Healthwatch Round Up - 5 December 2024
Welcome to this week's Healthwatch Stockport Information Round-up (IRU).
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Last Chance to Book: Christmas Coffee Morning!
'What to Know This Winter' Booklet Now Available
The Healthwatch Stockport team have pulled together a super useful booklet sharing tip, tricks, advice and important information to help you and your loved ones through the Winter months.
This handy booklet is available digitally to download and share, or in a printed version. Many hard copies have also already been distributed to libraries, pharmacies, and local community venues and businesses across Stockport, with more to be delivered in various locations. So feel free to pick one up! To ask for a copy, contact the team:
0161 974 0753
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
Please share this with loved ones and your networks.
Healthwatch Articles & Advice You May Have Missed
Please see the latest news, advice and support articles from us and Healthwatch England. We've included a few from recent weeks to ensure you have valuable information and updates.
New NHS elective care target - our response
Today the prime minister Kier Starmer has pledged to meet the target to get 92% of NHS patients treated within 18 weeks of referral. Read our response.
Public’s confusion over ‘right’ to register with an NHS dentist
Almost two decades after the public lost their right to register permanently with an NHS dentist, our new research shows two-thirds believe this right exists. Find out more about our findings and calls for dental reform.
What can the Pharmacy First scheme do for me?
The new Pharmacy First scheme enables your local pharmacy to treat some common conditions with prescription-only medicines, without you visiting your GP. Find out everything you need to know.
How to look after yourself whilst caring for someone else
Each day 6,000 people become carers. Looking after a loved one can be physically and emotionally exhausting so it's vital that you get the support you need. Find out how you can make sure you look after yourself.
What is SAD, and how can you manage it?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression triggered by seasonal changes. One in twenty people in the UK are diagnosed with the condition, with men more likely to be diagnosed with SAD than women.
Check out our website for more news, advice and informative articles.
Healthwatch Stockport’s Information & Advice Service
Do you run a local community group or coffee morning? If so, we would love the opportunity to come and talk to your group about the Information & Advice service we offer.
If you would like further information or to book a session, please contact Claire:
0161 974 0753
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
Follow And Share Our Social Posts
Did you know that we’re on social media? We’re on Facebook, Instagram, Linked In and X (formally Twitter). Give us a ‘follow’, ‘like’ and ‘share’ our posts. This helps to spread the word about local health and social care and how we, Healthwatch Stockport, can help you.
Have Your Say: Help Improve ADHD Services
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Join a Lived Experience Group
Your insights can guide the way they gather feedback and improve services. Online sessions will run on these dates:
17 December 2024, 6pm -7pm
14 January 2025, 6pm -7pm
28 January 2025, 6pm -7pm
25 February 2025, 6pm -7pm
Help shape the future of ADHD services! For more details or to register, visit:
https://gmintegratedcare.org.uk/childrens-adhd-services/
Call or WhatsApp: 07786 673762
UK Government Promise to Prioritise Men's Health
Details from Mens Health Forum
The Forum is celebrating the announcement by health secretary Wes Streeting of a UK government Men's Health Strategy. This follows year of campaigning.
At the government's first Men's Health Summit, the health secretary announced the strategy would address how to prevent and tackle the biggest health problems affecting men of all ages. This could include cardiovascular disease, prostate cancer and testicular cancer, as well as mental health and suicide prevention. It will form a key part of the Government’s 10 Year Health Plan to help improve the NHS.
He said the next step would be a call for evidence on the strategy to seek views on what is working and what more needs to be done to close the life expectancy gap between men and women.
Greater Manchester Launches First Gender-Based Violence Plan for Men and Boys
Details from Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA)
On International Men’s Day 2024 (19 November), Greater Manchester became the first city-region in the UK to launch a dedicated plan for tackling gender-based violence against men and boys.
The plan sets out how Greater Manchester will tackle domestic abuse and sexual assault and harassment towards men and boys, raise awareness of support services and expand training for professionals.
This forms part of a wider 10-year strategy to tackle gender-based violence, formed in September 2021 by the GMCA. Their Strategy sets out a comprehensive programme to enhance the safety of women and girls, while working to prevent gender-based violence from happening by challenging attitudes and inequalities.
Read more about the strategy Details from
Have Your Say: Adult Social Care - Fairer Charging
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council want to hear your views on our Adult Social Care Fairer Charging proposals. Their feedback survey is open until midday on 8 January 2025. Visit their consultation pages for more information and to have your say.
If surveys aren't your thing you can join an online session or meet the team face to face:
Online session:
Wednesday 11 December – via Microsoft teams.
