Archive for the ‘Support services’ Category
Friday, April 1st, 2011
The NHS has launched a major public consultation on the way children’s congenital heart services should be provided in the future. The NHS is urging everyone with an interest in children’s congenital heart services to take part in the consultation and have their say on these vital services. Full details are on our website: www.specialisedservices.nhs.uk/safeandsustainable.
Children’s heart surgery is complex and becoming increasingly specialised. The NHS Safe and Sustainable review aims to improve outcomes for children with congenital heart disease by introducing new national quality standards, developing children’s heart networks and pooling surgical expertise. Safe and Sustainable is proposing four options to reduce the number of hospitals providing children’s heart surgery from 11 to six or seven to improve results for children. The review also proposes that many non-surgical services, such as diagnosis, assessments and ongoing care, are provided closer to families’ homes.
We are consulting on the following key areas
- Standards of care: proposed national quality standards of care to be applied consistently across the country
- Congenital heart networks: development of networks to coordinate care and ensure more local provision (eg assessment, ongoing care)
- Options for fewer surgical centres: to improve outcomes for children’s heart surgery in the future
- Better Monitoring: improvements for analysis and reporting of mortality and morbidity data.
Leslie Hamilton, Immediate Past President for the Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery and Vice Chairman of the Safe and Sustainable Steering Group said: “This consultation is about improving the quality of care for children with congenital heart disease (CHD). We must concentrate surgical expertise in larger (and therefore fewer) centres to ensure we produce better outcomes for children and ensure services are safe and sustainable for the future. I urge patients and families to respond to the consultation. This is the most important opportunity people will have to directly influence the outcome of the consultation.”
Posted in Children's health, Commissioning, Communications and FOI, Heart conditions, How we make decisions, News, Press release, Public and patient liaison, What our priorities are and how we are doing, What we spend and how we spend it, Who we are and what we do | No Comments »
Monday, February 14th, 2011
NHS Birmingham East and North is campaigning to encourage mothers to exercise their rights to feed their babies in public. As well as holding sessions for new and expectant mums, the campaign encourages businesses to become breastfeeding-friendly.
The campaign targets mums and businesses in east and north Birmingham where breastfeeding rates are low. Breastfeeding gives babies the best start in life and can help reduce the number of babies that are admitted to hospital. Mothers who start and continue breastfeeding can improve mother and infant health, and also prevent obesity, diabetes and cancer.
Free and informal sessions are being held at venues across east and north Birmingham to support new mums to:
- Prepare for those first moments together
- Understand what a baby’s needs will be
- Learn all about breastfeeding.
Businesses can show their support by achieving some simple quality standards and becoming a ‘Breastfeeding Friendly Business’.
By implementing these standards, a business can create a welcoming and supportive environment in which breastfeeding women will feel supported and valued.
Download some of the marketing materials below to show your support.
Marketing materials
Download and print the resources below to show your support for our breastfeeding campaign.
| Platforms: | Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 |
|---|
| Category: | Communications And Foi |
|---|
| License: | Freeware |
|---|
| Date: | February 14, 2011 |
|---|
| Platforms: | Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 |
|---|
| Category: | Communications And Foi |
|---|
| License: | Freeware |
|---|
| Date: | February 14, 2011 |
|---|
Posted in Acocks Green, Breastfeeding, Children, Communications and FOI, Featured, General public, Health improvement, Kingstanding, News, Parents, Pregnant women, Press release, The services we offer, What our priorities are and how we are doing, Women | No Comments »
Thursday, December 9th, 2010
With winter well and truly here, NHS Birmingham East and North is issuing advice on how to stay warm and well during the colder weather.
Cold weather, especially during the winter months, can lead to serious health problems like heart attacks, strokes and even pneumonia. Every winter in the UK, 25-30,000 deaths are linked to the cold weather, with the elderly and vulnerable being more at risk.
To help, NHS Birmingham East and North has issued top tips for staying warm this winter. These include wearing plenty of thin layers of clothing, instead of one thick jumper, and helping your body to stay warm by eating a well balanced diet. People should aim to eat at least one hot meal a day and drink plenty of hot drinks throughout the day.
If you do venture outside, dress for winter! Put on a coat, hat, scarf, gloves and warm shoes or boots. Simple exercises, like walking, will get the blood pumping round your body faster and also help make you warmer.
Make sure your home is well insulated. Contact the Warm Front Scheme on freephone 0800 316 2805 for more information and to find out if you are eligible for a grant. When indoors, close any doors to rooms you aren’t using and keep the main rooms you use well heated.
