Come have a catch-up with me and see what I've been up to in the last couple of weeks... Hey everyone! Phoebe here, and I wanted to share with you all, the incredible weeks I've had as a content creator apprentice. It's been non-stop action and creativity! First off, we wrapped up the Joy in Jan campaign, and I was thrilled to hand out all the booklets. But that was just the beginning! I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Gill at Peterloo to film some important smear test videos. We posted them on our TikTok and Instagram, providing an example of how a smear test goes and even did a Q&A. It was such a great way to spread awareness! Next, I started working on an event booklet for Primary Care Day in March. I also designed a fantastic social prescribing link worker flyer. And let me tell you, attending the Juice Academy was an absolute blast. I learned so much about using Premier Pro, and I'm excited to apply those skills to our future projects. Speaking of projects, I filmed a TikTok showcasing what you can find in our Primary Care Academy bag. It's a must-watch, trust me! And I didn't stop there. I also created a chaperone training flyer for an upcoming event in March. In terms of editing, I downloaded Premier Pro and used it to enhance our Peterloo videos. I added an introduction to the video about our organisation, making it even more impactful. And let's not forget about highlighting diversity within the Rochdale Health Alliance. It's such an important topic, and I'm glad we're spreading awareness about it. But wait, there's more! I attended a job fair with Ruth, where we created some awesome content and shared it on our Instagram and TikTok. We had a lot of people who were interested in working within Primary Care. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with others and showcase what we do. Last but not least, I created a job advertisement and shared it on our social media channels. I also scheduled some exciting content for the upcoming week and designed a flyer and leaflet for our next event in March for Primary Care Day, so keep an eye out. Also, of course, I made sure to keep sharing those Peterloo videos because they're so impactful. Phew! What a couple of weeks it has been. As a content creator apprentice, I'm constantly learning, creating, and making a difference. I can't wait to see what the future holds. Stay tuned for more updates! Until next time, Phoebe

Help us spread awareness this week... Let's talk about Eating Disorder Awareness in 2024! Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect people of all ages. It's important to raise awareness and provide support for those who are struggling. Today we are going to discuss the signs and symptoms of eating disorders, the impact they have on individuals and their loved ones, and the resources available for treatment and recovery. Signs of an eating disorder can vary depending on the specific type, but here are some common signs to look out for: 1. Drastic changes in weight, either gaining or losing a significant amount. 2. Obsession with body shape, weight, or appearance. 3. Restrictive eating habits, such as avoiding certain foods or food groups. 4. Excessive exercise or compulsive movement to burn calories. 5. Preoccupation with food, calories, and dieting. 6. Avoidance of social situations involving food. 7. Distorted body image or dissatisfaction with one's body. 8. Mood swings, irritability, or withdrawal from social activities. 9. Physical symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or fainting. 10. Development of rituals or strict rules around eating. It's important to remember that everyone's experience with eating disorders is unique, and not all signs may be present. If you or someone you know is displaying these signs, it's crucial to seek professional help and support. Coping with an eating disorder can be challenging, but there are strategies that can help. Here are a few tips: 1. Reach out for support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist who can provide understanding and guidance. 2. Seek professional help: Connect with a healthcare professional who specializes in eating disorders. They can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. 3. Build a support network: Join a support group or online community where you can share experiences and receive encouragement from others who have gone through similar struggles. 4. Practice self-care: Focus on self-care activities that promote physical and emotional well-being, such as engaging in hobbies, practicing relaxation techniques, and getting enough sleep. 5. Challenge negative thoughts: Work on identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs about food, body image, and self-worth. Replace them with positive and realistic affirmations. 