Healthwatch Round Up - 7 August 2025
Welcome to this week's Healthwatch Stockport Information Round-up!
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Impact: 'Let's Talk Continence' Research
Between November 2023 and December 2024, Healthwatch Stockport explored local adults’ experiences of continence services following repeated concerns from service users and carers.
While clinical care pathways are clear, access to continence products like pads and pull-ups remains inconsistent, with unclear local criteria. Feedback highlighted poor communication, delays, and lack of support—though some examples of good practice were found.
The report outlines key findings and recommendations to improve services and ensure fair, consistent access across Stockport. If you need this report in a different format, contact our team:
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
0161 974 0753
Impact: Your Voice Matters to Us!
Have you read our 2024-2025 Annual Report? Find out more about our work and the impact we've made across Stockport over the last year!
From helping the local community via our Information and Advice service, to making changes for lesser-heard communities, our positive impact is something we're hugely proud of! Your voice has enabled us to do this, you've shared your experiences, asked questions and talked to us about what matters most.... thank you.
Healthwatch Focus: Primary Care Services
We're continuing a work programme which looks at how our Stockport community accesses Primary Care (GPs, pharmacies, dentists, eye 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? Have you accessed these services recently?
Get in touch and please share this with your networks to reach as many people as possible.
Healthwatch Screening Factsheets
Earlier this year, the Healthwatch Stockport team developed a series of informative screening fact sheets. This month, we're shining a spotlight on them and the importance of screening.
Screening is a way of finding out if people have a higher chance of a health problem, so early treatment can be offered or advice can be given to help people make informed decisions.
Our fact sheets are designed to give you quick access to the information you need.
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.
The impact of having ADHD and Autism
ADHD and autism are two neurodiversity conditions that present in contrasting ways. In Healthwatch England's recent research they heard from people who were diagnosed with, or suspected they had, both conditions.
Trans and non-binary people face hurdles at every stage of primary care
The report comes almost seven years after the launch of the 2018 LGBT Action Plan, a cross-government initiative which pledged to tackle health inequalities.
Healthwatch England has called for the government and NHS England to develop a new comprehensive LGBT+ healthcare strategy.
Read the article
Breastfeeding Service Stockport
August 1 - 7 is Breastfeeding Week so we're raising awareness of the local support service and what help is available to you.
The Breastfeeding Stockport website has been developed to offer breastfeeding guidance and support for mothers in the Stockport area covering seven key areas including: How to breastfeed, Top breastfeeding tips and Support, further information and useful contacts
Breastfeeding Information videos: Click to see a useful series of information videos on breastfeeding produced by their team: Stockport breastfeeding information videos.
Support, further information and useful contacts: For advice and support on Infant Feeding
Call 07767 870506
infantfeedingteam@stockport.nhs.uk
Visit the Stockport Infant Feeding team Facebook page
Join a free group for parents and babies under 6 months old! Run by local parents, the group covers topics including processing your birth experience, understanding your baby's unique personality, chatting through normal feeding and sleep for newborns and keeping them safe.
For mental health support see the Pregnancy, Parenthood and Mental Health booklet
Reminder - National Emergency Test
The UK Government will send a test Emergency Alert to mobiles around 3pm, 7 September 2025.
The Emergency Alerts system is used to warn if there’s a danger to life nearby, including extreme weather. It allows vital information and advice to be sent to people rapidly in an emergency.
During the test, mobiles will vibrate and make a loud siren for roughly ten seconds, even if set to silent. A message will appear, making it clear the alert is only a test.
The Government will continue ongoing engagement with domestic violence charities to ensure people know how to switch off alerts on a concealed phone. Full instructions telling you how to opt out are available at www.gov.uk/alerts/opting-out
British Sign Language (BSL) Videos to Support Inclusive Diabetes Care
Details from Diabetes UK
Diabetes UK have shared a new set of videos designed to improve access to diabetes information for people with hearing loss/deafness.
Produced in collaboration with Deaf community members and healthcare partners, these short films are available in British sign Language (BSL) with subtitles and audio options. They cover key topics including 'What is diabetes?' and 'Why are diabetes health checks important?'
The videos respond to feedback from people who told us that written materials alone often don't meet their communication needs. By offering content in BSL, they're making diabetes information more accessible, inclusive, and easier to engage with, for those who may face barriers to care.
Diabetes information in different languages | Diabetes UK
Supporting Young People's Mental Health This Summer
Details from Greater Manchester Integrated Care
During the Summer, children and young people are out of their usual routines and social networks. Whether they're waiting for exam results, moving up a year at school, changing schools, starting college, or heading off to university, the Summer can be the start of change for many families.
With the right support, children and young people can move forward feeling secure, motivated, and ready to face new challenges.
