Healthwatch Round Up - 10 October 2024
Welcome to this week's Healthwatch Stockport Information Round-up (IRU).
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Last Week to Donate to the Big Food Collection!
Last call to donate to our food donation station to support the ‘Big Food Collection’ for Stockport Foodbank. Whatever you can afford to donate will help to provide emergency food parcels to residents over Winter. See the list here.
Donations can be dropped off at Healthwatch Stockport and Stockport Advocacy on Wednesday 16 October, 8.30am to 3.30pm (Please don't leave outside) or before if you're attending a meeting/booked a room onsite. Come to the ‘Land O Cakes’, 48 Middle Hillgate, SK1 3DL and press the buzzer.
The Big Food Collection | Stockport Foodbank
Have Your Say: Your Experience of Local Eye Care Services
Tell us what you think of local eye care services. Are you happy with the eye care you’re receiving – what's working well and what do you think could be improved?
As one of our new work programmes for 2024/2025 and following community feedback, we're focusing our attentions to the ‘variation in eye and hearing services and its impact on wellbeing, health and lifestyle’. All feedback will help us to make recommendations for improvements to commissioners and eye care providers and services for everyone in Stockport. There will be additional ways to get involved in this area of work, we'll share more details soon.
Feedback centre (on our website)
0161 974 0753 or text 078710 89100 (text service only)
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
Have your say in helping to ensure you receive the quality of eye care you need, when you need it.
Healthwatch Articles & Reports You May Have Missed
Please see the latest news from us and Healthwatch England.
What help can you get to pay for your prescriptions?
The cost of living crisis has put many people under financial strain, and prescription costs are more than some can afford. Find out what help is out there to help you cover the cost of your medication.
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. As part of the public engagement, NHS GM is holding a number of public listening events, ‘An NHS Fit for the Future’, including one in Stockport on 19 November.
NHS Greater Manchester (NHS GM) in partnership with us at Healthwatch Stockport, is inviting you to share your views at this public listening event.
We want to take you on our journey helping us to achieve our population health, performance and financial goals; giving stakeholders and communities the opportunity to say what is important to you. We also want to hear what you think NHS GM should prioritise in Stockport and across Greater Manchester, whilst increasing awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by the organisation.
At this event you’ll receive an overview of our three challenges:
Healthy Happy Lives
We need to spend more time focusing on supporting people to live happy, healthy lives by preventing illnesses and where possible identifying these early.
Great Services
We need to make services high quality, easy to access with shorter waiting times and fair across Greater Manchester.
Financial Balance
We need to make the most of our money to bring the local NHS finances into balance.
We want you to hear what is important to you, what you think we should prioritise and suggest ways we can improve our services.
To attend our listening event, visit our Eventbrite page and see the attached poster.
Reminder: Help Shape Pennine Care's Five-year Strategy 2025-2030
Details from Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust
The Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust's current five-year strategy ends in March 2025 and, while they still have the same core principles, they want to review some aspects including their big ambitions.
They want to strengthen and simplify the ambitions, as well as develop their strategic plans to deliver them. To do this, they want all patients and carers, communities, staff, partner organisations and others – to feed in views so that their refreshed strategy reflects your thoughts and ideas.
For service users, carers and communities, they're running events, with the following date in Stockport:
Tuesday 29 October, 2pm -3.30pm
Stockport Masonic Guildhall, 169-171 Wellington Road South, SK1 3UA. Parking on site.
They'll announce details of online sessions for those unable to attend.
This includes links to their current strategy and a survey if you'd prefer to share your views that way.
Have Your Say: Children & Young People's ADHD Services
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
NHS Greater Manchester has launched a public engagement exercise to gather views on children and young people’s attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) services in Greater Manchester.
The engagement exercise, which runs until 29 November, aims to address some issues including long wait times, levels of ongoing support for patients, the referral and assessment process, and how services vary across Greater Manchester. Their biggest priority is to improve how cases are prioritised, and making sure that children and young people most in need, get help quickly.
How you can help
Firstly, they'd like to find out what matters most to people who use these services, their carers and/or families; and to help shape future services. They're also keen to hear from colleagues working in services that support children with ADHD.
You can give your views; via an online survey, by email or attending a focus group. To find out more and get involved, visit their website.
NHS Greater Manchester 2023/24 Annual Report
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
The 2023/24 NHS Greater Manchester Annual Report has been published and is available on their website.
Have You or Someone You Know Missed Your Breast Screening?