6. Establish a balanced approach to food: Work with a registered dietitian to develop a balanced meal plan that meets your nutritional needs and promotes a healthy relationship with food. 7. Engage in enjoyable activities: Find activities that bring you joy and help distract you from negative thoughts or urges related to your eating disorder. Remember, recovery is a journey, and it's important to be patient and kind to yourself along the way. You don't have to face it alone. There is support available to help you through this. https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/eating-problems/causes-of-eating-problems/ https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/get-help-for-myself/i-need-support-now/helplines/ What impact can it have on you? Having an eating disorder can have a significant impact on various aspects of a person's life. It can affect their physical health, emotional well-being, and relationships. Here are some ways an eating disorder can affect someone: 1. Physical health: Eating disorders can lead to serious physical health complications. Depending on the type of eating disorder, it can result in weight loss or gain, malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and a weakened immune system. 2. Emotional well-being: Eating disorders often involve distorted body image and intense preoccupation with food, weight, and shape. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression. The constant focus on food and body can also impact self-esteem and overall emotional well-being. 3. Social and interpersonal relationships: Eating disorders can strain relationships with family, friends, and partners. The secrecy, isolation, and preoccupation with food and body image can make it challenging to engage in social activities or maintain healthy connections with others. 4. Academic and work performance: The physical and emotional effects of an eating disorder can impact concentration, energy levels, and overall performance in academic or work settings. It may be difficult to focus and meet responsibilities effectively. 5. Quality of life: Living with an eating disorder can significantly impact a person's overall quality of life. It can limit participation in enjoyable activities, create a constant state of distress, and lead to a sense of loss of control. What are the causes? There isn't a single cause for eating disorders, as they are complex conditions influenced by a combination of factors. Some potential factors that can contribute to the development of eating disorders include: 1. Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing an eating disorder, as certain individuals may be more susceptible than others. 2. Psychological factors: Psychological factors such as low self-esteem, perfectionism, body dissatisfaction, and a tendency towards obsessive or compulsive behaviours can contribute to the development of eating disorders. 3. Sociocultural influences: Societal pressures, cultural ideals of beauty, and media portrayals of thinness can play a role in the development of eating disorders, particularly in individuals who are more susceptible to these influences. 4. Environmental factors: Traumatic life events, such as abuse, bullying, or significant life changes, can contribute to the development of eating disorders in some individuals. 5. Family dynamics: Family factors, such as a history of eating disorders, dysfunctional family relationships, or a focus on appearance and weight, can contribute to the development of eating disorders. It's important to note that these factors can interact and influence each other, and not everyone who experiences these factors will develop an eating disorder. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it's essential to seek professional help from healthcare providers who specialize in eating disorder treatment. How to support someone with an eating disorder... To support someone with an eating disorder, it's important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Here are some ways you can provide support: 1. Educate yourself: Learn about eating disorders to better understand what the person is going through. This will help you offer informed support and avoid making judgmental or unhelpful comments. 2. Be a good listener: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for the person to express their feelings and concerns. Let them know that you are there to listen and support them, without trying to fix or solve their problems. 3. Avoid commenting on their appearance: Focus on their qualities, strengths, and achievements rather than their physical appearance or weight. This can help shift the focus away from body image concerns. 4. Encourage professional help: Suggest that they seek professional help from a therapist, counsellor, or healthcare provider who specializes in eating disorders. Offer to help them find resources or accompany them to appointments if they're comfortable with that. 5. Offer support with meals: If appropriate and with their consent, offer to cook or eat meals together. This can provide a supportive environment and help normalize eating behaviours. 6. Be patient and understanding: Recovery from an eating disorder takes time, and setbacks can happen. Be patient, supportive, and understanding throughout the process. 7. Avoid enabling behaviours: While it's important to be supportive, it's also crucial to avoid enabling disordered eating behaviours. Encourage healthy coping mechanisms and discourage harmful behaviours. Remember, supporting someone with an eating disorder can be challenging, so it's important to take care of your own well-being too. If you're unsure about how to help, encourage them to seek professional guidance.

