Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Stonefield Surgery... Stonefield Surgery has done an incredible job, and they deserve a big congratulations for winning the competition. They actively supported the NHS local breast screening campaign and even won a competition for the best display. Naomi Duff, who is a Cancer Screening Improvement Lead from the Bolton, Bury & Rochdale Breast Screening Programme, visited the surgery on November 22nd to reward the Practice Manager, Jo Lees, with a certificate and some chocolates. Stonefield Surgery made a significant difference by supporting breast cancer awareness and stepping up for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Stonefield Surgery has gone above and beyond to raise awareness about breast cancer and screening, by creating a poster specifically geared towards men, even though breast cancer in men is rare. The surgery has always made efforts to promote breast cancer awareness, but due to COVID, the uptake has decreased. They hope that this new initiative will encourage more patients to go for screenings. The team at Stonefield Surgery is doing an incredible job in promoting early detection, which can help save lives. About Breast Cancer Breast cancer is a topic that deserves attention. It's a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. Early detection through regular breast screenings and self-exams is crucial for successful treatment. It's important to spread awareness about the importance of screenings and support those affected by breast cancer. Around 55,200 people are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK each year. That is around 150 people a day. 1 in 8 women in the UK develop breast cancer during their lifetime. 1 in 870 men develop it. Most of the women who get breast cancer have had their menopause, but about 2 out of every 10 (20%) are under 50 years old. Breast cancer risk can be affected by age, family history and lifestyle factors such as obesity and smoking. Why should I be screened? Breast screening is a crucial part of early detection of breast cancer. It involves a mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast. Regular screening can help detect any abnormalities or changes in the breast tissue, even before any symptoms are present. It's recommended that women aged 50-74 have a mammogram every two years. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best screening plan for you based on your individual risk factors. Remember, early detection saves lives! About the screening process... 1. Make an appointment: Reach out to your healthcare provider or a local screening centre to schedule your mammogram. 2. Preparation: On the day of your appointment, avoid using deodorant, lotion, or powder on your chest area, as they can interfere with the mammogram results. 3. Arrive at the screening centre: When you arrive, you'll be asked to fill out some paperwork and provide any necessary information. 4. The mammogram: During the mammogram, you'll be asked to undress from the waist up and put on a gown. The technician will position your breast on a special X-ray machine, and a compression paddle will be used to flatten the breast temporarily. This may cause some discomfort, but it only lasts for a few seconds. 5. Image capture: The X-ray machine will take images of your breast from different angles. It's important to stay still and follow the technician's instructions. 6. Results: After the mammogram, the images will be reviewed by a radiologist. You'll receive the results within a few weeks. If there are any concerns or abnormalities, further tests may be recommended. If you are unsure about this screening procedure and would like to discuss it, they are holding a series of ‘breast screening information clinics’ at the surgery and would like to invite you to pop in for a chat. This 10-minute consultation will address any concerns you have and will fully explain what the test involves. To book a ‘breast screening information clinic, please contact the surgery and request an appointment. Telephone: 01706 646234 Email: stonefieldstreetsurgery@nhs.net Address: Stonefield Street Surgery, 21 Stonefield Street, Milnrow, OL16 4JQ Or you can pop into the surgery and speak to a care coordinator/receptionist about booking an appointment. Remember, their screenings are due in February 2024, so if you haven't been booked in or invited for a screening yet don't worry.

