A new regional integrated health and social care service working directly in mainstream primary schools supporting children has been launched today (Thursday 18 May). ‘RISE’ (Regional Integrated Support for Education) will enable staff from the health and social care and education sectors to work closely together to help children access learning and enhance their development to reach their full potential.
Let’s deal with dementia together!
‘Let’s unite against dementia’ is the message from health and social care professionals during Dementia Awareness Week 2016 (14-20 May). The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) are working jointly with the Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia NI and Health and Social Care Trusts to promote a culture which ensures people with dementia are supported to live with dignity and without stigma.
Get more active during Walk to School Week
This week (15-19 May) is Walk to School Week and the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone to get more active by leaving the car at home and walking the school run. Statistics show just over three-fifths (61%) of primary school pupils are driven to or from school by car, while less than a third – only 29% – walk. For post primary, 30% of pupils are driven by car and 18% walk.
Home accident prevention showcased at this year’s Balmoral Show
In Northern Ireland in a typical week, two people die as a result of home accidents. In addition to these deaths, there are approximately 17,000 admissions to hospital each year as a result of unintentional injuries. However, accidents can easily be prevented by being aware of the dangers and hazards that are present in the home environment and taking steps to minimise the risks. At this year’s Balmoral Show (10–13 May 2017) the Public Health Agency (PHA) in association with local councils in Northern Ireland are hosting a stand to raise awareness of home accident prevention.
Hospital Passport for people with a learning disability launched
A new Regional Hospital Passport has been launched to help improve the experience of hospital visits for people with a learning disability. The Public Health Agency (PHA), in partnership with the Regional General Hospital Forum for Learning Disabilities, health and social care trusts, and people with a learning disability and their carers, developed the passport folder which holds details about the patient’s likes, dislikes, how best to communicate with them and other helpful information.
Mental Health Awareness Week – Take 5
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging people to use Mental Health Awareness Week (8-14 May) to take time out to think about mental health and steps we can take to improve it. Fiona Teague, Health Improvement Manager with the PHA, said: “We are encouraging people to use Mental Health Awareness Week as an opportunity to think about how they can improve their mental health. We all know that it is important to look after our physical health but it is also really important that we don’t neglect our mental health.