Healthwatch Round Up - 4 September 2025
Welcome to this week's Healthwatch Stockport Information Round-up!
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To promote your work, event or share any information, please fill in the form here or email comms@healthwatchstockport.co.uk directly.
Have Your Say: Protect Your Right to be Heard
Healthwatch Stockport are asking for your support in signing a petition to review the decision to abolish independent local Healthwatch and protect for people to have an independent voice.
So far, the number of people who have signed is nowhere near enough so we really need your help to sign and share this petition far and wide to have this petition considered by the Government.
Please sign and share this petition via your socials, organisation newsletters, and by encouraging others to get involved.
Healthwatch Focus: Using Primary Care Services
- What do you think of local Primary care services?
- Do you struggle to get the care you need?
- Can you access these services?
- Do you face any barriers?
- Do you need any communication support to understand what's available to you?
The team are continuing to research how our local community accesses Primary Care (GPs, pharmacies, dentists, eye care) if you have additional needs (physical, neurodiverse or mental health need). Please share your feedback and experiences with us and encourage others to do the same.
Healthwatch Focus: Screening Campaign (Cervical Cancer)
Earlier this year, the Healthwatch Stockport team developed a series of informative screening fact sheets. We're running a campaign to shine a spotlight on them and the importance of screening and give you quick access to the information you need. This time, we're highlighting our Cervical Cancer screening fact sheet.
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.
Why support for patients with chronic pain must be improved
Living with chronic pain can limit your ability to live and work, yet it is a reality for millions of people in England. Find out the problems people are facing and what services can do to better support people living with pain.
Scroll down to our 'Service Spotlight' to find out about Stockport's Pain Cafe - a welcoming group for anyone who lives with chronic pain.
The hidden wait to be prescribed ADHD medication
People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are facing long waiting times to get their diagnosis. However, our research reveals that even after they are diagnosed, people face another wait to get the medication they need to help them manage their condition.
How can self-employment affect health and care, and what would help?
Our latest insight looks at how to tackle care barriers among self-employed people.
Stockport Pain Cafe
This group, originally the Fibromyalgia Community Café, is a welcoming and inclusive place to go for anyone who is living with any kind of chronic pain.
It’s a drop in, no referral needed. They meet on the first and third Monday of each month in a private room at the Micker Brook, 10.30 - 12. They are a very welcoming and supportive group – please spread the word!
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
Winter Fuel Payments – Info & Scam Awareness
Details from Greater Manchester Aging Hub
On 9 June 2025, the Government announced they're reinstating the Winter Fuel Payment for everyone over the State Pension age in England and Wales.
However, there are reports of people being contacted directly regarding the upcoming Winter Fuel Payment. Please note: this is a scam. Scammers are offering to help setup the Winter Fuel Payment and asking for bank details. Never give out any personal information by phone, email or in writing.
Winter Fuel Payments will be made automatically. No one will contact you directly.
You can report suspicious texts at stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk.
Visit the UK Government website to learn more about your eligibility and view the timetable of payments this winter.
Free Chickenpox Vaccinations to be Available
Details from UKHSA
A free chickenpox vaccination will be offered for the first time to children across England on the NHS from January.
GP practices will offer eligible children a combined vaccine for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) - the clinical term for chickenpox - as part of the routine infant vaccination schedule. It will mean kids miss fewer days in nursery and school while parents will not need to take time off work to care for them.
NHS GM's ‘Keep Protected this Winter' Campaign
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
NHS Greater Manchester are launching their 'Keep Protected This Winter' campaign to keep people safe from serious illness over the colder months and encourage eligible people to come forward for their Winter vaccinations. The campaign aims to tap into our natural instinct to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe and protected.
The first phase of the campaign focuses on the flu and RSV vaccine.
Who’s Eligible for the Autumn 2025 Flu Vaccine
Details from the UK Health Security Agency
Flu is far more than just a bad cold. For some, it can increase the risk of developing serious lung and airway infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia or can make existing conditions worse. It is why getting vaccinated each year is vital.
The NHS recommends flu vaccination for several groups:
From 1 September 2025
- pregnant women
- all children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2025
- children with certain long-term health conditions (6 months to under 18 years)
- primary school aged children (from reception to Year 6)
- secondary school aged children (from Year 7 to Year 11)
- all children in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to under 18 years
From 1 October 2025
- everyone aged 65 years and over
- individuals aged 18 to under 65 with certain long-term health conditions
- care home residents
- carers in receipt of carer's allowance, or main carer of an elderly or disabled person
- those living with people who are immunocompromised
- frontline health and social care workers
The NHS website contains further information on eligibility, but if you're unsure whether you're able to have a free vaccination you can consult your GP, practice nurse, or pharmacist. If you’re pregnant you can also consult your midwife.