Learn about what I learned on my visit to Petrus and Redfern's house... On the visit with the HART nurses, we visited 'Redfearn house' in Rochdale offering the residents in Redfern snacks, drinks and fruits which they enjoyed a lot! They also attended this session to socialise, to get health advice and to have a Hepatitis C test, as they are in a more vulnerable position than others. The nurses suggested to them that they should take the test for safety reasons and explained that if the Hepatitis C test is positive and not treated it can escalate and become extremely harmful and lead to liver cancer. Everyone agreed to take the test as they care about their health and if led to successfully proceed with the test they win a voucher. It was an enjoyable experience watching and seeing how genuinely caring the nurses are with the residents and even the residents easily participating in the session. What is the HART team? HART stands for Homeless Alliance Response Team. They provide support and assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness in Rochdale. They work to connect people with resources, provide outreach services, and help them access housing and support networks. It's an important initiative to address homelessness in the community. HART has now created and collaborated with 'Triangle of Care'. The Triangle of Care is an alliance between the service user, staff member and carer. Better recognition that carers are key partners in mental health through using Triangle of Care is an investment in safety, quality and continuity of care at a relatively low financial cost. The HART team work with Petrus. The Petrus Community is a registered charity providing residential and day support services for people in housing need throughout the Borough of Rochdale (including Heywood and Middleton), Rossendale and Oldham. Petrus Housing aims to: To accommodate people who are homeless or would otherwise be at risk of homelessness and who need and accept support in their transition to independent living. To be accountable to stakeholders and funders, including the local authority and referral agents, and ensure that our supported housing is provided for people in the greatest need. To make optimum use of the property and minimise void losses, allowing lettings may be deferred to allocate rooms appropriately taking into account the specific needs of service users. To ensure equality of opportunity in the selection and allocation of accommodation. To assist the local housing authority in their duties towards homeless vulnerable people. Where did we visit with the HART Nurse? With the HART Nurse (Elaine) we visited Redfern House in Rochdale, which is part of the stepping-stone projects. The service consists of 16 self-contained fully furnished flats in a grouped accommodation setting at Redfearn House with communal facilities including a garden, laundry, trainer kitchen, meeting room, and access to IT. We also offer another 15 independent properties dispersed within the community. What Support do they get? Support that can be offered, includes: Advice on housing rights and responsibilities. Support to develop the skills and capacity needed to meet their obligations as a tenant. Support accessing specialist agencies e.g. mental health and substance misuse issues. Support in applying for benefits, grants and loans (including help with forms). Support to assist individuals with budgeting, paying bills managing debts etc. Joint Working with specialist support services/agencies. Support in accessing employment, voluntary work opportunities, training and education. Help build self-confidence. Support to develop independent living skills, including in a shared environment. Help to access and maintain suitable long-term accommodation when the client is ready to move on. It's important to know that there is help out there and if you are struggling or know someone who is whether that is homeless or struggling with mental health please contact us. If you want to keep up to date with the HART Nurse role and The Triangle of Care keep a look out for the latest blogs as I'll be explaining all about it.

We are running an introduction to Adult Social Care Sector Based Work Academy starting on 20th November 2023. Come along to our information session on 15th November 2023 at 13:30 to find out more! Book directly with Rochdale Training: recruitment@rochdaletraining.co.uk; phone 01706 631 417 Find more information here:

Our next SBWA for Admin/Receptionist will start with an information session on 15th November 2023 and training starting on 20th November 2023. Register with Rochdale Training and take the first step to a new career in Primary Care! Information Session: Wednesday 15th November 2023 (9:30am to 12:00 noon) (please confirm attendance via email to Rochdale Training.) Start Date with Rochdale Training: 20th November 2023 (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:

Our next SBWA for Admin/Receptionist will start with an information session on 15th November 2023 and training starting on 20th November 2023. Register with Rochdale Training and take the first step to a new career in Primary Care! Information Session: Wednesday 15th November 2023 (9:30am to 12:00 noon) (please confirm attendance via email to Rochdale Training.) Start Date with Rochdale Training: 20th November 2023 (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:

