Healthwatch Round Up - 20 November 2025
Welcome to this week's Healthwatch Stockport Information Round-up!
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'What to Know This Winter' Booklet Available
The Healthwatch Stockport team have pulled together a super useful booklet sharing tips, tricks, advice and important information to help you and your loved ones through the Winter months and colder weather.
This handy booklet is available digitally to download and share, or in a printed version. Many hard copies are already been distributed to libraries, pharmacies, and local community venues and businesses across Stockport, with more to be delivered in various locations. So feel free to pick one up! To ask for a copy, contact the team:
0161 974 0753
info@healthwatchstockport.co.uk
Please share this with loved ones and your networks.
Healthwatch Findings Inform Government's Men's Health Strategy
This week, Healthwatch England (HWE) published findings from their research on men’s health, to help inform the Government’s forthcoming men’s health strategy.
The data shows that social media and AI tools are becoming a popular source of information on how to stay healthy for men, especially for younger men and those from ethnic minority communities. Healthwatch have called on the NHS to use this as an opportunity to improve their digital visibility.
Read their blog about the issue: www.healthwatch.co.uk/blog/2025-11-05/ai-and-algorithms-healthcare-what-are-risks-and-opportunities-nhs
The full report can be found here: Men's Health: How to improve health outcomes, knowledge and behaviours | Healthwatch
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.
What are parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities telling us?
How can your pharmacy help you?
Did you know that pharmacies provide advice and information on minor illnesses and ailments? Find out how they can help you.
Living With or Affected by Prostate Cancer?
Details from Healthwatch in Greater Manchester
Healthwatch across Greater Manchester want to hear your experiences of prostate cancer services. Your feedback will help to raise awareness and shape better services.
In light of International Men's day and the Government announcement of the men's health strategy, we want to share a spot light on two men's services.
Stockport Manbassadors
Stockport Manbassadors is a local initiative helping men access the right support, when and where they need it.
Manbassadors are trusted members of the community (barbers, café owners, coaches, and others) who can recognise when someone might be struggling and signpost them to local wellbeing and mental health services. For GPs and community workers, the Manbassadors network offers a valuable, helping men get support before reaching crisis point.
Find out about the scheme www.sk-y-light.org/other-services/stockport-manbassadors/
For more information on volunteering, email nerys.carpenter@stockporthomes.org
Tackling Minds
Tackling Minds was founded in 2020 in Greater Manchester by David Lyons, who had experienced complex mental health problems and found that fishing was vital in his recovery. His journey inspired him to establish Tackling Minds to share the benefits of angling with others facing similar challenges.
The purpose - to improve mental health, reduce social isolation and create opportunities for people often left behind by traditional services. This includes disabled people, those with mental health conditions, people in recovery from addiction, families, veterans, young people, and those experiencing poverty or long-term health conditions.
It doesn't matter whether someone has never picked up a fishing rod before or has years of experience. They provide all equipment and support, and qualified coaches and volunteers, many with lived experience, create a stigma-free environment. Sessions are free, person-centred, and adapted to individual needs.
Announcement: England's First Ever Men's Health Strategy
Details from Men's Health Forum & UK Government
After over a decade of campaigning, the Men's Health Forum welcomes the first ever Men's Health Strategy for England. The UK government is launching a ‘landmark strategy’ which ‘aims to tackle crisis in men’s mental health, improve physical health and reduce inequalities.’
Men can be less likely to seek help and more likely to suffer in silence. This, combined with a higher propensity to smoke, drink, gamble and use drugs, means men’s health is suffering, having a significant impact on families, workplaces and communities. This strategy will help give men and boys to get on and live longer, healthier lives.
- As part of the strategy, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) will team up on the Premier League’s Together Against Suicide initiative and smash the stigma around mental health
- Men with prostate cancer will also benefit from improved care through the strategy, alongside £3.6 million investment in suicide prevention projects targeting middle-aged men
- Suicide prevention, alcohol abuse and problem gambling will be the focus of a new government strategy for men's health.
Read the full announcement
Supporting Our Stockport Carers
Details from Stockport Council
On Carers Rights Day (20 November) and to mark this national day, Stockport Council launched brand-new webpages dedicated to supporting carers across Stockport.
Developed in partnership with Stockport Council, Signpost for Carers, and the Carers Partnership Board, this new digital space is packed with practical guidance, local service links, and real stories shaped by carers themselves.
Read more about these new pages, share them with your teams and networks Stockport marks Carers Rights Day - Stockport Council
Together, we’re making sure carers have the support and recognition they deserve every day.
Safe & Effective Pharmacy Care: Strategy Published
Details from the General Pharmaceutical Council
The General Pharmaceutical Council have published their Putting our strategy into action: our delivery plan for 2025-2030, outlining how their 2025-30 strategy will be delivered.
It focuses on what matters to patients, pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacy owners, and how they'll improve support, drive greater consistency and invest in the areas that make the biggest difference to safety and public confidence.