Remember, when it’s freezing temperatures outside, it’s even more important to keep warm inside. If you are worried about a relative or elderly neighbour, contact your local council, or ring the Age UK helpline free on 0800 00 99 66.
Nicola Benge, Director of Health Improvement at NHS Birmingham East and North, said: “With the colder weather and freezing temperatures on the way, the elderly and vulnerable are at particular risk. There are plenty of services who can offer support and advice, and these simple tips will help people stay warm and healthy in the run up to Christmas and beyond.”
Ends
Enquiries
For more information, please contact Sarah Millard, NHS Birmingham East and North Senior Communications Manager, on 0121 380 0620.
Notes to editors
NHS Birmingham East and North is one of 152 primary care trusts (PCTs) within the English NHS. As a PCT, it is responsible for the wise investment of public money to ensure health improvement, access to health services and where appropriate the provision of health services to a local population of some 438,000 people, across 17 wards in north and east Birmingham.
We organise and fund the delivery of health care with the involvement of local people, maximising health outcomes for every pound spent, referred to as commissioning.
Posted in General public, Health advice, Health improvement, News, Press release, What our priorities are and how we are doing, Who we are and what we do | No Comments »
Wednesday, December 8th, 2010
While winter’s darker evenings can be a turn-off when it comes to exercising, NHS Birmingham East and North is urging people not to be discouraged.
Exercise has many benefits, including giving you more energy, which will help you get out of your bed on cold, dark mornings. Physical activity also helps to improve your blood circulation and generate heat, so activity will help you keep warm when it’s chilly, your immune system will get a boost, killing germs and viruses, and your mood will be better.
Adults should aim to do a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity at least five times a week, while children should do 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each day. For activity to be beneficial, it should make you feel warm and slightly out of breath.
However, if you’re starting a new exercise regime, don’t overdo it. Slowly build the amount of exercise you do. If you can’t manage 30 minutes in one go, break it up into 10 minute chunks. Always warm up for up to 10 minutes before you start. Fit exercise into your lifestyle – walking the dog, doing the housework and even raking up leaves in the garden all count towards your physical activity.
Now might be the time to try something new, such as salsa dancing, swimming, fitness classes or other indoor sports such as badminton or five-a-side football. You don’t even have to stop doing outdoor activities: you could take a long walk at the weekend or go for a bike ride. If being outside when it’s windy, raining or snowing doesn’t appeal, borrow a fitness DVD and try some exercising at home.
If you’re exercising after dark, keep to well-lit areas and wear bright and reflective clothing. Ideally, exercise with a friend, but always tell someone where you’re going. Avoid listening to music while running outdoors as this can make you vulnerable.
Nicola Benge, Director of Health Improvement at NHS Birmingham East and North, said: “Exercise is an essential part of any healthy lifestyle, whatever the season. It’s easy to fit physical activity into your daily routine, and you should do something that you enjoy. However, you should stay safe while exercising during the colder weather. If rain or ice is making exercise dangerous, do it another day. The weather might be better tomorrow, but an injury could take weeks to heal.”
Ends
Enquiries
For more information, please contact Sarah Millard, NHS Birmingham East and North Senior Communications Manager, on 0121 380 0620.
Notes to editors
NHS Birmingham East and North is one of 152 primary care trusts (PCTs) within the English NHS. As a PCT, it is responsible for the wise investment of public money to ensure health improvement, access to health services and where appropriate the provision of health services to a local population of some 438,000 people, across 17 wards in north and east Birmingham.
We organise and fund the delivery of health care with the involvement of local people, maximising health outcomes for every pound spent, referred to as commissioning.
Posted in General public, Health advice, Health improvement, News, Press release, What our priorities are and how we are doing, Who we are and what we do | No Comments »
Thursday, December 2nd, 2010
With days getting shorter, and the pressure of Christmas shopping weighing on your mind, winter can leave you feeling stressed and down.
Winter depression (seasonal affective disorder or SAD) is thought to affect up to one in 15 Brits every year between the months of September and April.
Now NHS Birmingham East and North is offering advice to help melt those winter blues. This includes starting your New Year’s resolutions early by cutting back on alcohol and tobacco. Although they make you feel good in the short term, their longer term effects can make you feel more down. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables can improve mental health and make you feel better.
People should also sleep well, aiming for eight hours shut-eye every night. Not only will you feel the benefits, but your skin will see them too. Going for a walk or other forms of physical activity can also help you keep mentally well. Half an hour’s brisk walk, every other day can help make all the difference.