Here are some of the most prevalent mental health disorders that affect men. Men are less likely than women to be diagnosed with any of the most common mental health disorders, and those who have received a diagnosis are less likely to seek treatment—yet nearly four times as many men as women die by suicide. Why don’t men receive the diagnoses and care they need to heal from common male mental health disorders? That's a complex issue, and there isn't a simple answer. However, there are a few reasons why men may not receive the diagnosis and care they need for common mental disorders. Societal expectations and gender norms can play a role, as men are often encouraged to be strong and stoic, which can make it difficult for them to seek help or express their emotions. Additionally, there may be a lack of awareness or understanding about men's mental health issues among healthcare professionals. It's essential to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and encourage open conversations about mental health for everyone, regardless of gender. If you or someone you know is struggling, contacting a healthcare professional for support is always a good idea. Common Male Mental Health Symptoms Men don’t tend to talk openly about their emotional struggles, such as feeling sad, worthless, or hopeless. Instead, male mental health conditions often manifest in symptoms such as: Aggression and violence High-risk activities Substance abuse Physical issues, such as chronic headaches or stomachaches Feelings of restlessness and difficulty focusing Appetite and weight changes Fatigue Obsessive thinking. As a result, mental health issues in young men often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, meaning far more men are suffering than the statistics reflect. Below are the five of the most common male mental health disorders. Depression Male depression is one of the most significant mental health issues in men. CDC statistics show that 5.5 per cent of young adult males suffer from depression. That’s about half the number of women of the same age. But while male depression is diagnosed less often than in women, many young men have depression that their doctor does not identify because their symptoms are less typical of major depressive disorder. Furthermore, while men are less likely to receive depression diagnoses and also attempt suicide at lower rates than women, they are 3.7 times more likely to die by suicide, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. That’s because men who attempt suicide use more deadly methods, particularly firearms. In addition, since young adults attempt suicide at higher rates than any other age group, young men are at extremely high risk. known fact 49% of men feel more depressed than they are willing to admit to the people around them, and 45% believe mental health issues can be solved on their own, according to a Today Show survey of 1,000 men. Anxiety Anxiety disorders are one of the most common male mental health disorders. Types of anxiety disorders in men include: Panic disorder Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Social anxiety Phobias. While women are about twice as likely to struggle with general anxiety disorder and panic disorder, rates of social anxiety and OCD are roughly equal between men and women. Also, anxiety in men often leads to a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with substance use disorder and ADHD. Find out more about anxiety disorders and treatment in young adults. Substance Use Disorder Data from the most recent Monitoring the Future survey of young adults shows that, in general, young men are more likely than women to abuse drugs, including marijuana, hallucinogens, and prescription painkillers. Plus, men are almost two times more likely to binge drink than women and have consistently higher rates of alcohol-related deaths and hospitalisations. Because problematic drinking and other male substance abuse is seen as socially acceptable for young men and even considered “masculine,” it’s less frequently recognised as a symptom of a male mental health condition. These attitudes put young males at higher risk for substance abuse, including becoming dependent on multiple substances, according to a study conducted by Johns Hopkins University, the University of Minnesota, and the Bloomberg School of Public Health. Consequently, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) statistics show that substance use disorder is among the most common male mental health disorders, with more men in treatment than women. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) PTSD is another of the most common mental health issues in men. Moreover, PTSD isn’t just something military veterans suffer from. Approximately 60 per cent of men experience at least one trauma in their lives, typically related to accidents, physical assault, combat, or witnessing death or injury. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, more than two-thirds of adolescents have experienced a traumatic event, and those experiences can have long-term effects on young adult mental health. In the weeks, months, and even years following an experience of trauma, young men can experience PTSD symptoms that interfere with their daily life and functioning. While PTSD diagnoses are again more common in women than men, experts suspect that this may also be because of men’s conditioning to suffer in silence or to disregard physical or behavioural issues that may be symptoms of PTSD or another common male mental health disorder. Learn more about the symptoms and causes of PTSD in young adults. Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is characterised by extreme ups and downs in mood and activity levels. Bipolar disorder symptoms in males typically manifest between the ages of 15 and 24 and affect about 2.6 per cent of the US population. While bipolar in young men isn’t as common as other male mental health conditions, the vast majority of bipolar disorder cases—83 per cent—are classified as severe, according to the National Alliance for Mental Illness. As with other common mental health disorders, bipolar disorder is underdiagnosed in young men. Many of the symptoms of bipolar in men can be written off as “normal” immature male behaviour. For example, overconfidence and reckless behaviour are signs of the manic phase of bipolar, while irritability and social withdrawal are symptoms of the depressive phase. Research shows that men tend to experience less frequent cycling between the phases, making bipolar disorder in males harder to recognise. Learn the symptoms of bipolar disorder in young adults. Treatment for Common Male Mental Health Disorders In summary, young men are struggling to get the care they need. Men often don’t seek help on their own, and because their symptoms show up in less obvious ways, male mental health issues are underdiagnosed. That leaves men with common mental health disorders feeling isolated and alone—and ultimately puts them at high risk of suicide attempts. Contact your GP today to get started on the path to healing.

Celebrating Halloween with RHA Staff... Thank you to all the staff involved in our Halloween celebration lunch! I hope you enjoyed it and filled your bellies... I can't wait to see what our Christmas buffet is like!