Healthwatch in Greater Manchester are aware that there has been an increased demand for child and adolescent mental health services to assess and treat young people with emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties. Healthwatch in Greater Manchester understand through patient experiences, shared with our local offices, that this uplift in demand has impacted waiting times for children and young people to receive initial assessment by an NHS professional. To understand the impact of this issue, Healthwatch in Greater Manchester have launched a research project to obtain the experiences of parents, carers and young people who have accessed, or a trying to access child and adolescent mental health services. This research will also review experiences from health and care professionals who are faced with pressures of the increasing numbers of children and young people who seek their help whilst they continue to provide the highest quality of care. Heather Etheridge, Healthwatch in Greater Manchester, Independent Chair said: “Children and families having access to support, at the time they need it, is so important to us at Healthwatch. We want to ensure their experience and voice is heard across the whole of Greater Manchester (GM) and this joint project will allow us to do this.” The findings of this research will be made available to the public and will used to inform NHS decision-makers to support system wide learning. To share your experience, please follow the links below: Parents/Carers: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/04XCJG/ Children and young people: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/5AOYF6/ Professionals: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/JO28WR/ About Local Healthwatch Healthwatch Rochdale is the independent consumer champion for health and social care, representing the patient and public's voice in Rochdale. It helps to shape and improve local health and social care for local people and their communities. Healthwatch Rochdale is part of the Healthwatch national network, established by the Government to ensure local patients and users have a greater input to shaping and designing local services. To find out more go to www.healthwatchrochdale.org.uk About Healthwatch England Healthwatch England is the independent consumer champion for health and social care in England. The organisation has independent statutory powers, as stated in the Health and Social Care Act 2012, to ensure the consumer’s voice is heard and best practice is delivered in health and social care nationally. Healthwatch is also focused on providing leadership, guidance and support to the development of the Healthwatch network. To find out more please go to www.healthwatch.co.uk About Healthwatch in Greater Manchester: Healthwatch is a local and national health and social care champion, established and funded in each local authority area in England. There are 10 local Healthwatch in Greater Manchester who have come together to work as a network called Healthwatch in Greater Manchester.

Our next SBWA for Admin/Receptionist will start on 5th February 2024 in Bury. Register with Rochdale Training and take the first step to a new career in Primary Care! Information session: 31st January; 10:00am in Bury Town Centre Start Date with Rochdale Training: 5th February 2024, in Bury Town Centre (3 days per week) APPLY NOW! Contact the recruitment team on 01706 631417 or recruitment@rochdaletraining.co.uk For more information call 01706 631417 More information can be found here:

8 different ways owning a plant benefits you... 1. Reduce Stress Plants have a remarkable ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Their presence alone can create a calming and soothing environment, helping to lower our stress levels. Taking care of plants can also be a mindful and therapeutic activity. It allows us to focus on the present moment, providing a sense of purpose and tranquillity. It is also known that plants help with our physical health by reducing our blood pressure and reducing fatigue and headaches by 20-25 per cent in one study. It has also been known that patients in hospital rooms with plants reported decreased post-operative pain. So, having plants around can be a wonderful natural remedy to help us unwind and find peace amidst our busy lives. 2. Plants Reduce Sound pollution Sound pollution, also known as noise pollution, refers to the excessive or disturbing noise that can have negative effects on our physical and mental well-being. It is caused by various sources such as traffic, construction, industrial activities, loud music, and even everyday activities. Sound pollution can lead to increased stress levels, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and even hearing loss in extreme cases. It can disrupt our daily lives and affect our overall quality of life. That's why plants can be great allies in reducing sound pollution. They act as natural sound barriers, absorbing and deflecting sound waves with their leaves and branches. This helps to dampen and muffle noise, creating a quieter environment. Whether it's the rustling of leaves or the thickness of their foliage, plants can help to create a more peaceful and serene atmosphere, making background noise less intrusive and more manageable. So, having plants around can bring a sense of calm and tranquillity to your surroundings while reducing the impact of sound pollution. 3. Increased Productivity It is a known fact that plants can have a positive impact on productivity in various ways. First, we have to take care of our plants by watering them and ensuring they are in the right environment they become our responsibility. They create a visually pleasing and calming environment that can help reduce stress and improve focus. When we feel more relaxed and at ease, we can work more efficiently and effectively. Additionally, plants can improve air quality by releasing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide, providing us with fresh and clean air to breathe. This can enhance our cognitive function and mental clarity, allowing us to stay alert and focused on our tasks. Lastly, the presence of plants in the workplace or study area can boost our mood and overall well-being, leading to increased motivation and productivity. So, incorporating plants into our surroundings can be a simple yet effective way to enhance productivity. 