Nicola Benge, Director of Health Improvement at NHS Birmingham East and North, said: “Many people in east and north Birmingham experience a milder form of SAD, known as the winter blues. These simple tips will help people stay physically and mentally well in the run up to Christmas and beyond.”
Ends
Enquiries
For more information, please contact Sarah Millard, NHS Birmingham East and North Senior Communications Manager, on 0121 380 0620.
Notes to editors
NHS Birmingham East and North is one of 152 primary care trusts (PCTs) within the English NHS. As a PCT, it is responsible for the wise investment of public money to ensure health improvement, access to health services and where appropriate the provision of health services to a local population of some 438,000 people, across 17 wards in north and east Birmingham.
We organise and fund the delivery of health care with the involvement of local people, maximising health outcomes for every pound spent, referred to as commissioning.
Posted in General public, Health advice, Health improvement, Mental health, News, Press release, What our priorities are and how we are doing, Who we are and what we do | No Comments »
Wednesday, December 1st, 2010
A brand new magazine packed full of real life stories is out to give women the low down on breast cancer screening, fronted by local celebrity Rustie Lee.
Live It! produced by NHS Birmingham East and North is available free in shops and businesses in Erdington, Castle Vale and Sutton New Hall. Cover star Rustie, who is originally from Birmingham, came to fame as a TV chef on TV AM in the 1980s, and is thrilled to be involved with the magazine, and enthusiastic about encouraging women to get themselves checked out.
Rustie said: “I’ve been to the screening programme myself and I encourage everyone to attend the programme when called up.”
The new publication coincides with many women from area being invited to have their mammograms, helping to dispel myths and provide reassurance.
All women aged between 49 and 70 are invited to have their breasts checked for breast cancer every three years, but not everyone chooses to come along. NHS Birmingham East and North wants to encourage as many women as possible to have the test – which takes just minutes, but can provide real peace of mind.
Public Health Consultant Jacquie Ashdown said: “Having a mammogram only takes a few minutes, and the screening team are all women and really friendly. Most people get the all clear, but for those few who don’t, it means we can treat them for breast cancer that much earlier. I’m really looking forward to reading my copy of Live It! and I hope that other readers enjoy it, and are inspired to use their appointment – it may even save your life.”
The magazine includes celebrity interviews, real life stories about cancer, healthy tasty recipes, two chances to win £100 shopping vouchers and plenty more. Pick up your copy at your local shop, hair salon or community centre in Erdington, Castle Vale and Sutton New Hall.
Ends
Enquiries
For more information, please contact Sarah Millard, NHS Birmingham East and North External Communications Manager, on 0121 380 0620.
Notes to editors
NHS Birmingham East and North is one of 152 primary care trusts (PCTs) within the English NHS. As a PCT, it is responsible for the wise investment of public money to ensure health improvement, access to health services and where appropriate the provision of health services to a local population of some 438,000 people, across 17 wards in north and east Birmingham.
We organise and fund the delivery of health care with the involvement of local people, maximising health outcomes for every pound spent, referred to as commissioning.
Posted in Breastfeeding, Community health services, General public, Health improvement, News, Parents, Pregnant women, Press release, The services we offer, What our priorities are and how we are doing, Who we are and what we do | No Comments »
Friday, November 5th, 2010
The Lord Mayor of Birmingham and the local MP made it a day to remember on 5 November as they opened an innovative High Street health centre in Erdington.
Believed to be one of the first health facilities of its kind in the UK, the Erdington Health and Wellbeing Walk in Centre occupies a prime position at 196 High Street, Erdington. Behind a “shop window”, the newly refurbished building hosts a variety of NHS and other health services over the three floors.
The ground floor houses a health and local services information shop, provided by Health Exchange. Shoppers can pop in for health information and advice, and there is space for groups and organisations to deliver services for the local community, including stop smoking sessions, Health Exchange’s Health Trainer service and the Expert Patient Programme.
On the first floor is a new GP practice and GP-led health centre, run by Badger Midlands Medical. People can walk in and see a GP without an appointment between 8am and 8pm every day, 365 days a year, or register for appointments at the practice either in person or by calling 0121 686 8010.
On the second floor, young people can access free contraceptive services and other sexual health services on a walk-in basis at the New Attitudes contraception and sexual health centre.
The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Len Gregory, and Erdington MP Jack Dromey cut a ribbon to officially open the centre, after taking a tour of the new facilities and chatting to staff and patients.