Middleton Primary Care Network Hub... Middleton PCN Hub is an amazing place where you can find a wide range of services and support related to primary care. It's a hub that brings together healthcare professionals, clinics, and community resources all under one roof. Whether you need medical advice, access to healthcare services or information on health and wellness, Middleton PCN Hub is the go-to place. They have a dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about providing high-quality care to the community. It's a great resource for anyone looking to improve their health and well-being. What is the Hub? The Hub is a new NHS venue that is a collaboration of 7 GP surgeries from Middleton in partnership with several other providers including Rochdale Borough Public Health, Rochdale Health Alliance and HMR Primary Care Academy who have come together to provide a new venue to access health care services. Is it a new GP surgery? It's a common mistake when people suggest it's a new GP surgery when it comes to the Middleton PCN Hub that is why we are here to inform you that no, the Hub is a venue to support existing GP practice services in Middleton and is therefore not a new GP surgery. To access the services at the venue, you would need to be a registered patient from one of the 7 GP surgeries. However, there will be other services, including stop smoking, sexual health, and family planning that can be accessed at the Hub irrespective of which GP surgery you are registered with. Why do we need Middleton Hub? The new Hub will provide an additional venue from which several existing as well as new GP services can be delivered, including evening and weekend GP and nurse appointments. With the location of the Hub, it will be more accessible to the public and provide convenience as well as ease of access to services. How do I book an appointment? This depends on which service you wish to access. Some services can be accessed through your own GP surgery whilst others will be bookable at the front desk at the Hub. Enquire at the Hub reception for more information. What services does Middleton Hub give you? •Blood appointments •Mental Health appointments with Pennine Care employed staff •Social Prescribing links worker appointments •Physiotherapy appointments •Signposting from Care Co-ordinators •Health and Wellbeing Coach appointments •Public Health initiatives – HIV Testing •EA services (date TBC) Who are the 7 GP Services? The Family Practice 133 Bowness Rd, M244EN 0161 643 4459 Peterloo Medical Centre 133-137 Manchester Old Road, M244DZ 0161 643 5005 Durnford Medical Centre 113 Long Street, M246DL 0161 643 2011 Rochdale Road Medical Practice 48a Rochdale Road, M242PU 0161 643 9131 Woodside Medical Centre 247j Wood Street, M245QL 0161 643 9244 Windermere Road Surgery 109-111 Windermere Rd, M245WF 0161 667 6609 Junction Surgery 346 Grimshaw Lane, M242AU 0161 271 3030 Visit the Website to get in touch https://www.middletonshoppingcentre.co.uk/stores/pcn-hub/

One of the most asked questions the HART team is asked: “Can you find me a dentist?” Any form of poor oral hygiene can cause discomfort, be extremely painful and have a major impact on our daily lives consequently, poor access to dental services is having a significant impact on homeless and vulnerable people’s lives. A recent study by Groundswell revealed the extent of oral health problems homeless people are facing, problems with teeth, gums and mouths were widespread and dramatically higher in the homeless, than the general population. This problem is not just in the Rochdale Borough but UK-wide, and it is so frustrating not only to the people who need the dentist but also to professionals who are trying to improve the health and well-being of this cohort of people. Further findings revealed the extent of health inequality experienced by homeless people (Groundswell 2017): 90% of people have had issues with their mouth health since becoming homeless. 30% of homeless people currently experience dental pain. 15% of homeless people have pulled out their own teeth. 27% of participants have used alcohol to help them deal with dental pain and 28% have used drugs. Loss of teeth becomes a factor. 27% have attended A&E when they have dental problems Keeping our mouths and teeth healthy enables us to chew food, speak clearly, shape our faces and allow people to smile with confidence and self-esteem. Unfortunately, due to being homeless and experiencing social exclusion, people are finding it difficult to access treatment. This type of lifestyle and low levels of self-care, smoking, drinking alcohol, drug use, and eating and drinking sugary foods to get through the day all add to tooth decay, and the overall effect on maintaining a healthy mouth. When Mental health is poor, or we find ourselves in a situation where we are homeless, have no money, and family and friends are in the past, it all influences our health and well-being. Caring for our teeth and mouth can be the last thing we think about. I recently visited a man who was being supported in a hostel, he had mental health issues and was prone to self-neglect. All the time he was talking to me, he covered his mouth up and spoke through his hand, he never once smiled. After a few visits, I felt he had gained some trust in me, so I asked, “When was the last time you brushed your teeth?” the reply was 16 years ago! Cleaning a plaque-ridden tooth is difficult. If you don't brush your teeth for a week, you're more likely to develop cavities. There's also a chance that the plaque will begin to irritate your gums, causing them to hurt even more. Fortunately, he had no pain at this time. He agreed to me obtaining a toothbrush and a mild toothpaste, which is still sitting in his bathroom! Each time his support worker as a one-to-one, he mentions his oral care, he just needs time. Hopefully by building trust and knowing people care for him, the day he brushes his teeth will come. Finding an NHS dentist to register with is extremely hard, however, if the person is in pain, you can ring 111, and they will search for a dentist in your area and get you an appointment as soon as possible to help solve the problem. If you are on benefits or an asylum seeker the NHS dentistry is free. TAKING CARE OF YOUR MOUTH. Brush your teeth twice a day Brushing teeth last thing at night is extremely important Try not to rinse your mouth afterwards Floss your teeth daily Visit your dentist regularly to check both your teeth and mouth are healthy. Even if you have no teeth. Cut down on sugary food and drinks. DRUGS, SMOKING and ALCOHOL all have an impact on your mouth. CANNABIS – increases the risk of decay and gum disease. CRACK - causes oral sores increasing the risk of blood-borne infections. COCAINE – can lead to damage to the roof of your mouth and when you rub into your gums this causes decay. HEROIN – causes inflammation of the gums and teeth loss. METHADONE– contains a lot of sugar increasing the risk of tooth decay. Ask for sugar-free at your Pharmacy. Always brush your teeth before and after taking the methadone. It's never too late to make your oral health a priority again, no matter how long you've been without dental care.

