Healthwatch Round Up - 12 June 2025
Welcome to this week's Healthwatch Stockport Information Round-up!
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#TeamHealthwatch
This week and in support of National Carer's Week, we supported the Signpost for Carers' celebration by sharing our Advice & Information service and gathering their views of using Primary Care services. We've joined the Learning Disability forum and enjoyed attending the 'Your Voice' Lived experience panel around mental health.
The team will be venturing out to various health and wellbeing events over the coming weeks, so pop by, find out how we can help you and share your experiences of using health and social care services with us. Here's a snap shot:
18 June, Merseyway Shopping Centre. We'll be alongside NHS Greater Manchester, Stockport Council and S.P.A.C.E ADHD Group to listen to your views of ADHD and Primary care services
18 June at the Alma Lodge Hotel: Supporting Annual Stockport Adult Social Care Provider Forum by holding our own Healthwatch stall. This year’s forum will focus on a theme of Wellbeing, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion & Gloriously Ordinary Lives.
19 June (venue tbc): 'The Big Health Day' for people with a Learning Disabilities in Stockport.
We'll share more details soon.
Reminder: Screening Fact Sheets Available
We have been working on a series of screening programme fact sheets and are excited to share that they're available on our website. Our fact sheets are designed to give you quick access to the information you need around different types of screening.
Printable versions of the fact sheets are available. Please contact the team on 0161 974 0753.
Healthwatch Research, Articles & Advice You May Have Missed
As a reminder, please see the latest reports, news, advice and support articles from us and Healthwatch England.
Today's NHS waiting times data shows that the number of people waiting for planned treatment has fallen. According to the NHS, an estimated 6.23 million patients were waiting for treatment at the end of April 2025, down from 6.25 million patients at the end of March 2025.
Government to expand cervical screening access through NHS App
Our response to government's plans for faster emergency care
Patients are being promised better, faster and more appropriate emergency care under government reforms to shorten waiting times in A&E.
What can I do while waiting for an ADHD assessment?
Waiting for an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) assessment can take a long time. What support is available for people while they wait?
Don't forget that we're supporting the current NHS Greater Manchester drive to gather feedback about local ADHD services. Have you had your say? The feedback survey (left click) is open until 17 June. Read more about this feedback campaign in our 'Have Your Say' Section below.
Check out our website for more news, advice and informative articles.
Healthwatch Focus: Primary Care Services
We're continuing a work programme looking at how our Stockport community access Primary Care if they have additional needs. This could be a physical, neurodiverse or mental health need.
We're keen to hear from as many people as possible to ensure we have a good understanding of what goes well and what could be better. Do you have any experiences you can share with us? Get in touch.
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
0161 974 0753
Get Involved: Join our Reading Panel
We're sharing current opportunities to get involved in our work, one of which being our Reading Panel. Reading Panel members voluntarily review materials (posters, leaflets, letters) from us, the NHS, Stockport Council and other services to ensure they’re people friendly and jargon free.
It's essential that residents are given information which is easy to understand, informative and supports their decision making where appropriate. Our Reading Panel's feedback along with our observations enables us to make recommendations to achieve just that!
If you're keen to get involved, contact us:
0161 974 0753
www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/volunteer_enquiry_form/
Somebody's Dad
As it's Men's Health week, we thought to shine a spotlight on Somebody's Dad.
At Somebody's Dad, they provide a free counselling service to men living without their children, dads who've suffered the loss of a child or are unable to see their children through custody issues are able to apply for counselling to help them receive emotional support.
Somebody’s Dad offers six free one-to-one walking therapy sessions for men in Stockport.
These sessions give time, space, and support. No pressure, no judgment.
Email contact@somebodysdad.org if you would like their support.
Announcement: Changes to Cervical Screening
Details from NHS England
This week, NHS England announced that they're updating their cervical screening programme so that people who are eligible are invited every five years instead of every three years.
From July, younger women (aged 25 to 49) who test negative for HPV, meaning they are at very low risk of cervical cancer over the next 10 years, will safely be invited every 5 years rather than every 3, in line with major clinical evidence. This change was made following the cervical screening (sometimes known as a smear test) recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC).
Remember, cancer screening is for people without symptoms. If you notice anything that's not normal for you, don't wait for your screening invite - contact your GP.
Healthwatch Stockport's current Cervical Cancer fact sheet is available above. A new version to reflect changes, will be available from July.
Announcement: Winter Fuel Payment to be Restored
Details from Gov UK
The Government has announced that the Winter Fuel Payment will be restored to all people over State Pension age with an income of £35K per year or less for the Winter of 2025/26.
