Healthwatch Round Up - 17 April 2025
Welcome to this week's Healthwatch Stockport Information Round-up!
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Healthwatch Stockport will be closed from 4.30pm, Thursday 17 April until 9am on Tuesday 22 April. Phone lines will open at 10am.
A reminder of what to do over the bank holidays, should you need medical support:
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Your pharmacy can see you without an appointment and recommend over-the-counter medicines. Remember to check their bank holiday opening times.
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When you use the right NHS service, you get the right treatment sooner. Not sure where to go?, visit 111.nhs.uk (24/7, all year). Press option 2 for mental health help
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Whether you have a pain in your gums, have a sudden change in your vision or need support for a mental health crisis, there are services there to help. Find the right urgent and emergency services for your needs.
Have a happy Easter and HUGE thanks to those who continue to work this weekend.
Focus On: Autism Awareness Month
World Autism Awareness Month offers a valuable opportunity to deepen understanding of autism and discover ways to support autistic people.
Healthwatch Stockport is committed to improving health and social care services for everyone in the community. As part of this commitment, we will be launching a new work programme reviewing accessibility to primary care with additional needs, such as autism. You can share your feedback with us:
Have your say Read the article
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
Coming up: to help raise awareness of Autism Acceptance Month, the Healthwatch Stockport team will be walking 5k on Friday 25 April around Woodbank Park.
Healthwatch Articles & Advice You May Have Missed
Please see the latest news, advice and support articles from us and Healthwatch England.
Your right to an NHS dentist
Read the article
Protections on NHS letter delivery agreed between Royal Mail, NHS leaders and patient bodies
Deal reached to provide extra funding for pharmacies
Read the article
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:
NHS to Get Own Postage Class
Details from Healthwatch England
The NHS will get its own postage class to help stop late letters leading to missed appointments, after lobbying from us and partner organisations. Under the new plans, specific barcodes will be introduced to automatically identify, separate and process patient letters.
This follows concerns that we and other patient bodies raised with Royal Mail and Ofcom last year in response to proposals to delay bulk mail of NHS appointment letters, and is a great example of us effectively working with others to ensure patient safety.
Focus On: Living Well in Stockport Model
Stockport has seen a significant increase in the diagnosis of serious mental health conditions in recent times. This has led to the development of the Living Well In Stockport Model. We need your lived experience feedback to help support this!
Living Well is part of Greater Manchester’s Community Mental Health Transformation, a commitment to improve the accessibility, quality, and impact of mental health care.
What does the Living Well model aim to do?
- Provide easy access to personalised care and support
- Empower individuals to manage their mental health
- Involve people’s lived experience in shaping services
- Connect primary and secondary services
- Work together with local groups and volunteer services
How can I contribute?
To share your experiences or to get involved with the programme, contact Maya:
maya@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
0161 974 0753 (Tuesday to Thursday)
Complete our quick survey here
Your voice matters! Get involved in shaping the future of mental health services in Stockport.
Have Your Say: Adult ADHD Services in Greater Manchester
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Join NHS Greater Manchester at an online public engagement session on Thursday 24 April, 11am -12.30pm, to talk about what ADHD services in Greater Manchester should look like in the future. The session is especially for Stockport residents or workers and is being hosted by Stockport’s Public Involvement Network.
You'll hear about two potential options on how best to support adults seeking diagnosis and/or support. NHS Greater Manchester wants to know which option you think is the best and why.
Thursday 24 April, 11am - 12.30pm
To book a place:
Email the Engagement team at gmhscp.engagement@nhs.net
Call or text 07786 673 762.
Feel free to share the details with your friends, colleagues and family. This won’t be the only way to get involved. The public consultation runs for eight weeks. More details will follow.
New Skin Cancer Vaccine Trial
Details from NHS England
Patients with advanced skin cancer are to be fast-tracked into trials of a new cancer vaccine, following the expansion of a world-leading NHS programme. The needle-free injection, which is given for up to two years, works by boosting the immune system and helping it recognise, attack and ‘remember’ cancer cells, to help stop the disease returning.
The Launch Pad has already begun helping thousands of patients to access trials of a personalised vaccine against bowel cancer, with more than 350 patients fast-tracked for consideration, and has now expanded to include a trial for melanoma. Melanoma is the 5th most common cancer in the UK, accounting for around 4% of all new cancer cases – with analysis by Cancer Research UK showing cases had risen by a third between 2009-2019.
