Raising awareness of Mental Health challenges during the festive period

Our mental health is as important as our physical health in our daily lives. The state of our mental health influences everything – from our thoughts, actions and emotions. It can affect our relationships, our work, and even our physical health – but so many of us are uncomfortable talking about it and managing it, […]
Let’s be merry and mindful: raising awareness of increased drug and alcohol intake

The festive season is often a time of joy and celebration, however amongst the merriments, there can, unfortunately, also be an increase in drug and alcohol intake. As healthcare professionals, we are all too familiar with the challenges posed by drug and alcohol misuse. Employers also should have an awareness of the impact that increased […]
STIs: The gift no one wants this festive season

As the festive season nears, increased socialisation, alcohol consumption and lowered inhibitions can often lead to people undertaking more risky behaviours. In particular the importance of safe sex practices during this time can often be overlooked with a lack of awareness and consequences contributing to the increase in unprotected sexual encounters and rise in sexually […]
Recommendations for a universal varicella vaccine programme in the UK

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has proposed the implementation of a universal chickenpox (varicella) vaccination programme within the routine childhood schedule in the UK. They have suggested using a two-dose schedule, using the combined MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and varicella) vaccine administered at 12 and 18 months of age. This recommendation stems […]
Cervical cancer prevention: what more can we do?

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer. In the UK, proactive measures have been implemented to reduce the impact of cervical cancer through cervical screening programmes and the introduction of the national Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme. This has been shown to be a true game-changer, significantly reducing the […]
RSV vaccines: what’s the latest?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that can affect people of all ages. It is particularly serious in infants and the elderly, leading to severe respiratory infections and is a major cause of hospitalisations in these age groups. In June 2023, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommended an immunisation programme […]
AED Training: Restart a heart, why every second counts

Sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention. When someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. While Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is crucial in maintaining blood flow to vital organs, it alone cannot restore abnormal heart rhythm. In such critical situations, having access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and knowing how […]
Boosting Flu Vaccine Uptake

The 2023-24 flu vaccine programme is now well underway, having commenced in schools and for those most at risk alongside the Autumn 2023 COVID-19 booster programme in early September 2023. Flu vaccines play a crucial role in helping to safeguard individuals, communities and in protecting our National Health Service (NHS). Healthcare professionals can all help […]
Sexual health in primary care and community pharmacy: positive developments and the challenges still faced

Sexual health is an important element in the overall physical health and mental health of an individual. Sexual contact can lead to the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) which, if left untreated, can lead to serious health complications. The public need access to advice from health professionals who are knowledgeable about sexual health and […]
Promoting a learning based culture in the workplace

Promoting a learning based culture in healthcare settings is essential in order to meet standards of practice to be able to deliver high quality safe and effective patient care. In a field where evidence based practice is critical, promoting a positive learning based culture helps to develop continuous learning and enables individuals to stay up […]