In person events (please use the links on the relevant date to book your attendance)
Tuesday 10 December, 12:30pm – 2:30pm
Stopford House, Piccadilly, Stockport, SK1 3XE
Friday 13 December, 1pm – 3pm
Stopford House, Piccadilly, Stockport, SK1 3XE
Wednesday 18th December, 1pm – 4pm
The Guildhall Stockport, 169 Wellington Road, Stockport, Cheshire, SK1 3UA
Pharmacy Opening Times: Festive Period
Details from Greater Manchester Integrated Care
Pharmacy opening hours for the festive bank holidays.
- Christmas Day – 25 December 2024
- Boxing Day – 26 December 2024
- New Year’s Day – 1 January 2025
Other pharmacies may be open, but have not notified NHS GM.
The the most up-to-date information is on the Greater Manchester Community Pharmacy website.
New Leaflet Available: Pregnancy and Vaccines
Details from the NHS
A new pregnancy leaflet has been published to help protect pregnant women and their newborn baby from the complications of infection. The leaflet shares information about vaccinations and the importance of having them.
The leaflet is available in a range of community languages and accessible versions. Further information about the leaflet can be found on GOV.UK. Organisations can order copies from the Health Publications website.
Re-loved Uniform Scheme
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council's Reloved: Uniform for All – will see high quality, pre-loved school uniforms made available to families across the borough. Donations of more than 500 kg of uniform has been contributed so far – that’s the same weight as an adult camel - thank you to everyone who has taken time out to help.
This scheme is part of the Council’s Climate Action Now goal to become a climate-friendly borough. This will help to reduce waste and save families money by re-using high quality items and stopping them going to landfill.
People can still drop off pre-loved uniforms at any of the places listed below:
- Any of Stockport’s 16 libraries
- Disability Stockport, 23 High Street, Stockport, SK1 1EG
- Age UK Stockport, Commonweal, 56 Wellington St, Stockport, SK1 3AQ
School Nursing Support
Details from Viaduct Care
Please see the video below along with the linked Padlet for useful school nursing support and health and wellbeing advice for Children, parents and carers.
School Nursing support for children and young people
SPARC'S Football Group is Accredited!
Details from SPARC
Congratulations to SPARC's Football Committee for enabling SPARC's Football Group to become part of England Football Accredited. England Football's tag line - 'Leading by example' means that they are flying the flag for respect and diversity.
England Football Accreditation is a national scheme that recognises and rewards non-professional football clubs and leagues for their commitment and achievements. The scheme aims to raise standards, support club and league development, and create environments where players, coaches, and volunteers can thrive.
Reminder: Stockport to ‘Get Winter Strong’
Details from Stockport Council
There is still time to get yourself booked for your vaccines, for protection against Flu, Covid and the Respiratory Syncytial Virus.
Flu vaccines: If eligible, you can get your vaccine from your GP or pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination. Pharmacy appointments: www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/book-flu-vaccination/
Protect against Covid: Adults aged 65+ with long term health conditions and those who are pregnant are encouraged to get vaccinated against COVID also. To book a COVID vaccine:
119 (ask for a translator if needed)
www.nhs.uk/bookvaccine. A BSL service is available: signvideo.co.uk/nhs119/.
To find a walk-in COVID vaccine clinic:
gmintegratedcare.org.uk/covid-vaccine-walk-in-clinics
0161 947 0770 or 0800 092 4020.
Get both your Flu and Covid vaccines: This year there is the option of booking a combined appointment to have both the Flu and the Covid vaccines at the same time.
Pop-up Covid vaccine centres next week:
11 December:
8am – 1pm - Stockport County Football Club, Edgeley, SK3 9DD (Cheadle end of car park)
12 December:
8am – 1pm - ASDA Reddish, Manchester Rd, SK4 1TN (furthest end of car park)
13 December:
2pm – 7pm -Tesco, Tivot Way, SK1 2BY
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccine: This virus causes coughs and colds and can be dangerous for older people and young babies. The vaccine is recommended for adults aged 75-79 and those who are pregnant (from 28 weeks). GPs and maternity services are providing RSV vaccines.
In Stockport, for more information on staying healthy:
Children’s Flu Vaccine Catch Up Clinics
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Children’s Flu Vaccine catch-up clinics being run by IntraHealth. Parents must call to book an appointment via 0333 358 3397. Please note that this isn't a drop-in clinic.