Read full announcement on the NHS website
Have Your Say: Shape the National Cancer Plan
Details from Prostate Cancer UK
Don't forget to have your say..... the Government is setting out a programme of reforms to the health service and as part of this, it’s developing a national cancer plan for England.
Ministers want to find out how they can improve outcomes for cancer patients, speed up diagnosis and treatment, and make the best use of new technology to save lives.
What can I do to help shape the national cancer plan? To share your views, you can complete a survey on the Government’s website.
The survey closes on Tuesday 29 April.
Missed Your Invite For AAA Screening?
Details from NHS England
If you’re a man, aged 65 or older, and haven’t yet been for your free, 10-minute abdominal aortic aneurysm screening, don’t delay. The scan is painless, and can detect any swelling in your aorta, which is the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the abdomen.
All men are invited by the NHS for AAA screening in their 65th year, and you’ll only have the AAA screening test once, unless an aneurysm is found.
Find out more about AAA screening at: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening - NHS
We've also attached our AAA fact sheet
Diabetes Learning Zone App
Details from Diabetes UK
The Diabetes UK Learning Zone is an innovative, award-winning platform designed to support people living with Diabetes to manage their blood sugars, lower their risk of complications and live more confidently with the condition.
For more information and to access the free resources, visit Diabetes UK Learning Zone.
As Soon As Your Pregnant Campaign
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Co-designed with midwife services in Greater Manchester, a new campaign has launched to encourage people to book in with a midwife as soon as they're pregnant, ideally before 10 weeks.
Whether this is a first pregnancy or not, NHS Greater Manchester are here to support people every step of the way. There's a lot to consider when getting ready for the baby’s birth. From understanding the different tests and vaccinations available, to knowing what and what not to eat during pregnancy, it’s important to have this support to make informed decisions.
Check out NHS Greater Manchester's socials. Search for #ASAPGM and #MaternityGM
- Facebook @NHSGreaterManchester
- Instagram @nhs_gm
Antibiotic Awareness Campaign
Details from UK Health Security Agency
The UK Health Security Agency has launched a new campaign to raise awareness about the growing issue of antibiotic-resistant infections. Antibiotics are not working as well because they are being used too often or incorrectly. To help prevent this, only take antibiotics when prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist, never save or share leftovers, and avoid using them for viral illnesses (e.g. colds or flu).
You can help by practising good hand washing, getting the vaccinations you're eligible for, and spreading the word about the importance of using antibiotics correctly.
Service Overview: Carefree
Carefree is an organisation that matches vacant hotel rooms with unpaid carers wanting a break from their caring responsibilities. 95% of those who've accessed a break with Carefree said the break improved their wellbeing!
Signpost said, "We recently had a Signpost Carer take a break with Carefree. They said that whilst they can leave their son for short periods, they can't afford the expense of a night away to properly switch off and relax. Carefree allowed them to do this."
If you're interested in finding out more: https://carefreespace.org/
Speak to 'Signpost For Carers' for more information.
Service Overview: Virtual Village Hall
As a reminder - the Virtual Village Hall offers you a programme of themed online sessions led by expert tutors, Royal Voluntary Service activity coordinators and volunteers.
The activities are designed for people to do at home so they can enjoy the things they love and maybe even learn some new skills! These include yoga, listening books Q & A, flower illustration, French for beginners, Bollywood exercise, cooking and so much more.
Check out their Facebook: www.facebook.com/watch/VirtualVillageHall/
54321 in Aid of Three Charities
Details from Stockport County Community Trust
Five men are aiming to raise £6k+ for three charities, by walking around 113 miles from Peterborough United FC to Stockport County FC over the Easter weekend.
They'll leave Peterborough after the match on Good Friday and arrive in time for kick off against Huddersfield Town at Edgeley Park on Easter Monday. The final total of money raised will be split equally between the three charities; Pure Insight, which supports people who have been in care, Mentell, a mental health charity aimed at men, and the Kits by County campaign, which aims to provide free PE kits to children.
If you choose to donate, here is the link to how you can help.
