Awareness Days this month

World Braille Day, 4th January

World Braille Day is an annual celebration of the importance of Braille, and the difference it’s made to communication for visually impaired and blind people. https://www.un.org/en/observances/braille-day
(NB: If you have resources in your practice that are written in Braille, highlight in your post that you have these available! For example: “Ask us for our Braille Patient Leaflet.”)

National Obesity Awareness Week, 10th – 16th January

Losing weight can be a struggle, but setting small goals can help you achieve and maintain your goals in the long term.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/managing-your-weight/tips-to-help-you-lose-weight/

This January, try something different to help you achieve your weight-loss goals!

• Get active every day
• Aim to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables daily
• Cut down on sugar, fat and salt
• Read the coding on food labels – opt for green rather than red!

If you’re aiming to lose weight this January, it’s important to get support to help you achieve your goals. Book an appointment with our weight-loss team today via our online form/phone or download the free NHS plan here: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/lose-weight/

Paget’s Disease Awareness Day, 11th January

Paget’s disease of bone is a chronic disease of the skeleton. Early diagnosis is important to help reduce pain and anxiety in sufferers.
https://paget.org.uk/get-involved/pagets-awareness-day/

Early intervention is important in Paget’s disease to prevent irreversible bone damage. Listen to Geraldine’s story here: https://youtu.be/7NtmobanpiU

STIQ Day, 14th January

Did you know it can take two weeks for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to be detectable? Even if you have no symptoms, you could still be carrying an infection. Make sure you get tested if you think you’re at risk. http://www.stiq.co.uk/about/

Getting routinely tested for STIs can help detect an infection earlier, which can help prevent long-term damage. Find your local sexual health clinic here: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/sexual-health-services/find-a-sexual-health-clinic

Samaritans’ Brew Monday, 20th January

Following a busy month, the third Monday in January is thought to be the most challenging for many people, but if you’re struggling, every day can be so difficult. The Samaritans are here whenever you need them; just call 116 123 or reach out here: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/

‘Brew Monday’ highlights the importance of getting together and chatting. It’s really important to make time for a cuppa and a catch-up!
https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/brew-monday/

Listening to someone who’s opening up about their worries and difficulties can help them to work through their problems and make them feel a little better. Here are some useful tips to brush up your listening skills, to help support the people around you:
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/if-youre-worried-about-someone-else/little-tips/

If you’re having more bad days than good days, or you’re feeling low, please do call for an appointment. We’re here to support you. (INSERT BOOKING DETAILS – i.e., online, phone, etc.)

Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, 22nd – 28th January

It’s really important to attend your cervical screening when you receive your invitation. This test checks for a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), and catching this early can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer developing.
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cervical-cancer/getting-diagnosed/screening/about

Cervical screening is free for anyone with a cervix, between the ages of 25-64. It’s not a test for cancer, but detects a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). High-risk HPV may cause cellular changes which could develop into cancer over time, although not all cell changes will cause cancer. Regular screening is essential to catch any changes quickly. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cervical-cancer/getting-diagnosed/screening/about

Some people can be anxious about having a cervical screening test. It can be helpful to know what to expect when you come for your appointment. Book with our nurse. (INSERT BOOKING DETAILS.)
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cervical-cancer/getting-diagnosed/screening/about

Anytime in January

New year, new challenges

Did you start the new year with a resolution? Why not share your tips for sticking with those plans below! It might just help someone who’s struggling to meet their goals.

Thinking of changing your lifestyle for the new year? Whether you’re trying to exercise more, improve your diet or give up a habit, support can make the difference between success and lapsing into old ways. Choose a support link, based on what you’re focusing on:

https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking

https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/get-active

https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/lose-weight

Get moving in 2025! The new year is the ideal time to start a new, active lifestyle and the NHS’s ‘Couch to 5k’ is a running plan for everyone, even if you’ve never run before! Discover more here: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/get-running-with-couch-to-5k/

Walk Your Dog Month

Whatever the weather, your dog needs exercise, and getting out every day for ‘Walk Your Dog Month’ is a great way to start the new year! Share your favourite walks with us in the comments.

Did you know that walking your dog is great for both of you – for your health, joints and mental wellbeing. Dust off those walking boots, put on a coat and get out with your four-legged friend this January.
https://www.animalfriends.co.uk/dog…and-safety/why-walking-your-dog-is-important/

Veganuary

Veganuary is an annual campaign to try eating a plant-based diet for the month of January! Don’t know where to start? You can find lots of recipes and guides here: https://veganuary.com/eating-guides/

Veganuary has inspired and supported millions of people to try vegan food since 2014. Will you take on the challenge in 2025?
https://veganuary.com/en-us/

Dry January

This year, Dry January has introduced a new app to help keep you on track throughout the month! Download it here:
https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january

If you’re thinking about a month without alcohol but aren’t sure what to expect, then read on! Over the first few weeks, you’ll find your energy levels increase, you sleep better, your memory improves and you may lose weight. Find out how to get started with Dry January here:
https://alcoholchange.org.uk/blog/benefits-of-dry-january-and-when-you-can-expect-to-see-them

Love Your Liver Month

January is Love Your Liver Month! Hosted by the British Liver Trust, the campaign is devoted to liver health awareness and helping people understand how to keep their liver healthy. https://britishlivertrust.org.uk/information-and-support/love-your-liver/

Did you know that 90% of liver disease is preventable? Taking steps towards a healthier lifestyle can help to avoid damage to your liver. Show your liver some love by making a pledge to do something healthy this January. https://britishlivertrust.org.uk/love-your-liver-month/

Cold weather challenges

If you’re finding it a struggle to afford to heat your home this winter, discover where your nearest Warm Hub is for a cosy place to warm up:
https://www.warmwelcome.uk/find-a-space

Warm up this winter and make friends at the same time! Warm Welcome Spaces are inclusive, heated, offer hot drinks and are free to visit. Find your local Warm Space here: https://www.warmwelcome.uk/find-a-space