At Rochdale Health Alliance, we've delved behind the scenes to bring you the incredible stories of those who shine within our Primary Care Networks, as three members of our creative team visited Peterloo Medical Centre last week, on the latest LTI day. In our latest video series, we introduce you to the unsung heroes of primary care. Meet Social Prescribing Link Workers, Darren and Sultan, who passionately connect patients to the right support and services. Their journeys are filled with inspiration, and they share valuable insights for those eager to make a difference in healthcare. Their vast experience within the industry is obvious, and their knowledge for care and excitement for change really shows. But that's not all! We've also got James, the Office Junior, whose story is fantastic, having previously been on a Kickstart Programme - he has made a career in Primary Care and his passion and empathy really shine. He shares his tips for those who aspire to work within healthcare, specifically Primary Care; and also shares some of the highlights of his working life! We also shine a spotlight on Sue-Ann, a Trainee Nursing Associate whose journey into primary care embodies growth and dedication - she was helped at the beginning of her healthcare journey by Rochdale Health Alliance, and we are proud of both the Nurse, and more importantly, passionate individual that she has become. Her experiences, challenges, and words of advice will inspire anyone considering a career in healthcare. Don't miss these heartwarming and insightful interviews! Stay tuned on our social media platforms for these inspiring stories of resilience, passion, and commitment. Join us in celebrating the unsung heroes of primary care who truly make a difference. 🎥👥

It's Pumpkin season... Most of a pumpkin’s health benefits come from its vitamins and minerals, along with its low sugar and high fibre content. While there aren’t many studies on pumpkin specifically, it’s high in several nutrients that have established health benefits. Pumpkins have some amazing health benefits! They're packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, and E, which can boost your immune system and promote good vision. Pumpkins are also low in calories and high in fibre, making them great for weight management. Plus, they're good for your heart health and digestion too! So next time you enjoy a pumpkin treat, know that you're also giving your body a healthy boost. Pumpkins are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways. Here are a few ideas: 1. Pumpkin soup: A warm and comforting option, perfect for chilly days. 2. Roasted pumpkin: Cut it into cubes, toss with some olive oil, salt, and spices, then roast until tender and caramelized. 3. Pumpkin puree: Use it as a base for pies, cakes, muffins, or smoothies. 4. Pumpkin curry: Add pumpkin chunks to your favourite curry recipe for a delicious twist. 5. Pumpkin pancakes: Mix pumpkin puree into your pancake batter for a fall-inspired breakfast. 6. Pumpkin seeds: Roast the seeds with some salt and spices for a crunchy and nutritious snack. 7. Pumpkin risotto: Incorporate pumpkin into a creamy risotto for a flavorful meal. 8. Pumpkin bread: Bake a loaf of moist, aromatic pumpkin bread for a delightful treat. These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities are endless! For more recipes for your Pumpkin dishes click the links below. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/pumpkin-recipes https://www.health.com/pumpkin-benefits-7724727 https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/267420877

Wow, can you believe we're already in week 6? Time has really flown by! Anyway, we wanted to give you an update. We've finished gathering all the information from the LTI. We are happy to announce that we successfully delivered a session that improved your knowledge on two important topics: Menopause and Sleep. Please see the graphs below; we have some Menopause geniuses!! and Sleep Experts!!! We hope you enjoyed the sessions. For those of you who missed out, you can find the complete presentation on Sleep Hygiene and the new webpage dedicated to Menopause within the Health and Wellbeing section of the website. Menopause Posters Mel has also designed some posters that link with the Menopause page by just scanning the QR code. It would be great if we could get a vote on these posters to see which you guys prefer!!! We can then hopefully distribute these throughout practices. Poster One Poster Two Poster Three Poster Four