The payments will be made automatically to households with at least one member over State Pension age by the end of the qualifying week. For the Winter of 2025/26, this is 15-21 September 2025 and means that people born on or before 21 September 1959 will qualify providing their income is £35K per year or less.
Payments will be £200 per household or £300 for households where at least one person is aged 80 or over. Payments will be made to the main claimant who is receiving a means-tested benefit such as Pension Credit.
NHS Urgent Call for O Type Blood Donors!
Details from Give Blood UK
The NHS have called out for donors of blood type O, as levels are running extremely low. O negative is the only blood type that can be used in emergencies when there’s no time to check a patient’s type. Please book now to help the NHS continue providing blood to patients in need.
Book an appointment or register to donate today.
Find out more about blood donation
Prescription Tracking & More in NHS App
Details from the Department of Health and Social Care
Following the news around prescription tracking being added to the NHS app, further upgrades will be taking place over 2025/2025 to help you get care when you need it.
NHS App upgrades coming 2025/26 include appointment reminders, screening invitations and test results, quicker login methods like Face ID and push notifications for important messages
Prescription tracking: Millions can now track their prescriptions, helping to reduce unnecessary calls and visits to pharmacies. Nearly 1,500 high street chemists – including Boots across England – are offering the service.
For non-urgent medical help, contact NHS 111. For life-threatening emergencies, call 999.
Reminder: NHS Roll out ‘Revolutionary’ Blood Test for Cancer Patients
Details from NHS England
Thousands of patients with lung and breast cancer are to benefit from a “revolutionary” blood test on the NHS across England. The new ‘liquid biopsy’ test can help fast-track lung cancer patients to receive targeted therapy up to two weeks earlier, while helping some avoid further tests and treatments including chemotherapy. This "liquid biopsy" is also being expanded to eligible breast cancer patients.
COVID Spring Boosters - Book Before 16 June
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
If you’re eligible for a COVID-19 spring booster, you can book your free vaccination before appointments close on 16 June. Those eligible, include anyone:
- aged 75 or over (including those who will be 75 by 17 June this year)
- aged six months old to 74 years old with a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment
- who lives in a care home for older adults
You can book a vaccination appointment on the NHS website. There are also walk-in appointments available everyday across Greater Manchester. See a full list of local locations.
For help, call the Greater Manchester Care Gateway Team: 0161 947 0770 or 0800 092 4020.
Stay Ahead With Your Diabetes Health Checks
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Did you know that regular health checks are vital in managing diabetes and preventing complications? From blood tests to eye screenings, understanding what to expect can empower you to take control of your health and wellbeing.
Visit the NHS Greater Manchester website
Healthwatch Stockport's current 'Diabetic Eye Screening' fact sheet is available above.
Men's Health Week
Details from NHS Greater Manchester & Answer Cancer
In honour of Men’s Health Week, (9 - 15 June), NHS Greater Manchester is encouraging men and boys across Greater Manchester to take control of their physical and mental health.
The week, aims to raise awareness about preventable health issues that disproportionately affect men, such as heart disease, mental health problems, and prostate cancer and to seek help and support as early as possible.
Visit their website for valuable information and advice at: https://gmintegratedcare.org.uk/health-advice/mens-health-week/
The Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance are using opportunity to raise awareness and remind men about bowel screening. They've have released a new video about how to complete the FIT kit. Encourage your family, friends and colleagues to watch this video if they're routinely sent a kit .
Bike Week & The Benefits of Cycling
Details from Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership
Did you know that this week is Bike Week? Bike Week shines a spotlight on the many ways cycling benefits us all - from boosting health and wellbeing to cutting carbon emissions and creating more connected communities. It's a week to celebrate the joy of getting on a bike and to inspire others to give it a go.
Download a cycling map for each area of Greater Manchester from the Bee Network website.
'While You Wait' Support
NHS Greater Manchester
Are you currently waiting for a hospital appointment or treatment? Visit 'While You Wait' for support and advice on how best to manage your physical and mental wellbeing.
You will also find answers to frequently asked questions which may help address any concerns, including where you can look up an average waiting time.
Infant Mental Health Awareness Week 2025
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport is working hard to keep babies in mind and has developed an integrated Toolkit for Social Emotional Development and Mental Health from conception to their 5th birthday.
You can hear more about the support that is available for anyone working with families in this video from Emma Arnold, Clinical Lead for Parent Mental Health in Stockport.