NHS Pledge to Eliminate Cervical Cancer
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
NHS England has pledged to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040. The HPV vaccination, cervical screening and treatment for cell changes can all help prevent cervical cancer.
All 12 and 13-year-olds in Year 8 are offered the HPV vaccine to help prevent certain cancers. If your child was eligible for the vaccine and missed out at school, please contact the School Aged Immunisation Team
HPV vaccination and cervical screening together gives us the best chance of eradicating cervical cancer. So please, get the HPV vaccine and book your cervical screening when invited.
New Digital Support for Victims of Crime
Details from Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Greater Manchester Victims' Services (GMVS) has launched a new digital referral portal, making it easier than ever for people affected by crime to access support.
Co-designed with people with lived experiences, the platform makes it easier to:
- Get information about your rights
- Make an online referral
- Revisit the site as your needs change
NHS Lung Health Checks 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 currently available for eligible people registered with the following GP practices:
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Manor Medical Practice SK2 5AR
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Heaton Mersey Medical Practice – SK4 3BT
Heaton Moor Medical Group – SK4 4NX
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
New Outpatients Building at Stepping Hill Open
Details from Stockport NHS
Stockport NHS have announced the opening of a new improved outpatients building at Stepping Hill Hospital.
The new building is a modern and efficient facility with over 50 rooms, where patients, their families and carers can expect to receive high quality care. Services available from the facility will include orthoptics, optometry, dentistry, cardiology, neurology, oncology, pain, podiatry, rheumatology and more . They will be operational in the coming weeks.
The building will have state-of-the-art new equipment, which Stockport NHS Charity funding contributing toward the new facilities.
GM Walking & Wheeling Fund 2025/26 Open
Details from Greater Manchester Aging Hub
Applications for the Greater Manchester Walking and Wheeling Fund are open until Friday 26 September 2025.
The Fund 2025/26 has re-opened to boost health and wellbeing in Greater Manchester. Last year, more than 1,700 people begun walking and wheeling more often thanks to support from the GM Walking and Wheeling Fund from GM Moving.
Read their impact report on last year’s funding.
Making an Impact! Influencing Stroke & Neurorehabilitation Services
Details from Greater Manchester Neurorehabilitation & Integrated Stroke Delivery Network
The team released their Annual Report showcasing their many achievements of the past year, and marking their 10th anniversary as a network.
With help from their Patient & Carer Group, they've now developed a plain English version summarising what matters most to those with lived experience of neurological conditions.
Stockport's Race & Culture Awards 2026
Details from One Stockport
Nominations for Stockport’s 2026 Race and Culture Awards are now open. These awards shed light on individuals and groups who fight for positive change, nurture diversity and challenge racial and cultural barriers.
The Awards, run by the Stockport Race Equality Partnership, will take place on February 6, 2026, at Stockport Town Hall.
To find out more: One Stockport website
Support Available to Neurodivergent Adults
Details from Stockport Council
As part of Stockport’s first all-age Autism Strategy, Stockport Council have created this document to outline the support available for local neurodivergent (e.g. Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia) individuals who are 16 years old and above. This includes online support, local organisations and groups, social activities and more.
Click here to view Stockport's all-age Autism Strategy.
Stockport Homes' Art & Photography Competition
To mark 20 years of Stockport Homes, they're inviting local people to showcase their talent by running an art and photography competition. They're looking for exciting photos and art that illustrates the beauty, diversity and character of Stockport, and the communities that live here.
Submit your artwork or photographs for a chance to be featured in an exhibition and win exciting prizes. Closing date: 3 October.
Have Your Say: Help to Improve Cancer Services
Details from Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance
Could you give time to help improve cancer care locally? Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance are running some focus groups to gather feedback from patients and carers this September.
9 September, 1.30pm: Are you a patient who has or cares for someone with bladder, kidney or prostate cancer? Join the focus group to talk through your experiences.
11 September, 2pm: They're inviting oesophageal and stomach cancer patients and carers to join our focus group to share their experiences.
Have Your Say: Calling Young Carers!
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!