4. Better air quality Plants are amazing when it comes to improving air quality. They act as natural air purifiers by absorbing harmful gases and toxins while releasing fresh oxygen into the environment. Through a process called photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping to create a healthier and cleaner atmosphere. Additionally, plants can remove pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air, which are commonly found in indoor spaces. So, having plants around can significantly improve the air quality in your home or office, making it a more refreshing and pleasant place to be. 5. House plants improve sleep Having house plants in your bedroom can actually improve your sleep! Plants that help you sleep can be split into two categories, those that give off a pleasing or relaxing scent to help you sleep such as lavender, and those that purify the air and increase oxygen levels to improve overall health and sleep quality. They also release moisture, increasing humidity and reducing dryness, which can prevent discomfort like dry throat or skin. Furthermore, the presence of plants can create a calming and soothing atmosphere, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. This can help you unwind and prepare your mind and body for a restful night's sleep. So, consider adding some house plants to your bedroom for a more peaceful and rejuvenating sleep experience. 6. House plants improve mental health Plants are incredible for our mental health. They have a calming and soothing effect on our minds, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression. The presence of plants can create a sense of tranquillity and connection with nature, which can boost our mood and overall well-being. Taking care of plants can also be a therapeutic activity, allowing us to practice mindfulness and find joy in nurturing living things. So, having plants around can be a natural and beneficial way to support our mental health and create a positive environment. A survey of 1,000 people in the UK, conducted by Censuswide, found that since the pandemic: over 7 million say their mental health has benefitted from taking up gardening for the first time; over 3 million say their mental health has benefitted from moving out of an urban area to get access to outdoor space or a garden and; over 7 million say their mental health has benefitted from connecting with people outdoors, for example by speaking to their neighbours over the fence. Overall, nearly two-thirds of UK adults (63%) say spending time gardening or in nature helps their mental health, with respondents saying it makes them feel less stressed and that they benefit from taking in the sights, colours and smells of the outdoors. But it’s not just those with gardens who reap the rewards, 43% said looking after houseplants or growing food or plants in window boxes also boosted wellbeing. 7. Better our emotional and mental health Plants are like little mood boosters. They have a way of lifting our spirits and improving our emotional well-being. Just being around plants can make us feel more calm, relaxed, and connected to nature. They can help reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and even sadness. Taking care of plants can give us a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which can boost our self-esteem and overall mental health. Plus, their vibrant colours and beautiful blooms can bring joy and happiness to our surroundings. So, having plants around is like having a natural therapist who adds positivity and happiness to our lives. 8. House plants have medical benefits House plants can have some amazing medical benefits. They can help purify the air by removing toxins and releasing oxygen, which can improve respiratory health and reduce symptoms related to allergies and asthma. Some plants, like aloe vera, have healing properties and can be used to treat minor burns and cuts. Plants also have a calming effect on our minds, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Some herbal plants can help with digestion such as Mint, mint may help tamp down bloating, gas, and other problems after you eat. Common varieties you can grow in containers include peppermint and spearmint (essential in mint juleps). Basil, another herb for cooking, also can help calm your stomach. Try steeping the leaves in hot water. Additionally, being around plants has been shown to boost mood and overall well-being, which can have a positive impact on our mental health. So, having house plants not only adds beauty to our spaces but also provides us with some natural medical benefits. Become a plant owner today! Look in local stores, online stores or garden centres. #joyinjan Links: https://giraffeflowers.co.uk/collections/plants https://newbankgardencentre.com https://www.happyhouseplants.co.uk

Hey everyone Georgia here, we just realised that some of our h'Elf pictures for the competition have have gone missing. No worries we've found most of them now and the thief has been apprehended. However, because of this oversight, we are going to open the polls again so if you could please vote for your favourite picture that would be great.

Complete the poll below to choose your favourite elf! In order to keep staff morale up in one of our busiest months of the year, we have sent out wellbeing boxes to all our practices in Heywood Middleton and Rochdale which included an H'Elf on a shelf. As you can see our Elf has been getting around our practices and up to no good! Please help us decide which Elf you feel deserves to win our H'Elf on-the-shelf competition. Click on the image to see them all in full size, then choose from the poll below... Please share and leave a comment too!!

