Community Events November 2024

Engaging Our Community for Health and Wellbeing: Current Initiatives and Resources

At Whitley Road Medical Centre, we’re committed to supporting our community’s health and wellbeing through various initiatives that encourage physical activity, mental wellness, and preventive care. Here’s a roundup of local programs, resources, and events aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and fostering connections within our neighbourhood. Join us in making positive changes, whether through movement, social activities, or health screenings!

Greater Manchester Moving – Supporting Our Community and Staff

Supported by Manchester Integrated Care Board, the Greater Manchester Moving initiative encourages everyone to stay active, both in and out of the workplace. From walking meetings to standing desks, and training for staff, there are many opportunities to get moving. Join us for community challenges, park runs, and local activities through Manchester Active. Outdoor activities not only benefit physical health but also improve mental wellbeing—a message we’re spreading across the community.

Championing Movement for Health – Physical Activity Clinical Champions (PACC) Programme

The PACC Programme led by Jan Sinclair aims to embed movement in healthcare settings by training staff on promoting physical activity effectively. This programme encourages understanding the UK Chief Medical Officer’s guidelines and offers strategies for behavioural changes that can motivate our community to lead active lives.

  • Access resources like the Moving Medicine website and free online training to enhance your approach to physical activity.
  • Contact Jan Sinclair at Jan.sinclair@stockport.nhs.uk for slide decks and additional materials.

Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Updates

Our neighbourhood health initiatives are designed to meet the needs of our diverse community. Here’s what’s happening:

  • Bowel Cancer Screening: Focusing on raising awareness for men aged 60-64, we’re extending information to those aged 52+ for increased screening.
  • Wellbeing Vans: COVID-19 and flu vaccination vans are providing essential vaccinations, blood pressure checks, and wellbeing packs in the community.
  • Stop to Swap: A new smoking cessation program offers individuals the opportunity to swap cigarettes for vapes as a transition to quitting.
  • Blood Pressure Promotion: In collaboration with Afro Cats in Moston, we’re supporting blood pressure monitoring and healthier lifestyles through cultural dance activities.
  • Defibrillator Access: Newton Heath Library and local parks are now equipped with public defibrillators.

Our practices are sending out texts to patients with health reminders and resources—stay tuned for more updates!

Local Resources for Health and Social Support

Care Navigator and Be Well Services

Our Care Navigator service provides links to valuable resources, including the Be Well service. Ask our team for a referral if you’re interested in these services.

AfroCATS

This organization offers classes, workshops, and cultural activities aimed at improving both physical and mental wellbeing, especially for individuals seeking sanctuary. AfroCATS provides weekly classes to reduce blood pressure and promote movement through cultural dance.

  • Follow Afro Cats on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter or reach out to Edel at edel@afrocats.org.uk.

Easy Come, Easy Grow – Community Gardening Project

Easy Come, Easy Grow encourages community involvement in green spaces. With community gardens, recycling workshops, breakfast mornings, litter-picking events, beekeeping, and more, this initiative promotes both physical health and environmental stewardship.

  • Join us on social media: Facebook and Instagram at @eceg_mcr or reach out via eceg_mcr@yahoo.com.

Upcoming Event: Manchester Health Film Festival

Celebrate health awareness through storytelling at the Manchester Health Film Festival! Join us at the Odeon Great Northern on 23rd November 2024, 11:30 am – 6:00 pm for inspiring films that bring focus to health and wellness issues.

For military veterans, additional resources and events are provided by Walking With The Wounded. More information at walkingwiththewounded.org.uk.

Get Involved

We encourage everyone to engage with these programs. For questions or to get involved, speak to our Social Prescribers and Care Navigator Vanessa, who can connect you with local resources and events tailored to your interests and needs. Let’s take steps together toward a healthier, more connected community!

Published on 8 November 2024