Stockport Mind's 80's & 90's Party
Get Involved: Stockport's Moving
Details from Life Leisure
Life Leisure are encouraging everyone to do 30 minutes every day this September and see what difference it makes to your life. Stockport’s moving. Are you in?
- Aim to complete 30 minutes of movement every day for 30 days this September
- Use hashtags #everymovecounts and #movestockport to share your journey on social media
- Download the free 30-Day movement tracker
- Download the Life Leisure app for daily motivation
- Explore local classes, walking groups, and low-impact sessions at Life Leisure
- Join Life leisure on 24 September for a choice of free activities at Stockroom
Words of Wellness: 12-Week Creative Arts Journey
Details from Fikawelie
In partnership with Live Well Stockport, FikaWelie are running a 'Words of Wellness' a creative storytelling, arts, and wellbeing programme.
The programme is aimed at adults aged 18+ from Caribbean, African, South Asian, and other Global Majority backgrounds residing in Stockport and surrounding areas. Even though the programme is underway, you are welcome to join.
Each 2-hour session is crafted to foster a safe, inclusive environment for expression, healing, and empowerment. See the poster for details.
Join in Know Your Numbers Week
Details from Stockport Council
'Know Your Numbers' week is taking place on 8-14 September 2025 to raise awareness of high blood pressure, share the risks and highlight the treatment and support available.
Stockport Council are running free blood pressure checks at local pop-ups or community events:
- Monday 8 September 9:30am to 4pm – Life Leisure Avondale
- Tuesday 9 September 10am to 4pm – Merseyway Shopping Centre
- Wednesday 10 September 10am to 12pm – Stockport County, Edgeley Park,
- Thursday 11 September 10am to 4pm – Stockport Homes
- Friday 12 September 9:30am to 4pm – Stockport Market Place
Find out more about venues, dates and times.
St Matthews Church Open Day
Stockport Homes: Connecting Communities
Breathe Yoga
Details from Upward Frog CIC
Ready to breathe better this Autumn and lower your stress levels? Join the free 12-week stop smoking and yoga programme, starting Monday 15 September!
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Volunteering: Pure Insight Mentors
Pure Insight are recruiting local and caring people to do something very special in and around Stockport — volunteer to be a consistent, trusted adult in a young adult’s life.
Their mentors spend 2–3 hours a week with their mentee, providing practical and emotional support (and having fun). There’s a bit of tackling life’s challenges, a bit of celebrating wins and sometimes an arm round the shoulder when it doesn’t go so well.
The young people are individuals and need individuals to mentor, creating meaningful connections, and caring enough to stick around for 1-2 years to foster real change.
Join their 8-week (September training) cohort!
Stockport Volunteer Fair
Details from Sector 3
Looking to give back to your community? Are you interested in volunteering in Stockport but you aren’t sure what role is right for you?
Pop along to the Stockport Volunteer Fair to discover a world of volunteering opportunities right at your doorstop! The event will bring together a wide range of local charities, community groups and social enterprises for you to connect with.
Job Opportunity: Stockport Connect Hub
Open Door are hiring for a full-time Team Leader at Stockport Connect Hub to help support to people with enduring mental health conditions.
You will need to have previous experience of supervising staff, will be qualified to level 3 in Health and Social care (or equivalent) and will be qualified to level 5 in Leadership and Management (or equivalent /willing to work towards).
- 35 hours per week, permanent contract
You'll receive on-the-job training and development opportunities, the chance to gain further professional qualifications and more.
Job Opportunity: Mastercall Healthcare
Details from Mastercall
Mastercall Healthcare are recruiting for a Learning & Development Assistant. This role is ideal for someone who is organised, proactive, and passionate about supporting staff development.
- 30-37.5hrs per week (part-time & flexible options considered)
Applications close: 8 September 2025
Interviews: 24 September 2025
Stockport NCT
Whether you're preparing for birth or adjusting to life with your new baby, Stockport NCT are running expert-led antenatal and postnatal classes to support you every step of the way. Classes are due to run in October and November.
This course will be packed with all the essential info to help you feel confident and prepared for parenthood. Plus, you'll gain exclusive access to an incredible bonus pack:
- NCT Newborn Talks
- Newborn Safety & Baby Health
- Hypnobirthing & Yoga for Pregnancy video and audio guides!
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
Answer Cancer
Diabetes UK (Team North)
For Men who Talk
Greater Manchester Age Friendly Hub
King's Trust
Upcoming courses from The King's Trust
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.