For more information, email the team or go to the Social & Emotional Development & Mental Health Padlet
Get Involved: Big Food Collection
Details from Stockport Foodbank
Stockport Foodbank are running their 'Big Food Collection' from 9 - 29 June. Your donations will make a real difference to those who are facing ‘tough times’.
They are immensely grateful for the regular donations from Schools, Businesses, Charities, Churches and many individuals and organisations, however, they need to replenish their warehouse and make sure they sufficient stocks to meet the demands from our community.
Funding: CDL Fund is Open for Applications
Details from Pure Innovations
The latest round of the CDL Fund, in partnership with Forever Manchester, is now open for applications from grassroots community groups in the borough of Stockport.
Cheshire Datasystems Limited (CDL) is a leading insurance software house based in Stockport. As part of their commitment to corporate social responsibility, they work with Forever Manchester to deliver support to grassroots community groups.
Applications close at midday on Thursday 3 July.
Applicants must be based in the Stockport borough and have an annual income of less than £150k.
Have Your Say: Local Adult ADHD Services
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Have your say Stockport! Take part in NHS Greater Manchester’s survey (left click) and meet the team on 18 June to share your views about adult ADHD services.
The NHS GM Engagement team is finding out how the public thinks access to adult ADHD services and support can be improved. Those who get involved will be asked to choose between two potential options for what the new service might look like.
For more information, visit NHS GM website
Why are services being reviewed?
- Waiting times are getting longer with an estimated 25k people waiting for assessments
- Referrals are increasing.
- People are struggling whilst waiting.
- If things don’t change, people could be waiting over seven years for assessment and diagnosis.
If demand continues at current levels, it will also cost the NHS in Greater Manchester at least £10 million a year to fund assessment services, with not enough staff to see people quickly.
Have your say and meet the team:
Have Your Say: Men's Health Strategy for England
Details from Healthwatch England
Read the article
Have Your Say: Eye Care (Ophthalmology) Services
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
More people across Greater Manchester are needing ophthalmology services putting them under pressure and increasing waiting times. NHS Greater Manchester (GM) wants to hear from you as part of their evaluation aimed at improving care for people with eye disorders.
Have your say before 25 July. You can take part by:
- Attending a local engagement session (dates to be confirmed)
- One-to-one call: contact gmhscp.engagement@nhs.net or 07786 673762.
Ophthalmology services include the diagnosis and treatment of a range of eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and urgent eye problems. Many patients are referred into these services by GPs, optometrists or specialists managing conditions like Diabetes.
Stockport Celebrates Armed Forces Day
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport celebrates Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 28. This year's event will be a special occasion, with celebrations taking place across the town centre including a parade and various family activities. The Stockport Armed Forces Community Organisation (SAFCO) is leading the event, with support from Stockport Council and other partners.
- A parade will kick off from St Peter's Square at 10.45am and conclude in Market Place, with the salute being taken by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Manchester.
- Live entertainment from a stage in Market Place, with Strawberry Radio providing music.
- Various exhibits and activities will be available, including military displays, a WWIl trail for kids, and a replica Spitfire at Merseyway Shopping Centre
- The Stockport Air Raid Shelter Tours and Stockport Museums and Galleries Staircase House and Stockport Museum will be open for free visits.
- The event will feature a range of community stalls, vintage vehicle exhibits, and re-enactments.
SmileyWorld Trail Comes to Stockport
Details from Totally Stockport
Get ready to explore a full spectrum of emotions as Totally Stockport brings a vibrant Wild in Art trail to the heart of Stockport.
From 4 July to 15 September, Stockport will transform into a playful outdoor gallery as the SmileyWorld® Art Trail takes over the town centre with a colourful collection of quirky, fun and exciting sculptures, each inspired by the SmileyWorld® icons.
Following huge success in Battersea, London and North Tyneside, the SmileyWorld® Art Trail will be making its North West debut, guaranteeing family fun during the school summer holidays - and best of all, it's completely free to attend!
Interested in Adopting?
Details from Adoption Counts
Have you been wondering if adoption is right for you, to grow your family? Do you want to better understand what adoption is really like? Adoption Counts are running free, online events this month. Complete the form to attend a future 'Information Event'.
The next one is 25 June, 6.30pm - 8.30pm.
You will have the chance to learn more about the process, the types of children waiting to be adopted and why we think you should choose us to start your adoption journey. You can ask questions to our experienced team and get all the advice and information you need to make this life-changing decision.
90 Minute Club
Details from Stockport County Community Trust
The 90 Minute Club’, created in partnership with Stockport County Players Association and Age UK Stockport, is their weekly Sporting Memories programme, delivered at Edgeley Park.