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
NHS Greater Manchester have revealed that one in two of people invited to breast screening chose not to come forward for their first appointment. Breast screening can find breast cancer before any signs or symptoms. Anyone registered with a GP as female will be invited for NHS breast screening every three years between the ages of 50 and 71.
If you or someone you know has missed their screening, or if you've been ignoring that letter, please contact your local service to book your appointment.
Find out more about Breast Screening
Free Eye, Hearing & Dental Checks For Children With Special Needs & Disabilities
Details from NHS England
From next year, children and young people with special education needs and disabilities in residential special schools and colleges will be offered free NHS eyesight, hearing and dental checks.
The NHS sensory checks have been piloted in schools during 2022 and 2023, and will be offered across England – reaching around 18,000 children and young people. They will help ensure issues are identified promptly, and that children and young people can get the right care.
‘Get Winter Strong’ Vaccination Campaign
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
The NHS Greater Manchester have launched their latest campaign to urge people to protect themselves against viruses like Flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Viruses common in Winter can make some people very unwell and result in serious problems that may need hospital care.
The campaign is, ‘Get Winter Strong’, which links into ideas of staying strong, healthy, well and being ready for Winter. This is teamed with a clear call to action: ‘Get Vaccinated.’ The NHS offers free vaccines to those at greatest risk, so they can get the protection they need.
NHS Urges Parents to Protect Children With Flu Vaccine
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Invitations are being sent to parents of 2–3 year olds to book their children in for a flu vaccine ahead of Winter. The flu vaccine for children aged 2-3 years is a quick and painless spray up the nose, without the need for an injection (unless the child cannot have porcine gelatine in medical products, in which case an injected flu vaccine is available as an alternative).
Stockport Council have also shared a reminder of Flu Vaccination Programme
Have Your Say: Domestic Abuse Research
Details from Sector 3
Stockport Council is working with Linxs Consultancy to carry out an assessment in relation to domestic abuse services in Stockport, examining any gaps or barriers to support and to consider potential areas for improved service provision. To do this, they're running two surveys, all responses will be confidential:
- first for those who've experienced domestic abuse, either as a victim/survivor or a family member
- The second is for representatives of community groups and local organisations.
If you are in a position to complete both surveys, please revisit the online form at any time.
Reminder: Urgent Blood Donor Appeal
Details from NHS
Every minute, the NHS needs 3 lifesaving blood donations. That’s a lot of blood! Whatever your blood type, YOU can make a difference for many. You could be helping a daughter fight sickle cell, a neighbour combat cancer or providing life-saving medicines to a newborn.
The NHS needs your help urgently to keep providing lifesaving blood. They're calling for people who are O negative to give blood. O negative can be given to anyone hence the urgent call.
O negative: Please book and keep your appointment to donate as soon as possible.
All other blood types: Please book and keep your appointment, even if it's a few weeks away - your donation will be just as valuable then.
Log in to book an appointment and find the best availability.
Funding: Mental Wellbeing Grants
Details from GMCVO
Small grants of between £1,000 and £5,000 are available to support the mental wellbeing of communities across Greater Manchester. This Greater Manchester Mental Wellbeing grant programme is funded by the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership.
Grants are available for small voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations (income less than £75k) to develop their activity which supports the mental wellbeing of people from communities of identity or experience, including:
- Carers
- People from communities who have experienced racial inequality
- People living with long term physical or mental health conditions
- People who identify as LGBTQ+
- People experiencing socioeconomic crisis
- Disabled people
- Military veterans
- People who are unemployed
- Socially isolated older people
A total of £75,000 is available for between 15 and 20 projects. Organisations can only apply once for one project of between £1,000 and £5,000. Project delivery should take place between November 2024 - May 2025, with all monitoring submitted by mid-June 2024.
In previous years, funding has supported all of the above communities however men have been underrepresented within the activities and support provided. They are keen for organisations and community groups who support and work with men to apply for this funding.
Deadline to apply: 12 Noon, Tuesday 5 November.
Safe and Found Online to be Rolled Out Across GM
Details from Dementia United
Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and Greater Manchester Police are asking for support to promote the ‘Safe and Found Online’ initiative.
This is a national scheme introduced by the police in partnership with other agencies used to help locate at-risk people. It encourages carers to compile useful information which could be used to help locate the vulnerable person (typically with dementia) if they go missing.
This digital version allows the person living with dementia or their carer, to update a secure profile online, as opposed to a paper form or computer file. It includes the function to upload new or recent photos - potentially lifesaving information is automatically accessible to the Police.
The initiative is primarily aimed at people with a new/recent dementia diagnosis and those already living with the condition. After a successful trial, safeandfoundonline.co.uk is being rolled out across Greater Manchester.