9 December:
3pm – 6pm - Bramhall Health Centre, 66 Bramhall Lane South, Stockport, SK7 2DY
10 December:
3pm – 5.30pm - Chadsfield Medical Practice, Romiley Health Centre, SK6 4QR
11 December:
3pm – 6pm - Gatley Medical Practice, Old Hall Rd, Gatley, Cheadle, SK8 4DG
Service Overview: Stockport Support Hub
Details from Stockport Support Hub
Did you know that as part of our Your Support service, we offer weekly sessions for the Deaf Community which are supported by a BSL interpreter?
The sessions provide practical support, information, and advice to promote independence and wellbeing This includes translation, advocacy with support services and help with digital skills.
If you or someone you know would benefit from this service, please fill in our referral form: https://lnkd.in/gMgJbmjc
Service Overview: Stockport Local
Details from Stockport Family Hubs
Stockport Local have created the online directory, which provides details of statutory services, local and national organisations and community groups in Stockport.
You can search the entire One Stockport Local directory, which includes six different subcategories:
- Support for adults
- Children and families
- Health and wellbeing
- Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
- Communities
- Financial support
You can also find the individual directories on the Support for Adults, Family Hubs, SEND Local Offer, and Communities web pages. To find out more, visit One Stockport Family Hubs
Have Your Say: Creating an Age Friendly Stockport
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council is working to become an age-friendly borough, introducing new initiatives promoting positive health and wellbeing, and supporting people to live independently.
The Stockport Age-Friendly Partnership is currently developing a new action plan. The plan aims to make Stockport a place where people can age happily with equality, respect, and independence and have a voice in the shaping the place they live.
Everyone, no matter your age, is encouraged to share their views by 15 December.
Have Your Say: Stockport SEND Survey
Details from PACT
PACT have launched a survey for parents and carers of children & young people aged 0-25 with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND). They'd like your views on how well local services identify children's and young people's needs, and how effectively they improve outcomes for families in Stockport.
Have Your Say on Stockport’s Future
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council’s budget consultation is now live, and they want to hear from you. This is an opportunity to influence how they make savings while ensuring Stockport remains a place where everyone thrives; our residents, businesses, and communities alike.
The recently published budget proposals outline plans for the upcoming financial year. Your input can help shape these decisions.
Congratulations to Stockport LGBTQ+ Network
Details from Sector 3
Congratulations to Stockport's LGBTQ+ Network in drafting an updated motion for greater inclusivity for our LGBTQ+ community in Stockport - the motion was passed!
This really highlights and reinforces their amazing work and the true force of our Networks in Stockport. If you aren't already part of a network in Stockport, please consider joining one relevant to your cause, there are over 20 in Stockport!
Funding: Moving Together Fund - StreetGames
Details from Sector 3
Organisations can apply for up to £1,000 to enable young people (who they're currently working with) to donate time to support their community to access sport, physical activity and movement. Applications close on Sunday 19 January at 5pm. Projects should take place between February and September 2025.
Domestic Support Helplines Over the Festive Period
Mayor of Stockport’s Christmas Carol Service
Details from Stockport Council
To help you get into the festive spirit, the Mayor will be hosting their Christmas Carol service this month. Stockport families and friends are all welcome to join the service.
Wednesday 18 December, 6.30pm
St Mary’s in the Marketplace, Churchgate, Stockport, SK1 1YG
Information on local car parks can be found on the council’s website.
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.
#MindfulnessMondays
Details from Stockport Race Quality Partnership
Stockport Race Equality Partnership (SREP) are holding Mindfulness Mondays - join them for a peaceful break from the hustle. Discover the power of breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness with Jude Coupe to help reduce stress and anxiety.
Every Monday, 1 PM - 1:30 PM
The space - SK1 1 HD
For more info:
07726641236
Take a step towards wellness - one mindful breath at a time.
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Training: British Sign Language
Details from Walthew House
Walthew House are running another British Sign Language (BSL) Introductory course and a BSL level 2 course, starting in January 2025.
Places are limited so to attend either of the courses, contact Walthew House:
0161 480 2612
They need full payment to secure your place.
They will also be running another BSL level 1 course starting in September 2025. Please use the above contact details to register your interest.
Volunteer Opportunity: Fibromyalgia Group
Details from Pure Innovations
Ben is looking for volunteers to help set up a peer support group for people living with Fibromyalgia. Ben was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia 2 years ago and is keen to set up a group to meet people living with Fibromyalgia, and help people to connect, socialise and share experiences.
The group will be a drop-in:
1st & 3rd Monday of the month, 10:30am-12pm
Vernon Park café
Interested? Email communityhub@pureinnovations.co.uk
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
GM Aging Hub
Age Friendly Greater Manchester - November 2024
One Stockport Family Hubs
Starting Point
Stockport Digital Champion Update - 2nd December 2024
Stockport Council
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.