They discuss all things Stockport County, Football more broadly and the history of Stockport, with monthly guest speakers including ex-players, club captains and local historians.
The programme is developed for participants aged 60 and over. The sessions are designed to be social, with a chance to meet like-minded people. They also support those living with Dementia, their family members and carers.
Every Wednesday at 2pm -3.30pm (Cheadle End).
To attend:
07816129313
Start Well Week of Action - 'Little Moments Together'
Details from Stockport Family Hubs
The Start Well team are excited to invite you to Start Well Week of Action, from 23-27 June! The team have organised a week full of insightful events, resources, and activities for parents, caregivers, and professionals under the theme of using ‘Little Moments Together’ to encourage children's learning, growth, and connection. See what’s lined up on the Professionals timetable.
Get ready for a week full of insightful events, resources, and activities. Please visit the Start Well Events calendar for details of events, resources, and activities for families or download the Families timetable.
LGBTQ Games Night
Details from Outside the Box
Looking for a night full of laughs, strategy, and community? Join 'Outside the Box' for their LGBTQ+ Games Night — a welcoming space for everyone to connect. What to expect:
- Friendly people
- Loads of board games to choose from
- Hosts to get you into a game and to teach you the rules
- Fully licensed, with loads of drinks and snacks to choose from.
Solo players are very welcome – they'll make sure you feel included!!”
Community as a Superpower Event
Details from the Stockport Refugee Consortium
The Stockport Refugee Consortium is hosting their flagship event “Community as a Superpower”, on Friday, 27 June 2025, as part of Refugee Week Celebrations.
The event will bring together leaders, advocates, and community members to spotlight the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees and asylum seekers across our region. The day will explore key themes including education, mental health, community initiatives and more.
Friday, 27 June, 9:30am -2:30pm
Stockport Guildhall, Wellington Road South, Stockport SK1 3UA
Tickets are available free at Eventbrite, but donations are welcomed.
Donation will support their drive for sanitary and household essentials
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Training: Future Ready - Learn to Code
Details from MadLab
MadLab is pleased to announce a new programme of FREE digital short courses this Summer. Aimed at people aged 18-30, who are unemployed or underemployed, and want to explore if a career in tech might be for them.
Designed for complete beginners, no prior coding experience is required, although participants need to be confident using a computer, browsing the internet, and managing files.
1-day Courses
- Coding with Python Taster Session - 25 June or 7 August
- Game Development Taster Session - 26 June or 8 August
- Web Development Taster Session - 3 July or 6 August
2-day Courses
- Learn HTML - 16 & 17 July or 13 & 14 August
- Learn CSS - 23 & 24 July or 20 & 21 August
- Learn JavaScript - 30 & 31 July or 27 & 28 August
- Hackathon - 9 & 10 July or 3 & 4 September
- Learn Game Development - 3 & 4 September
All courses run from 10am to 3pm in central Stockport.
While courses are free, they require a small booking fee to secure your place (£3 for a 1-day and £5 for a two-day course), which is refunded on attending the course.
Please visit Eventbrite page to book your place.
For further information, contact:
07874 040940.
Training: End the Silence
Details from Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership
Across Greater Manchester, taxi and private hire drivers are being encouraged to complete a short online training course that could help them spot the signs someone might be struggling - and even save a life.
The initiative is part of Shining a Light on Suicide, a campaign led by NHS Greater Manchester to break the stigma around suicide and make support easier to access. With more than 200 lives lost to suicide in the region each year, the message is clear: suicide prevention is everyone’s business.
If you know a taxi or private hire driver, take the Zero Suicide Alliance training to learn how to recognise warning signs and provide support.
Training Courses Coming Up
There are a variety of training courses including those from from Skills For Life (SFL) and others. Please see the attachments below:
Answer Cancer
For Men to Talk
Samaritans Stockport
Samaritans Stockport newsletter
Starting Point
Stockport Council
Stockport Race Equality - Migrant News
June Migrant News - Stockport Race and Equality Partnership
Stockport’s Community Newspaper
June issue out now
Stockport Family Hubs Newsletter
Latest issue here
Information and Advice
For up to date health and social care information, signposting and guidance, call Healthwatch Stockport on
0161 974 0753 10am - 2pm
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
Visit our Information and Signposting directory
Do you have a health or social care experience you want to share – how did your last appointment with your GP or dentist go? Are you happy or frustrated with the service you received – let us know so we can work with local services to influence better commissioners and better outcomes for you and your family.