Remembrance Service With Beechwood Cancer Care
Details from Beechwood Cancer Care
The festive season can be a time of joy, but it can also bring challenges for those facing ill health, caring for someone, or grieving the loss of a loved one. With this in mind, Beechwood Cancer Care are holding a special remembrance carol service this December.
Thursday 12 December, 7pm
St. Mary’s in the Marketplace, Stockport
Join Beechwood for carols, readings, and a moment to honour the memory of those dear to us. You’ll also have the chance to light a candle in their name, include their name in their 'Scroll of Remembrance', which will be read during the service. Refreshments and mince pies will follow the service.
To commemorate your loved ones, they ask for a minimum donation of £5 per name, which will help support their ongoing services for those affected by cancer, grief, and bereavement.
Email fundraising@beechwoodcancercare.co.uk for more information or to make your entry.
In Case You Missed it: Awareness Days and Events
Black History Month - October. Stockport’s Race & Equality Partnership (S-REP) has issued their Black History Month (BHM) events programme for Stockport. This year’s theme focuses on “African Americans and the Arts”. You can also download the BHM in Stockport brochure for more details.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month - October. Everyone - please use this month as a reminder to always check your chests. For advice and cancer support visit: NHS, our website for a growing list of local support and charities Breast Cancer Now and CoppaFeel
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Domestic Violence Awareness - October. A month-long campaign to raise awareness and end stigma about domestic violence, and most importantly speak up and offer resources to anyone you think may be in an abusive relationship. See our growing list of local services, Stockport Without Abuse is the largest domestic abuse organisation in Stockport - who offer a range of services to help and support women, men and children affected by domestic abuse.
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World Mental Health Day - 10 October. Whether you're reading this on or after 10 October, we'll continue to raise awareness of mental health services and support (follow our socials for updates). For support see the NHS website, our growing list of local services as well as this useful leaflet of helpline numbers. Anyone concerned about suicide can find advice and support on the Shining a Light on Suicide website.
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Digitober - October. During Digitober, there'll be activities to help you learn how to use the internet or improve your digital skills. See the DigiKnow Network. We also support Get Online Week (14 – 20 October), a national initiative that helps people get online and build confidence in using technology.
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Modern day slavery week of action: From 14 October, across Greater Manchester there will be a programme of events in the lead up to Anti-Slavery Day on 18 October. Anti-Slavery Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of the 49.6 million people in the world today, and an estimated 136,000 people in the UK, trapped in conditions of modern slavery. It was created by the Anti-Slavery Day Act.
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Start Well Week of Action - 14 - 18 October. A week of activities and online sessions for parents, carers and professionals with a focus on supporting the social and emotional development and wellbeing of babies and young children. It's a chance for parents and carers to try a free tots session at Life Leisure, join a health professional online on how newborns sleep, join a wellbeing walk for dads; story-time sessions and more. Follow Start Well on Facebook for the latest updates.
Stockport Arts and Health Week - 14 & 16 October
Details from ARC
Would you like to improve your wellbeing through creativity? As part of Stockport Arts and Health Week, Arc is hosting a free showcase event, for people to come along and find out more about local community groups and organisations who offer opportunities to improve wellbeing through creativity.
Arc at Hat Works, Stockport
Monday 14 October from 11am - 2.30pm
Stockport Youth Arts and Mental Health Services
Arc is also hosting a free showcase event, for people to find out more about local creative groups offering youth focused opportunities as well as support services for young people (11+) and / or their adults. Drop in with or without your young person, meet local groups and find out about the services they run.
Get Involved: Wellbeing Workshops
Details from the Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Stockport Talking Therapies are running workshops over the coming weeks as follows:
Improving your Wellbeing Workshops
Monday 14 October 1-3pm
At the Hub, 2 Castle Street, Edgeley, SK3 9AB
This Workshop is a FREE Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) course for adults experiencing symptoms of low mood or anxiety. The Workshop helps you learn new skills to enable you to tackle challenges associated with experiencing these symptoms, as well as techniques and ways of managing anxiety and low mood.
Some of the topics/ techniques you will learn on the course include:
- Understanding the vicious cycle of low mood & anxiety
- How small changes to our lifestyle can have a big impact on our wellbeing.
- Relaxation & Mindfulness.
- How to improve your activity levels and in turn improve motivation.
- How to improve your sleep.