NHS Lung Health Checks Are in Stockport
Details from Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance
The NHS is offering free lung health checks to current and former smokers aged 55-74 from its mobile clinics. A mobile clinic is parked at Heaton Lane car park, Stockport SK4 1AR.
Checks are available for eligible people registered with the following GP practices:
- Caritas General Practice Partnership – SK3 0RQ
- Adshall Road Medical Practice – SK8 2JN
- Bracondale Medical Centre – SK2 6EQ
- Stockport Medical Group – SK3 9NX
And some further postcodes in the Edgeley, Cheadle Heath, Shaw Heath, Davenport and Adswood areas of Stockport. Eligible people will be invited by post or via text message
For more information about Lung Cancer Screening, visit www.mft.nhs.uk/lunghealthcheck
If you have concerning symptoms, speak to your GP. www.nhs.uk/conditions/lung-cancer/symptoms
World's First Gonorrhoea Vaccination Programme
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
From 4 August, the NHS and local authorities commenced the roll-out of the world-first Gonorrhoea vaccination programme across the country.
This means that, sexual health clinics across England are now able to offer a free vaccine to those most at risk of the sexually transmitted infection (STI); Gonorrhoea — helping protect thousands of people and potentially saving the NHS over £7.9 million over the next 10 years.
The roll-out is part of this government’s commitment to keep people healthier through an array of prevention and community-based health initiatives.
NHS Now on WhatsApp
Details from NHS England
To help you stay up to date with information and services and manage your health, the NHS are now on WhatsApp. Follow the Channel to get trusted health info directly from the NHS.
Introducing the DadPad App
The DadPad app is an essential online guide for new dads, which has been developed with the NHS and dads across the UK.
As a new dad you will feel excited, but you may also feel left out, unsure or overwhelmed. DadPad can help by giving you the knowledge and practical skills that you need to support you and your partner to give your baby the best possible start in life.
Online Support for Children With SEND
Details from SEND Stockport Local
The SEND Stockport Local Offer website is your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about support for children and young people with SEND. From a handy directory of services to info on local events and extra support options, it’s all in one place.
Need accessibility support? The site toolbar:
• Translates into 100+ languages
• Offers text-to-speech
• Includes reading aids
• Lets you change colours and fonts
Next Steps for SPARC
Details from Stockport Progress And Recovery Centre (SPARC)
SPARC will soon be moving into a new office space at Disability Stockport and looking forward to getting back on track, acquiring new phones and updating their systems etc.
In the meantime our Counselling/therapy service, SPARC4Young Adults and the Nurture Group in partnership with Pure Innovations, will be continuing at a variety of venues around Stockport.
They will share more details in the near future.
Stockport Talking Newspaper
Details from Stockport Talking Newspaper
Stockport Talking Newspaper is a free weekly audio service designed for people who are blind, visually impaired, or unable to read printed materials due to a disability or health condition.
The service can be accessed on demand and can be received in a variety of ways (online, telephone, smart speaker, USB via post) for varying technical abilities.
Protect Kids From Online Risks
Details from Stockport Council
This Summer, Stockport Council are sharing ‘What to do when’ information aimed at building parents’ and carers’ knowledge and confidence in protecting their children from online harms. This week focuses on guidance for introducing children to mobile phones safely, including conversation starters, tips on setting boundaries, using parental controls, and managing risks like cyberbullying and inappropriate content.
Pop-up Uniform Shop is Back
The Pop-up uniform shop will be returning to Stockport's Merseyway from 8 - 15 August.
You'll be able to buy good-quality secondhand school uniform items for just 50p a piece. All items have been donated by the Stockport community, and all money raised goes back into the town by being donated to local charities and causes.
Stockport popup, next to Waterstones at Merseyway Shopping Centre.
Nominations Open - Stockport Homes' Star Awards!
Details from Stockport Homes
Stockport Homes' Annual Customer Star Awards are now open for nominations! This year's awards are extra special as it marks 20 years of Stockport Homes. If you know a person or a community group who work hard to benefit their neighbourhood, impressed you with their commitment, passion and accomplishments, nominate them now.
Nominations close at 9am, Monday 18 August.
Click here for categories and nomination form
If you are struggling to complete the online form, you can request a paper one or ask the Customer & Community Engagement Team for help by calling 0161 474 3331 or emailing customer.engagement@stockporthomes.org.
Starting Point’s 2025 Photo Competition
Details from Starting Point
Ahead of World Photography Day on 19 August, Starting Point are launching a photography competition. The theme is Stockport in the Summer and there are £50 worth of Amazon vouchers up for grabs. You can submit your photo by emailing claire@startpoint.org.uk
Action for Happiness Calendar
Action for Happiness
To help incorporate wellbeing into every day, Action for Happiness produce helpful calendars every month. This time, the focus is on Kindness.
