arts & Mental Health Programmes: New Referral Form
The ARC centre, Stockport has launched their new online referral form to make the process smoother and meet the growing demand for their programmes. Referrals can be made to:
- Arts for wellbeing (Stockport or Oldham)
An accessible structured programme using creativity to help participants to relax, build confidence, improve their mental health and connect with others. The small group sessions provide a safe, warm, supportive environment where participants can flourish through guided therapeutic art-making.
- Age Well (Stockport)
Artist-led programmes designed to build social connections and increase wellbeing for isolated older people (65+). The small group sessions and accessible activities support participants to engage in fun, relaxing artmaking and feel part of the community.
To help ensure everyone can access and get involved with their programmes, ARC will still accept paper referrals when needed.
Stockport NHS Foundation Trust Annual Members Meeting
Details from the Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
Book now to take part in the Stockport NHS Foundation Trust Annual Members’ Meeting on 25 September.
At the meeting they'll share a review of the year 2023/24 and showcase many of their service improvements. The Trust’s Annual Accounts 2023/24 and plans for the future will also be presented, alongside the outcome of governor elections and a live Q&A session.
Find the agenda here.
Pinewood House Education Centre, Stepping Hill Hospital.
Wednesday 25 September, 4pm – 5.30pm
Doors will open at 3.15pm for registration and refreshments, along with the opportunity to meet with your governors and share feedback.
To book your place, email membership@stockport.nhs.uk
Please submit questions for the Q&A in advance to membership@stockport.nhs.uk
Get Involved: Month of Hope
Details from Greater Manchester Integrated Care
The Month of Hope 2024 is part of the Shining a Light on Suicide campaign and is about raising awareness of suicide by encouraging everyone in Greater Manchester to have open conversations. This year’s theme is ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide’ and we will be raising awareness of the actions we can all take to reduce suicide and instill hope.
To mark the Month of Hope, a number of events are happening across Stockport.
World Suicide Prevention Day: The NHS Greater Manchester Suicide Prevention Programme invite you to join them for their virtual event on 10 September. They have invited guest speakers to inspire and motivate us all to do what we can to prevent suicide.
Tuesday 10 September, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Online (details will be confirmed)
Walk of Hope Stockport: The Mental Health Network are organising a Walk of Hope on the 20 September.
Those joining are asked to meet at Vernon Park Café at 10am. The walk starts at 10.15am and will last roughly 45 minutes to an hour. There will be a chance to chat and enjoy a drink at the café afterwards.
This walk is accessible so everyone is invited to join.
Vernon Park, Turncroft Lane, Stockport SK1 4AR
Get Involved: For Men to Talk
Details from For Men to Talk
'For Men To Talk - Stockport will be the The Wheatsheaf, Higher Hillgate. This is a supportive space for men to come together, share experiences, and talk openly in a non-judgmental environment, whether you're looking for support or simply want to be heard.
Tuesday 10 September, 7pm.
Get Involved: Stockport Volunteer Fair
Details from Sector 3
Stockport's Volunteer Fair is taking place on 18 September at Merseyway Shopping Centre. Over 20 local community organisations will be on hand to share their latest volunteering roles.
Stockport Volunteer Hub Lead, Clare Finch says
"Stockport has a thriving voluntary sector, offering a wide range of roles and causes to support, from maintenance, gardening, and handywork to befriending, skill-sharing, and more. Volunteering provides a valuable opportunity to acquire new skills, connect with others, and engage with your local community. We encourage people to pop down throughout the day to see what volunteering can offer them and vice versa."
Wednesday 18 September, 9am - 4pm
Merseyway Shopping Centre (outside Specsavers)
For details about volunteering in Stockport visit www.stockportvolunteerhub.org.uk/ or follow Stockport Volunteer Hub on Instagram @stockportvolhub
Get Involved: Yoga For Autistic Women
Upward Frog Stockport are running 'Yoga for Autistic Young Women'. This weekly class is suitable for young women aged 16+ and will support physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It will help improve motor skills, coordination, and body awareness while providing effective tools for managing anxiety and stress and improving sleep patterns through calming breathing techniques and mindfulness.
This course is free to attend due to funding from the Forever Manchester / CDL Fund.
Upward Frog CIC, Ground Floor, Graylaw House, 39 Chestergate, SK1 1LZ
Classes take place from 25 September, 4:30 pm (Wednesday) and every Wednesday after.
Get Involved: Arc in the Park
Details from ARC Stockport
ARC is running a series of opportunities to get outdoors and get creative! Arc in the Park includes a new programme of 'Photography for Wellbeing Walks' around Viaduct Park. This will led by local artist and photographer, Rae Story.
Photography is a great way to take notice, connect and feel better. Whether you’re a budding photographer or have never made a photo before. Each month Rae will guide you through the park focusing on prompts as you walk, talk and capture your natural surroundings in the heart of Stockport. She'll be on hand to help and discuss technique and your ideas.
This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Get Involved: Stockport Arts & Health Week
For Stockport's Arts and Health Week (10 - 18 October), Arc at the Hat Works are running two showcases to celebrating Stockport’s creativity and collaborative energy through workshops, networking and more.
The showcases will share what groups and services are around Stockport to use creativity to improve you mental health. There will be an adults session (14 October( and a youth session (16 October).
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Courses & Workshops: Walthew House
Details from Walthew House
Walthew House have some wonderful courses starting this month:
Making the Most of What You Can See: FREE Making the Most of What You Can See course on Monday 16 September, 1.00pm.
British Sign Language (BSL) introductory - 8 week course. £50 (£45 Friends Of Walthew House members)
Lip Reading - 8 week course. £50 (£45 FOWH members)
Full payment is required at time of booking to confirm your place on the course.
If you'd like to book a place on the course or have any questions:
0161 480 2612
Training: Suicide Awareness for Professionals
Details from Greater Manchester Women’s Support Alliance
Stockport Council have announced a new date for their Suicide Awareness for Professionals training, which is free of charge for anyone working or volunteering in Stockport.
Course Details:
- Develops understanding and compassion.
- Tackles myths, stigma, and barriers
- Introduces concept that suicide is not inevitable – people can be helped, and module includes the latest research and evidence.
- Helps delegates understand how distress develops and how people can be best supported.
- Develops common language between community, services, and those in distress.
- Gives delegates the confidence and the skills practice of talking to someone in distress.
- Develops a compassionate approach for demanding and time-pressured environments.
- Equips with the knowledge of how to use www.StayingSafe.net to make their own Safety Plan
To book a place, press CTRL & click on the following link:
SUICIDE AWARENESS FOR PROFESSIONALS BOOKING FORM
Tuesday 24 Sept 1:30pm - 4pm - 6.30pm
Zoom (details will be confirmed when you book)
Important: Please only book a place if you can be sure to attend as this is a popular course.
Further Training Courses Coming Up
There are a variety of training course available from Skills For Life (SFL) and others. Please see the attachments below:
Stockport Council Review
Prince's Trust
Upcoming courses from The Prince's Trust (princes-trust-digital.co.uk)
Stockport Women & Girls
Information and Signposting
For up to date health and social care information, signposting and guidance call Healthwatch Stockport on
0161 974 0753 10am - 2pm or email info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
Visit our Information and Signposting directory
Do you have a health or social care experience you want to share – how did your last appointment with your GP or dentist go? Are you happy or frustrated with the service you received – let us know so we can work with local services to influence better commissioners and better outcomes for you and your family.