If you would like to book a place, please call 0161 480 1211 or email info@ageukstockport.org.uk
Worry Management Workshops
Mondays 11 & 18 November
At the Hub, 2 Castle Street, Edgeley, SK3 9AB
The Workshop helps you learn new skills to enable you to tackle the many challenges associated with experiencing these symptoms, you will be taught techniques to manage these symptoms.
Some of the topics/ techniques you will learn on the course include:
- Understanding Stress and Anxiety
- Noticing & challenging unhelpful thoughts.
- Worry Management
- Problem Solving
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Virtual Careers Fair With Stockport Council
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council has joined forces with Stockport Jobs Match to host a week-long virtual careers fair to showcase the borough’s employment and education options from 16 year old plus.
The Post-16 Careers Week, taking place between 14 and 18 October. It will provide invaluable careers guidance to students in Years 10 to 13 as they consider their options after leaving secondary school and college and help them make informed choices about what and where to study.
Become a Digital Champion!
Starting Point are looking For Digital Champion support throughout Stockport. If you're interested in any of the below roles, email clara@startpoint.org.uk
Stockport Continuing Education (SCE) Drop in Service
Mondays and Tuesdays 12.30 – 1.30pm. Term time only. Start date is 5 November. “Taster” sessions available before November.
Daw Bank, SK3 0EQ
Stockport Continuing Education service support people to learn new skills and gain skills for work. Some of their learners may be doing work related skills, brushing up their Maths or Literacy, or learning English. Students need support to submit coursework online, access tasks set by their tutors, find out information online, feel more confident using a computer or use fun apps to learn. That’s where you come in!
Requirements:
- 6 Digital champions, so you’ll be part of a group.
- Training will be provided. If you volunteer regularly, SCE will fund a Google Level 1 qualification in Digital skills.
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Stockport Homes - Brinnington Job club
Fridays 11am - 1pm
First house, 367 Brinnington Rd, SK5 8EN – October start
You'll work with Starting Point and Stockport homes staff to support job seekers to find work online and learn digital skills. You'll help people make a real change and feel more confident to look for a job they enjoy.
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Signpost for Carers Support
First Monday of month, 11am -1pm. Start date is 4 November.
Annie’s café, The Heatons Centre, Thornfield Rd, Heaton Moor, SK4 3LD
Signpost support unpaid carers (relatives or friends) who care for someone who's disabled or unwell. Annie’s café offers refreshments and a chance to chat to other carers. Many are older people who care for someone they love.
Requirements:
- 2 Digital champions to meet and chat to people at the centre and offer digital help if people need it.
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Chelwood Food Bank at Brinnington Lighthouse
Wednesdays 1.30 – 3pm
Northumberland Rd, Stockport SK5 8LS.
Volunteers help people to sign up to the Databank (free sim cards) and offer digital support if people need help to solve a problem on their phone or laptop. Foodbank customers come to the Lighthouse to collect food parcels, chat, and seek support.
Requirements:
- Looking for 2 volunteers in addition to volunteer they have
- Full training will be provided.
Job Opportunity: Arc are Recruiting!
From their base in the Hat Works in Stockport, Arc’s creative programmes provide life-changing opportunities for people experiencing mental health challenges and inclusive, welcoming spaces where they can develop a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
They're seeking a highly motivated Volunteer and Engagement Coordinator, to develop meaningful roles for volunteers across our delivery, and increase the profile and reach of Arc. If you're a ‘can do’ person with great people skills and experience of inspiring, training or developing volunteers, this is the role for you.
Click here for details and job description
Closing date for applications – Sunday 27 October
CV Writing and Job Search Event: Friday 11 October
Details from Smart Works Greater Manchester
Are you looking for a new job and don’t know where to start? Need help to create a CV? Or perhaps, you need someone to run through your CV with you?
If so Smartworks Greater Manchester are holding their first ever job search and CV writing support event at the Age UK Stockport hub. The event is planned to also support you with your interview skills to build your confidence.
Friday 11 October 10am –2pm
AGE UK Stockport Hub, Edgeley, SK3 9AB
Training Courses Coming Up
There are a variety of training courses including those from from Skills For Life (SFL) and others. Please see the attachments below:
For Men to Talk
‘For Men To Talk’ October 2024 Meetings
GMCVO
GMCVO eBulletin (October 2024)
NHS England
GM Integrated Care Partnership
Integrated Care Partnership Update: 4 October 2024
North West Ambulance Service
Your Call - Issue 22 by NWAmbulance - Issuu
Prince's Trust
Upcoming courses from The Prince's Trust (princes-trust-digital.co.uk)
Stockport Council
Review Extra 4.10.24 (stockport-council.co.uk)
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.