Are you in search of a meaningful career in primary care? Do you want to make a difference in your community while pursuing your passion? Look no further because Rochdale Health Alliance is here to open doors to exciting job opportunities and vacancies across Greater Manchester! At Rochdale Health Alliance, we understand the importance of accessible healthcare services, and we are committed to making it easier for you to kickstart your career in primary care. We tirelessly strive to create and provide easy access to as many job opportunities as possible to ensure that everyone has a chance to contribute to the health and well-being of their community. Your Path to Opportunities Starts Here! You may have noticed the QR code on the blog image when clicking to read this; which was also on our social media posts. These QR codes are your direct link to all of our job opportunities waiting for you on our website. Simply scan the code, and you'll be taken straight to the job opportunities section where you can explore the various roles available. Diverse Roles, Diverse Opportunities When you explore our job opportunities, you'll discover a wide array of roles in primary care across Greater Manchester. Whether you're interested in patient care, administration, or a specialised healthcare role, we have options for you. Every role comes with a detailed job description, and contact email for application; plus, most come with salary details and closing dates. Our commitment to diversity and inclusivity extends to our job opportunities as well. We believe in fostering an inclusive work environment, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. We value the unique skills and perspectives that each team member brings to the table, and we believe that diversity makes us stronger. Your Future Awaits At Rochdale Health Alliance, we believe in nurturing talent, providing growth opportunities, and supporting career development. When you join our team, you'll not only find a job but also a pathway to a fulfilling career. We're here to support you every step of the way, from the moment you apply to your continued growth within primary care. Are you ready to take the leap and kickstart your career in primary care? Scan the QR code, explore our job opportunities, and take the first step towards a rewarding journey with Rochdale Health Alliance. Your future in healthcare is just a click away. Plus, experience all the benefits of NHS working including a Blue Light Card - giving you discounts on shopping and eating out! Join us in our mission to provide top-quality healthcare services and make a positive impact on the lives of people in our community. Get started today and embark on a meaningful career that you can be proud of with Rochdale Health Alliance. Your journey begins here!

In a night filled with celebration and recognition, Rochdale Health Alliance emerged as a standout contributor to diversity and inclusion at the Rochdale Diversity Awards. We proudly announced not one but two nominations as finalists, showcasing the impactful work being done by our dedicated teams. Let's delve into the remarkable achievements of the Homeless Alliance Response Team (HART) and the Primary Care Academy (PCA) at this prestigious event. Homeless Alliance Response Team (HART): Champions of Diversity in Health The HART team, a Primary Care Health Service provided by Rochdale Health Alliance for the homeless and transient populations within the borough, stood tall as the proud winners of the 'Diversity in Health Award.' Comprising two Registered Nurses and a dedicated Liaison Officer, the HART team embodies compassion, care, and an unwavering commitment to those in need. The HART service, tailored for the homeless, vulnerable, and transient communities of Rochdale, Heywood, and Middleton, has been making significant strides in enhancing the healthcare landscape for marginalised populations. Building upon the success of the HART Volunteer Service, the team extended its reach by introducing the HART Outreach Service, available every week on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The Diversity in Health Award is not just an accolade; it's a resounding acknowledgement of the team's exceptional efforts in making healthcare accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. Primary Care Academy (PCA): A New Vision for Primary Care Advancement While the Primary Care Academy didn't clinch the top prize, being a finalist at the Rochdale Diversity Awards is a testament to the incredible strides made in advancing primary care. Established in September 2018 under the visionary leadership of Dr. Gill Tonge, a GP in Middleton, PCA is an Institution for the Advancement of Primary Care. Focussed on training, education, workforce development, and research across the entire primary care workforce in HMR, PCA aims to shape, inform, and influence career opportunities and environments. The recognition as a finalist is a feather in the cap for the pre-employment programme, considering its relatively recent inception. The Academy has already carved a niche for itself, creating new opportunities and fostering an environment that empowers those in primary care. The Rochdale Diversity Awards highlight not just the achievements of the moment but also the potential for PCA to continue shaping the future of healthcare in Rochdale and Greater Manchester. Take a look at Rochdale Online’s Press Release that explaining a summary of the great night here: https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/154353/winners-of-the-2023-rochdale-diversity-awards#:~:text=The%20awards%2C%20established%20in%202012,Rchdale%20a%20place%20where%20everyone As Rochdale Health Alliance is proud of its achievements at the Rochdale Diversity Awards, it invites the community to explore the incredible work of both the Homeless Alliance Response Team and the Primary Care Academy. The awards are not just a celebration of past successes but a promise of a more inclusive and diverse healthcare future for Rochdale. For more information on these groundbreaking initiatives, visit the Rochdale Health Alliance website at www.rochdalehealthalliance.co.uk and witness firsthand the commitment to excellence, diversity, and compassion in healthcare.