Stockport County P.E Initiative
Details from Stockport County Community Trust
In a bid to encourage children to become more active and engage in PE, Stockport County Community Trust has launched a new initiative to provide PE kits to pupils in Stockport’s primary schools. The aim of the 12-month campaign is to raise enough funds to supply 12,500 PE Kits to primary school children in September 2025
Each week 'Give as you Live' make a payment to each of the charities, when the amount in 'the pot' is above £250 and will take their fee.
Get involved and find out more
Changes to Household Waste
Details from Stockport Council
The changes to green bin collections are underway with households needing a garden waste permit if you want to use your green bin to recycle garden waste. You can find all the details online - and there's a discounted rate if you receive Council Tax support.
Next month, they'll also be making changes to blue bin collections – they’ll move to every four weeks from 26 May. If you need more space, you can swap for a larger bin.
The new recycling calendars for the next 18 months are online - with paper copies being delivered to all Stockport households.
Get Involved: Stockport Pride
Details from Stockport Pride
Wanna be part of something fabulous this Pride? Join the team on our stall at Stockport Pride – Sunday 1 June! They’re looking for awesome humans to help out – and trust us, you do not want to miss this. Make art, create badges, chat to lovely people about who we are and how to get involve. It’s going to be colourful, creative, and full of community joy.
Easter Walk & Talk Session
Details from Coffee, Chill & Spill
Reminder - ‘Let’s Talk Boobs’ Workshop
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Please see flyer for ‘Lets Talk Boobs’ workshop for women with learning disabilities. This is aimed at women aged 49 - 70 years old.
Making Tracks Youth Project
Details from Making Music, Transforming Lives
They're facilitating a free music project called Making Tracks from 28 April - 2 May for young people in Manchester. The project will involve collaborating over five days to create original music, which they'll perform in a small showcase on the final day.
It’s a project for young people aged 18-25 who are NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training). No instrument or singing experience is required – just a love of music!
Taster day: 23 April, for young people to visit and get a sense of the project.
Sign up link: Making Tracks Manchester - Referral Form
Mental Health Community Fair
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, you’re invited to the Stockport VCFSE Mental Health Community Fair — a two-day event bringing together local voluntary sector organisations to celebrate and support mental health and wellbeing in our community.
Merseyway Shopping Centre, Stockport
12 and 13 May,10am – 2pm
Across the two-day event, there will be:
- Drop-in information stalls with local organisations
- Friendly advice and signposting
- Community activities and ideas for better mental wellbeing
The event is being organised by the VCFSE (Voluntary, Community, Faith, Social Enterprise) Mental Health Network. We'll share more details soon.
Free Easter Celebration Lunch
Details from Heaton Moor United Church
If you, or you know somebody within your community, church or group who'll be celebrating Easter on their own or need a carer/have caring responsibilities, join Heaton Moor United Church for a free celebration lunch! Booking is essential for catering purposes.
Contact Joanne 07340269354 or community@heatonmoorunitedchurch.org.uk
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Job Fair: Stockport NHS Job & Careers
Details from Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
Whether you`re looking to kickstart your career in healthcare or advance in your current role, this event is for you. The team will be showcasing all roles and opportunities within Stockport NHS from Nursing, to Estates, to Allied Health Professionals, to Administrative roles.
Stockport NHS Job and Career Fair Tickets, Sat 17 May 2025 at 09:00 | Eventbrite
If you have any further queries, email: stockport.nursing@stockport.nhs.uk
Job Opportunity: Social Care Officer Role
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council are looking for a Social Care Officer who wants to make a difference to the residents of Stockport lives, who can work collaboratively, think creatively and has a good level of communication and written skills.
- 30 hours, Part-Time & Permanent
- Hybrid: Baker Street and homeworking (min of two days per week in office plus a mobile working day when you would be expected to do visits)
Application Deadline: 27 April, 11:59pm
They may close this vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received.
Shortlisting Date: 30 April
Interview Date: 7 & 8 May
Click here for full job description
Training: Suicide Awareness (Professionals)
Details from Stockport Council
New dates for the popular Suicide Awareness for Professionals training have been announced. Training is free of charge for anyone working/volunteering in Stockport.
Course Details: Delivery Time: 2.5 hours
- 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 understanding of how distress develops and how people can be supported.
- Boosts confidence and skills practice of talking to someone in distress.
- Equips delegate with the knowledge of how to use www.StayingSafe.net to make their own Safety Plan
No prior experience required. Please CTRL & click on the following link:
SUICIDE AWARENESS FOR PROFESSIONALS BOOKING FORM
If you'd like further information, email info.wellbeing@stockport.gov.uk.