Have Your Say: NHS Dental Contract Changes
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
The Department for Health and Social Care is asking for feedback on proposed changes to the NHS dental contract.
The NHS dental contract quality and payment reforms 2026 represent a significant and essential step on the journey to improve access to and quality of NHS dentistry. The proposed changes aim to improve access for those requiring urgent care, enhance treatment pathways for complex cases, and deliver better preventative care for children.
The consultation will close at 11.59pm on Tuesday 19 August. Staff working in NHS dentistry, commissioners, patients and organisations with experience in the dental sector are encouraged to submit their feedback on the proposals.
Any queries on the consultation can be directed to dentistrycontract2026@dhsc.gov.uk
Have Your Say: Safe4Summer Survey
Details from Sector 3
Greater Manchester has launched the Safe4Summer campaign aimed at reducing crime across our town centres and communities. It's part of the Government's ’Safer Streets Summer Initiative’ to restore and strengthen local policing in communities and lower or prevent anti-social behaviour (ASB).
As part of this, there will be a greater visibility of Greater Manchester Police officers and partners as we work together across crime hot spot areas. Take part in the Safe4Summer survey and share your views on safety in your area.
Have Your Say: Family Hubs Survey
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council and partners are keen to find out what families in Stockport have learned so far about Family Hubs and their services.
Please encourage families to complete the short survey by 14 September to be entered into a free draw to win a £30 Love to Shop voucher!
If you'd like posters or small cards with the QR code, contact: family.hubs@stockport.gov.uk
VJ Commemorations Across Stockport
Here are upcoming 80th anniversary VJ Day commemorations taking place across Stockport this August, supported by the Stockport Armed Forces Community Organisation. These events are a chance for us to come together in remembrance of the Second World War generation and to reflect on their sacrifice and legacy.
Making Space Open Day Event
Fostering Information Event
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council are hosting several fostering information events, including an online session on August 27 and a drop-in session on August 18 at Merseyway Shopping Centre. These events provide opportunities to learn about fostering, meet foster carers and the fostering team, and discover more about the supported lodgings scheme.
Virtual Fostering Information Session: Wednesday, August 27, 12pm - 1pm. This online event allows you to connect with the fostering team and ask any questions you might have about fostering in Stockport, according to Foster For Greater Manchester.
Life Leisure - Inclusive Activities
Life leisure are running a number of inclusion activities at their eight hubs across Stockport. These activities cater for all ages and abilities, ranging from children’s SEND activity, right up to confidence classes for older adults.
Children’s provision:
SEND Stay & Play – Mondays 5:45-6:45 - Houldsworth Village, Reddish
SEND Family Play (suitable for 1:1) – Tuesdays 4:30pm-5:30pm – Houldsworth Village, Reddish
SEND Family Swim – Wednesdays 3:50-5:20pm – Avondale, Cheadle Heath
Inclusive Inflatable Swim – First Saturday of month, 4:30-6pm – Romiley & Hazel Grove (Alternating)
Inclusive Fitness (Ages 13+):
Saturdays 12:45pm-4pm – Houldsworth village Reddish.
Sundays 12:45pm – 4pm – Grand Central, Stockport
Adult Provision:
Inclusive Lane Swim – Wednesday 7:45pm – 8:45pm - Cheadle & Mondays 7:10pm – 8:10pm - Romiley
Rehab and Recovery Swims – Monday 2:45pm, Wednesday 2:45pm, Thursday 11:00am – Hazel Grove & Monday 3pm, Tuesday 3pm, Wednesday 3:05pm - Cheadle
Confidence Swim – Thursdays 10:15am – Avondale
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Training: Stockport Live Well (Limited Places)
Details from Stockport Council
Join Stockport Council Neighbourhoods team for a ‘Welcome to Live Well’ and ‘Making Every Contact Count’ training session.
It’s all about helping you feel confident to have everyday chats that can really make a difference - like pointing someone to local support or services when they need it.
Connect with community, build relationships, explore neighbourhood strengths, and gain practical tools to make a difference in your work and daily life. Perfect for anyone in the private, public, or Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise sectors, it’s a simple way to help others early on before things get tougher.
There are multiple dates, and locations available. Book your free place.
Training: Empowering Parents & Communities
Volunteering: Supporting Vulnerable Families
Home-Start are looking for volunteers, to deliver support to vulnerable families across Stockport, especially in Offerton and Reddish – see attached flyer for details.
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:
Age UK Stockport
BEAT Eating Disorder charity
Diabetes UK (Team North)
For Men to Talk
Greater Manchester Age Friendly Hub
ND Matters
Sector 3
Starting Point
Stockport Council
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.