Pre-employment success! HMR Primary Care Academy, in partnership with Rochdale Training and the NHS, we are celebrating the success of our Sector-Based Work Academy. The course focuses on providing excellent customer service to patients, assisting them with queries or appointments as part of a customer service/administration team within the NHS. We've been helping residents in Rochdale gain skills and secure full-time employment in the NHS. In collaboration with Rochdale Training and Job Centre Plus, the course has supported 30 residents, with 13 successfully moving into full-time employment. It's great to see organizations working together to support the community! “ We choose to run Sector-based Work Academies as it’s a great way to attract new staff to Primary Care and a rewarding career in the NHS. The calibre of learners demonstrates that our selection process for the training is effective. Everyone on our courses has a willingness to learn and it’s a privilege to support people on their career journey. ” Ruth Parton, Pre-employment lead from HMR Primary Care Academy. Thirteen learners who were offered an interview have successfully progressed onto employment with HMR Primary Care Academy in NHS settings around Greater Manchester. As part of the on-the-job training, you will receive the Level 2 Customer Service qualification in collaboration with Rochdale Training. “ I was applying for many jobs online with no success in an interview. I heard about the course at Rochdale training and we were guaranteed an interview I can't thank the teams enough I was successful in getting a placement with RHA. ” Feedback from our pre-employment programme - Cohort This training has been made possible thanks to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, helping everybody gain skills for life and giving people the opportunity to build up sector-specific skills and fast-track to an interview with an employer. What we offer at Primary Care Academy At HMR Primary Care Academy, we offer a range of training programs and opportunities for individuals interested in joining the healthcare industry. Our Sector Based Work Academy, in partnership with the NHS, focuses on preparing individuals to become part of a customer service/administration team within the NHS. We provide training in excellent customer service, assisting patients with queries or appointments, and offering a friendly face to patients. In addition, we offer in-work training, such as the level 2 Customer Service qualification, to further enhance skills and career prospects. Our goal is to support individuals on their career journey and help them thrive in the rewarding field of healthcare. “ If you're considering joining GO FOR IT! You’ve got nothing to lose and lots to gain in training and Pre-employment. ” Feedback from our pre-employment programme - Cohort

Spreading awareness about cervical screening within the South Asian community... Nurse Zoe attended a cervical screening event to give the women who appeared at the event a better understanding of a smear test, as a nurse it makes it better for people to be given the correct information. The event was organized by CanSurviveUK at Deeplish Community Centre. Raising awareness in the South Asian Community about the importance of cervical screenings is crucial for women's health. What is Cervical cancer? Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. It occurs when abnormal cells in the cervix grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumour. If left untreated, these cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body. Cervical cancer is primarily caused by certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection. However, not all women with HPV develop cervical cancer. Other factors that can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer include smoking, a weakened immune system, long-term use of oral contraceptives, and a family history of cervical cancer. In its early stages, cervical cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause. Other symptoms may include pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge. Regular cervical screening, also known as a Pap smear or Pap test, is crucial for detecting abnormal cells in the cervix before they develop into cancer. It involves collecting a small sample of cells from the cervix and examining them under a microscope. If abnormal cells are detected, further tests, such as a colposcopy or biopsy, may be performed to determine if cancer is present. It's important for women to prioritize regular cervical screenings and to discuss any concerns or symptoms with their healthcare provider. Cervical cancer is a preventable and treatable disease, and early detection plays a vital role in improving outcomes. Barriers to cervical screening amongst Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi women aged 25-64 in North Manchester When it comes to cervical screening, several barriers can affect Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi women aged 25-64 in North Manchester. One barrier is the lack of awareness and knowledge about the importance of cervical screening. Many women from these communities may not fully understand the purpose and benefits of getting screened regularly. Language and cultural barriers can also play a role. Some women may face difficulties in understanding the information provided during the screening process due to language differences. Additionally, cultural beliefs and taboos surrounding discussions about reproductive health can make it challenging for women to openly discuss and seek information about cervical screening. Accessibility can be another barrier. Limited access to healthcare services, including convenient appointment times and locations, can make it difficult for women to attend screenings. Factors such as transportation issues, work commitments, and family responsibilities can further hinder their ability to prioritize cervical screening. There may also be misconceptions and fears