Training: Connect 5 Mental Health Course
Details from Sector 3
The Connect 5 programme is a series of mental health training modules designed to help people have better mental wellbeing conversations in the workplace. Connect 5 training enables us to provide better mental health support, break down barriers, raise awareness and understanding and ultimately improve wellbeing and conversation across Stockport.
Mental Health Awareness Week - Connect 5 mental wellbeing conversation workshop
22 May from 10am -1pm
Family Hubs, Abingdon Road, Reddish, SK5 7EU.
Workshops: Feeling Low?
Details from Stockport Talking Therapies
Have you been feeling low? If you’ve been struggling with low mood, motivation, or unhelpful thoughts, you don’t have to face it alone. Join Stockport Talking Therapy's FREE 8-week workshop, in partnership with Stockport County Community Trust.
Based on CBT (Cognitive Behavourial Therapy), it offers practical skills for improving your mental wellbeing, boost motivation, challenge unhelpful thoughts and take control of your mood
Starting 30 April (10am-11am)
Edgeley Park, Stockport, SK3 9DD.
Visit www.thebiglifegroup.com/stockporttalkingtherapies
0161 480 2020 and request 'Stockport County Group'
Webinars: MyWay Diabetes Webinars
Details from Diabetes Network
My Way Diabetes is a free online platform helping people with all types of diabetes to learn more about their condition. 20-minute update sessions are available in May for healthcare professionals with an interest or role in diabetes support or care. Register for the webinars by following the links below:
My Way Diabetes Webinar Tuesday, May 6, 12-12:30pm
My Way Diabetes Webinar Wednesday, May 7, 12:30-1pm
My Way Diabetes Webinar Tuesday, May 13, 12-12:30pm
My Way Diabetes Webinar Wednesday, May 14, 12:30-1pm
My Way Diabetes Webinar Tuesday, May 20, 1-1:30pm
My Way Diabetes Webinar Wednesday, May 21, 12-12:30pm
Webinars: For Parents & Carers of Neurodivergent Children
Details from Stockport Council
The Stockport Neurodevelopmental Team will be two webinars designed to support parents and carers of neurodivergent children and young adults.
Understanding Anxiety
Join them on 29 April, 6pm to 7:30pm, for an online session focused on understanding anxiety in children. You'll learn to recognise the signs of anxiety and explore effective strategies to manage it at home.
Improving Sleep
On 30 April, they'll address the unique challenges and barriers that affect sleep in neurodivergent children, also providing practical strategies to help improve sleep patterns.
Training: EPEC Parent-led Courses
Details from Stockport Council
Join the EPEC parent-led courses for parents and carers of adolescents aged 11 to 16. Stockport Empowering Parents Empowering Communities (EPEC) is a popular parenting programme delivered for parents, and by parents, in their own communities.
They offer a mix of workshops and courses, virtual and face to face, helping parents to learn practical communication skills essential for navigating everyday challenges.
If you're interested, fill out the expression of interest form. Their team will send you an invitation when the next term's courses are about to begin.
One Stockport Family Hub, Westmorland Drive, Brinnington, SK5 8HH
Training: Neurodiversity Community Training
Details from Sector 3
As part of the all-age Autism Strategy, Sector 3 have recruited lived experience experts to design and deliver a neurodiversity training package to support local businesses.
29 April from 10am – 11am.
Tier 1 of the training is available. They've provided a session to watch this 25-minute recording, which aims to raise awareness and promote inclusion of our neurodivergent community.
Training: Makaton Taster Session
Makaton is a language programme that uses speech, signs and symbols to support communication. It is often used with children and adults who are experiencing difficulties with their speech, language and communication.
This short taster gives you a general introduction into what Makaton is and who uses it. You will learn 30+ signs and symbols to get you started.
Online on 3 July from 10am – 11:30am
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:
Answer Cancer
Diabetes UK
Diabetes UK Team North Health System Update
Sector 3
GM Live Well and the VCFSE sector, grant management toolkit and more
Starting Point
Stockport Council
Stockport Race & Equality News
Information and Advice
For up to date health and social care information, signposting and guidance, call Healthwatch Stockport on
0161 974 0753 10am - 2pm
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.