Councillor Gregory said: “I am delighted to be opening the Erdington Health and Wellbeing Walk in Centre. The centre, with its High Street location, makes it easy for people to drop in to access a variety of high quality health information and services, including GPs. The centre will benefit hundreds of people living in and around Erdington, who now have access to a GP without an appointment all year round.”
Paul Sabapathy CBE, Chair of NHS Birmingham East and North, said: “Everyone worked very hard on getting the centre ready for patients, and we are thrilled that the Lord Mayor and local MP officially opened the building. The practice was developed thanks to extra funding to open practices in areas such as Erdington that have lower levels of GPs.”
Ends
Enquiries
Above is a photograph of the Lord Mayor of Birmingham Councillor Len Gregory, Paul Sabapathy and Jack Dromey MP officially opening the Erdington Health and Wellbeing Walk-in Centre.
For more information, please contact Sarah Millard, NHS Birmingham East and North External Communications Manager, on 0121 380 0620.
Notes to editors
NHS Birmingham East and North is one of 152 primary care trusts (PCTs) within the English NHS. As a PCT, it is responsible for the wise investment of public money to ensure health improvement, access to health services and where appropriate the provision of health services to a local population of some 438,000 people, across 17 wards in north and east Birmingham.
We organise and fund the delivery of health care with the involvement of local people, maximising health outcomes for every pound spent, referred to as commissioning.
About Health Exchange
Health Exchange is a social enterprise dedicated to encouraging people to make positive choices to improve their health and wellbeing. Working directly with individuals, and through local community organisations, primary care centres, GP practices and pharmacies, they provide information, signposting and support to enable people to choose a healthier lifestyle. Their website is at www.healthexchange.org.uk.
Badger Healthcare is a local, not-for-profit organisation. It provides GP out-of-hours services to patients in six PCTs in the Birmingham and surrounding areas. Badger Healthcare is part of the Badger Group, developed by a co-operative of GPs in Birmingham and Solihull.
Midlands Medical Partnership is a partnership of 26 Birmingham General Practitioners who provide NHS GP services to 48,000 patients across Birmingham.
New Attitudes is a free NHS contraception and sexual health clinic open six days a week as a drop-in service. It will provide all methods of contraception and testing, treatment and screening of sexually transmitted infections. This service will also provide support and training for GPs, nurses and other professional in contraception and sexual health.
Posted in Commissioning, Community health services, Emergencies and urgent care, Erdington, Erdington Health and Wellbeing Walk in Centre, General public, Health improvement, News, Press release, Sexual health, The services we offer, Walk-in centres, Who we are and what we do | No Comments »
Thursday, November 4th, 2010
A community project in Birmingham is helping young people with their personal, spiritual and social development with a series of new sports sessions.
Start Again provides a range of opportunities to enable young people with, or at risk of developing mental health issues, to develop their understanding and skills by providing a tailored package of support, including physical activities, to promote general wellbeing, social inclusion and motivation.
Football sessions are held at Yardley Powerleague, at 21 Sedgemere Road, on Mondays from 12 – 2pm and are led by fully qualified football coaches.
Netball sessions also run at Nechells Community Centre every Friday between 2pm and 3pm.
Valerie Morton, Health Advisor at Start Again, said: “Physical exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on an individual’s ability to manage their mental health issues. Through our sports sessions, we aim to promote healthy living, social inclusion, motivation and self-confidence in our participants. People taking part in the sessions are better able to manage their mental health issues and have greater general wellbeing, so relying less on prescription medication.
“Both the football and netball sessions help inspire young people to set their own goals and provide relevant and appropriate opportunities to young people, as well as giving them the opportunity to socialise and have fun.”
To join the sessions, young people can ask their GP or support service to refer them, or they can complete the referral form on the website at www.start-again.co.uk. Alternatively, people can contact Val on 07722766047 or email info@start-again.co.uk.
Ends
Enquiries
You are invited to send a reporter/photographer to the football session at Aston Powerleague, on Tuesday or Thursday at 12 – 2pm. On arrival, please ask for Mark Peters.
For more information, please contact Sarah Millard, NHS Birmingham East and North External Communications Manager, on 0121 380 0620.
Notes to editors
NHS Birmingham East and North is one of 152 primary care trusts (PCTs) within the English NHS. As a PCT, it is responsible for the wise investment of public money to ensure health improvement, access to health services and where appropriate the provision of health services to a local population of some 438,000 people, across 17 wards in north and east Birmingham.
We organise and fund the delivery of health care with the involvement of local people, maximising health outcomes for every pound spent, referred to as commissioning.