related to the screening procedure itself. Some women may have concerns about pain, discomfort, or embarrassment during the examination, which can discourage them from attending screenings. To overcome these barriers, it is crucial to raise awareness within these communities about the importance of cervical screening and debunk any misconceptions. Providing information in multiple languages and culturally sensitive materials can help address language and cultural barriers. Improving accessibility by offering flexible appointment options and ensuring that healthcare facilities are easily accessible can also make a difference. It's important to work collaboratively with community leaders, healthcare providers, and support organizations to develop targeted outreach programs that address the specific needs and concerns of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi women in North Manchester. By addressing these barriers, we can strive to improve cervical screening rates and promote better reproductive health outcomes for these communities. How do I get checked? Getting checked for cervical cancer is an essential part of maintaining your reproductive health. The main method for checking for cervical cancer is through a procedure called a smear. Here's what you can expect during the process: 1. Schedule an appointment: Reach out to your healthcare provider to schedule a smear test. They will guide you on when it's best to have the test done based on your age and medical history. 2. Preparation: Before the test, your healthcare provider may advise you to avoid using tampons, vaginal creams, medications, or douching for at least 48 hours. It's also best to schedule the test when you are not menstruating. 3. The procedure: During the smear test, you will lie on an examination table, and your healthcare provider will gently insert a speculum into your vagina to hold it open. They will then use a small brush or spatula to collect a sample of cells from your cervix. It's normal to feel some pressure or discomfort, but it should not be painful. 4. Results: The collected sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. You will typically receive the results within a few weeks. If any abnormal cells are detected, your healthcare provider will discuss the next steps with you. Remember, regular smear tests are crucial for early detection of any abnormal changes in the cervix. It's generally recommended that women begin getting Pap smears around the age of 21 and continue every few years, as advised by their healthcare provider. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedure, it's always best to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide personalised guidance and address any specific concerns you may have. Taking care of your reproductive health is important, and regular cervical screenings are a proactive step in doing so! Remember! Getting a smear test is a harmless procedure. It's a routine screening test that helps detect any abnormal changes in the cells of your cervix. Identifying these changes early on, can prevent the development of cervical cancer or catch it in its early stages when it's highly treatable. The procedure itself may cause some minor discomfort or pressure, but it should not be painful. Remember, it's always important to prioritize your reproductive health and stay proactive with regular screenings. If you have any specific concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They are there to support and guide you through the process!

Learn about our Nurse Forums... What are the nurse forums? The nurse forums at Rochdale Health Alliance are platforms where nurses come together to discuss various healthcare topics, share experiences, and learn from one another. These forums provide a space for networking, professional development, and collaboration among nurses in Rochdale. It's a great way for nurses to stay connected and up-to-date with the latest trends and practices in the healthcare field. If you're a nurse, participating in these forums can be a fantastic opportunity to engage with fellow healthcare professionals and enhance your knowledge. What are the learning opportunities? The nurse forums at Rochdale Health Alliance offer various learning opportunities for nurses. They often organise workshops, seminars and training sessions on different healthcare topics. these events provide a chance to expand your knowledge, gain skills and stay updated with the latest advancements in the field. Additionally, nurses can engage in discussions, ask questions and share experiences with their peers, fostering a collaborative learning environment. it's a fabulous way to continuously grow and enhance your professional development as a nurse. Nurse forums can also serve as a platform for job opportunities and career development. Members often share information about permanent and temporary open positions in various healthcare settings. On our last visit to Milnrow Village Practice, we were joined by Marie Kissack and the team of heart failure specialist nurses, and Matthew Bailie who specialised in BOC Cardiac rehab. We hosted a session to educate other nurses in these areas and let me tell you, it was packed with valuable information and insights. Marie and Matthew did an amazing job sharing their expertise and helping to enhance the knowledge and skills of fellow nurses. Our nurse forums at Rochdale Health Alliance offer an incredible platform for nurses to connect, share experiences, and gain valuable insights. It's a space where you can engage with other nurses, learn from their expertise, and stay updated on the latest developments in the nursing field. These forums provide a supportive community where you can network, collaborate, and grow both personally and professionally. It's an amazing opportunity to expand your knowledge, build relationships, and make a positive impact in the nursing community. If you are interested in nursing visit: https://www.rochdalehealthalliance.co.uk/nursingnews