Healthwatch Stockport

We hope you’re keeping yourself warm and looking after yourselves, whether you’re at home, work or out and about. Today we’re shining a spotlight on your mental wellbeing and the importance of making it a priority. It’s so easy to be rushing around, spreading yourself thinly or even reflecting on times and loved ones. You may already have mental health struggles. We want to remind you to take a breath, ‘just be’ for a while and give yourself some kindness and self care. If you’re going through a tough time and need support, it’s okay to ask for help. We may all need a helping hand from time to time. Why not speak to a loved one, family or friend, colleague or neighbour you trust?! For anyone who needs support right now. CALM - 0800585858 Mind - 03001233393 No Panic - 08449674848 Bereavement - 08088081677 PAPYRUS - 08000684141 Samaritans - 116 123 SHOUT - Text SHOUT to 85258 Abuse - 0808 2000 247 Refuge - 020 7395 7700 NHS 111 (mental health option 2) if you’re in crisis. There are also lots of incredible local charities, organisations, community groups who want to help you, including: @stockportmind @beechwoodccc @opendoor_stockport @fikawelie @samaritanscharity @beaconcounselling Somebody's Dad @tlc_charity @shiningalightonsuicide @kooth_uk, @mentell @dadmattersuk @Igbt @arccentre and more. Check their individual opening times. #selfcare #christmas #mentalhealth #mentalillness #kindness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #youmatter #selflove #youarenotalone #counselling #stockport #stockportcommunity #healthwatchstockport #healthwatch #healthcare #socialcare #healthandsocialcare #healthystockport #greatermanchester #greatermanchesterhealth #livewellstockport #wellbeing

After a very busy year at Healthwatch Stockport, our team are looking forward to the festive break and use it as a chance to recharge our batteries ready for a great start to 2025! We simply can’t thank everyone enough who has been a part of our Healthwatch Stockport journey this year. Before 2024 closes, we’ve published our end of year E-bulletin complete with our Christmas message, opening hours, our Winter advice booklet, INFORM newsletter and much more. Visit: https://lnkd.in/eueGRbbx Have a joyful and restful festive break and a happy New Year. From the Healthwatch Stockport Team #message #thanks #happychristmas #social #news #christmas #winter #bulletin #local #support #independent #advice #champion #healthwatchstockport #stockport #healthwatch #healthcare #socialcare #greatermanchester #wellbeing

We’re sharing ‘stay safe’ tips to help you during the darker months. The likes of Strut Safe, Walk Safe and Ask Angela are all initiatives to support you if you ever feel unsafe or threatened. Strut Safe: a UK-wide phone line. If you’re walking alone, their volunteers will keep you company and help you feel safe until you’re through the door. WalkSafe+: a personal safety app which combines journey-sharing and a national Safe Space map. Safe Spaces offer facilities such as phone charging and free period products, enabling you to find help in real-time on your way home. Ask For Angela: if you’re in a situation that isn’t safe/ feels uncomfortable, you can discreetly ask for help from staff at local pubs/venues, through the Ask For Angela initiative. See posters at premises. Staff may reunite you with a friend, see you to a taxi, or if it’s a serious safety issue, alert security/police. Tips….. 1. Pay attention to your surroundings 2. Keep phones, wallets etc out of sight 3. Stick to well-lit areas with street lights 4. Keep your phone charged so you can call someone if you need help. 5. Plan the safest route via mapping apps 6. If you must wear headphones, turn them down to hear traffic/noises. 7. If you’re going out, arrange a lift with friends/family, or book a taxi. 8. Wear reflective clothing to help drivers see you in low visibility. #safety #strutsafe #askforangela

We’ve published issue 6 of our ‘Inform’ newsletter! It brings news with added Winter /Christmas vibes. Find out what we’ve been up to; our 2024 highlights, our Network events, our focus on Child and Young People's mental health services, Winter care advice and more. Thanks to those who’ve been instrumental to our work and supported us throughout 2024. Visit: https://lnkd.in/etzUWD2W to read ‘Inform’ Enjoy a read at your leisure and please share with colleagues, family and friends! #newsletter #inform #magazine #social #news #christmas #winter #feedback #communication #getinvolved #membership #news #local #support #children #patientexperience #independent #advice #champion #healthwatchstockport #stockport #healthwatch #healthcare #socialcare #greatermanchester #wellbeing

The office will be closed from 4pm, Friday 20 December until 10am, Monday 6 January,. We’ll monitor emails and phone messages intermittently during this time.

Make sure to register for the Weather-Health Alerting system! to receive cold - health alerts. Stay on top of the #weather as an extra way to help you stay warm and well. orlo.uk/PR7oF #winter #support #health #community #healthwatchstockport #stockport #wellbeing

Last month, we supported Stockport colleagues in NHS Greater Manchester (GM) to host a public listening event. As part of a wider GM-wide consultation, we wanted to hear from you about transforming an NHS, Fit for the Future. The event outlined plans for Stockport and GM and didn’t shy away from the financial challenges the health and care system are currently facing. 'Round table’ discussions enabled people to share what they thought, what could be done differently and how people wanted to be involved going forward. We finished the afternoon with a Q&A Session for people to ask their burning questions. #NHS #Fitforthefuture #NHSF4F

Last week... together with our neighbours at Stockport Advocacy, we sprinkled some extra festive cheer over a hot cuppa or two and delicious mince pies. Residents, members and local health and care professionals joined us as we kickstarted our countdown to Christmas in great spirits with fantastic company, festive music, tasty treats, Christmas jumpers, and raffle prizes! #event #christmas #cofeemorning #festivities

To maintain your well-being, prioritise vaccinations, follow prescribed medications, and take care of your mental health. Be aware of options to alleviate pressure on GPs and emergency services. Use this guide to determine the best option for you. Self care: If it’s a minor cut, graze, bruise, minor sprain, cough or cold; visit https://ow.ly/RPFK50UsI2P Think pharmacy first: a pharmacy can help with some health issues and suggest medications. Sometimes, they can even provide treatment and prescriptions for certain conditions without you needing to see a GP. Visit: https://ow.ly/hnrU50UsI2O NHS 111: provides quick support for minor ailments. Call: 111 or visit: https://ow.ly/Hvgn50UsI2N GP service: There are staff at your GP surgery who can help with ongoing health issues, preventive care, and management of chronic conditions. See the Who’s Who at your GP practice: https://ow.ly/SzLq50UsI2R Use our Winter booklet for tips, advice and more to help you stay well. Visit: https://ow.ly/EaMv50UsI2Q #winteradvice

Our ‘What to know this Winter’ booklet shares valuable info to help you and your loved ones stay well. Read our flip book on our website or download and share with others. For a printed version - email info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk or call 0161 974 0753 for a copy. Today is about taking care at home. Here are some quick tips to get us started... Layer up! Many thinner layers are better than one thick layer as they trap heat. Extra socks are a must! Eat and drink! Eat healthily and keep drinking those hot drinks Move around! Avoid sitting still for long - keep active.This will boost your circulation and keep you warm. Hot water bottles! Cost effective and long lasting, you can have it with you in the day and in bed Cosy up! Use throws and blankets for extra warmth Keep draughts at bay! Invest in an excluder or thicker curtains if you can. Close doors to keep your room warm. We’ll be back with more help..... #winteradvice #healthwatchstockport #stockport