Posted in Children, General public, Health improvement, Mental health, News, Press release, What our priorities are and how we are doing | No Comments »
Thursday, November 4th, 2010
Families in the north and east of Birmingham can now work together to get fitter and healthier, thanks to a new online tool launched this week.
My Family Plan is a free website that helps families to make simple changes to their lifestyles to improve their health and wellbeing. Families complete an online questionnaire, with the answers generating a report tailored just for them. The report helps families to set health and lifestyle goals, and family members taking part get regular support from an online personal trainer to motivate them in reaching their goals.
When families sign up they are also able to download recipes, access information on healthy eating, find physical activity opportunities in their area and explore links to other sites to help them achieve their goals.
Linda Hindle, Dietician at NHS Birmingham East and North, said: “Recent statistics shows that one in 10 children in the Birmingham East and North area are obese by the time they start school, and by year six, that figure doubles to one in four in some areas. In today’s society, with easy access to fast food and less opportunity for activity, it is becoming harder for families to follow a healthy lifestyle.
“This new website gives families advice that is specific to them, showing what they are doing well already and giving advice on what small changes they make to their lifestyles, which can make a big difference to their health. Working together means that family members can motivate each other to improve their health, as well as getting support from the online trainer.”
To register for My Family Plan, go to https://myfamily.getfit.com.
Ends
Enquiries
For more information, please contact Sarah Millard, NHS Birmingham East and North External Communications Manager, on 0121 380 0620.
Notes to editors
NHS Birmingham East and North is one of 152 primary care trusts (PCTs) within the English NHS. As a PCT, it is responsible for the wise investment of public money to ensure health improvement, access to health services and where appropriate the provision of health services to a local population of some 438,000 people, across 17 wards in north and east Birmingham.
We organise and fund the delivery of health care with the involvement of local people, maximising health outcomes for every pound spent, referred to as commissioning.
Posted in Children's health, Families, General public, Health advice, Health improvement, News, Press release, The services we offer | No Comments »
Friday, October 15th, 2010
It is Alcohol Awareness Week from Monday 18th October to Sunday 24th October. Follow these top tips to make sure you don’t let alcohol get the better of you.
Top tips for safe drinking
If you’re getting ready for a big night out the tips below are worth remembering before you start a drinking session. They could stop you getting a nasty hangover – or even save your life.
- Eat before you go out, or early in the evening, to reduce the effects of your drinking
- Remember, it’s not about saving up your units for the week and cramming them all into one evening
- Drink water regularly during the evening and before you go to bed
- Take a break if you think the drink is hitting you too quickly
- Pace yourself with soft drinks – a tonic looks the same with or without vodka
- Don’t try to keep up with friends who drink more than you – that’s their choice
- Don’t mix alcohol with drugs of any kind, but especially ecstasy or cocaine: it can be deadly
- If you’re on medication, ask your doctor if it’s safe to drink
- After a session of heavy drinking take a break for 48 hours to let your body recover
Getting home
Always remember to take care of yourself and your mates, from when to cross the road, to who to go home with, alcohol affects your judgement. When you’re out drinking make sure you’ve got enough money for a taxi home and the phone number of a reliable taxi firm. If you’re getting the bus or train, arrange to go with a friend. Never let a drunk friend go home alone.
Know your limits
The NHS recommends that:
- Men should not regularly drink more than three to four units of alcohol per day;
- Women should not regularly drink more than two to three units of alcohol per day.
You should also take a break for 48 hours after a heavy session to let your body recover.
The recommended ‘safe’ limits are there as a guide to help people have a good time without ruining their night out, and potentially, harming themselves long term.
Do you know how many units are in your favorite drinks?
- A large glass (250ml) of red, rose or white wine (13% alcohol content) - 3.3 units
- A pint of strong lager (i.e. Stella) - 3 units
- A standard glass (175ml) of champagne or sparkling wine (12% alcohol content) - 2.1 units
- A double vodka (70ml) - 2.7 units
Too much alcohol can
- Make you prone to erratic behaviour – arguing, fighting and drink driving
- Cause physical difficulties and/or injury
- Cause long term health problems – heart disease, cancer and liver problems
- Affect your judgement and make you vulnerable
- Make you pile on the pounds
Information and advice
If you’re concerned about your drinking or someone else’s drinking you can call 0800 073 0817 for information and advice about alcohol services in Birmingham. Or you can visit the BDAAT website at www.bdaat.co.uk
Useful links
Tags: bdaat
Posted in Alcohol, General public, Health improvement, News, Press release, What our priorities are and how we are doing | No Comments »