Antimicrobial Awareness Week - Use Antibiotics Wisely
Details from NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care
It's Antimicrobial Awareness Week so the NHS and health care organisations are reminding everyone about using antibiotics wisely.
Many of us will feel under the weather at some point during the Winter – a sore throat, headache, aching muscles and a constant runny nose can leave us feeling tired and miserable. But it’s important to remember that most of these illnesses are caused by viruses, and antibiotics won’t help you get better faster.
Using antibiotics when we don’t need them can cause problems later. It can make bacteria stronger, so antibiotics might not work when we really need them. The NHS is asking everyone to only take them as directed by their GP, nurse or pharmacist.
Reminder: Improving Communication for Patients
Details from NHS Stockport Foundation Trust
Stockport NHS Foundation Trust has gone live with CardMedic - a digital healthcare platform, enabling its workforce to communicate more clearly with patients who face language or communication barriers.
The platform provides access to live interpreters in 200+ languages via Language Line, alongside thousands of clinically validated scripts in multiple languages and formats, including British Sign Language (BSL), Easy Read, and Read Aloud. It also supports health literacy for same language patients by explaining information in plain language, clearly and succinctly.
Have You Checked out the Family Hubs App
Details from One Stockport Family Hubs
Download the Family Hubs App which is free for all Stockport residents!
The App is available in 75 languages and grows with your family. It contains a wealth of information and resources at your fingers tips, written by health professionals and psychologists. Learn more about many aspects of child development, behaviours and as well as other things you never knew you needed.
Download the Essential Parent GM Family Hub app
Once downloaded, choose Stockport to get started.
Greater Manchester Testing Week
Details from GMPash (Passionate About Sexual Health)
Greater Manchester Testing Week is from 24 – 30 November. During this week the PaSH Partnership (BHA for Equality, LGBT Foundation and George House Trust), have created a schedule of pop-up testing events throughout all boroughs of Greater Manchester. These events will include:
- Free HIV and STI testing
- Free condoms and lube
- Free and confidential Sexual Health Advice
Can’t make it to an event to get tested? Order a free postal kit from www.gmpash.org.uk
Sector 3 Are Moving!
Details from Sector 3
Sector 3 are leaving their current home at Merseyway Innovation Centre. From the end of November until the new year, they won’t have a physical office.
How to reach them: From 1 December the number 0161 5322150 will no longer be in use (please delete from your contacts). They’ll update you with a new phone line once they’ve moved. Alternatively, please email info@sector3sk.org
Over the past six years, the team has grown to provide more support, more services, and more opportunities for our Stockport's VCFSE (Voluntary, Community, Faith & Social Enterprise) sector, so this means the need for a bigger space.
In the new year, Sector will move next to Viaduct Park, Stockport, so it’s easy to reach.
Present for a Pensioner This Christmas
Details from Care Your Way Stockport
Care Your Way Stockport are running their 'Present for a Pensioner' initiative to deliver Christmas hampers to pensioners who may otherwise spend the holidays alone.
They need your nominations: If you know a pensioner through hospital discharge, step-down services, community support, hospice care, or your day-to-day work — who may be:
- isolated or living alone
- struggling financially
- without family nearby
- in need of a little Christmas kindness
…Care Your Way Stockport would be honoured to deliver a hamper to them.
Closing date for nominations: Friday 12 December.
Nominate here
Donations welcome: Care Your Way would welcome donations to help them create each hamper. Even the smallest contribution can help:
Donate a tin of baked beans or soup, tea bags, snacks such as biscuits, a hot water bottle, throw, socks, gloves or some festive surprises and treats.
Drop off donations: CareYourWay Stockport, Office Suite 0, The Mailbox, 1 Exchange Street, SK3 0GA https://maps.app.goo.gl/QJ3VoBrRpFRAbC9r9 from Monday - Friday 9am – 5pm.
Sponsor a full hamper for £35 by completing the form: https://careyourway.co.uk/contact/
Join the 'Be A Santa' Campaign
Details from Home Instead
The festive season is approaching, and so is Home Instead's 'Be a Santa' campaign! This year, the team are partnering with The Christie to spread joy and warmth to patients spending Christmas in care — and we need your help.
How you can make a difference: They’re collecting gifts for patients. Ideas include:
- Selection boxes for festive treats
- Gifts for women (16–24 & 25+)
- Gifts for men (16–24 & 25+)
All gifts will be lovingly wrapped by Home Instead volunteers and delivered directly to The Christie in time for Christmas. Two easy ways to give:
- Drop off: Home Instead, Victoria House, 179 Hall Street, Stockport, SK1 4JG
- Send via Amazon: Scan the QR code on our attached poster to purchase gifts from our Amazon wishlist — delivered straight to us!
Your generosity can bring comfort, cheer, and a big festive smile to those who need it most.
Stockport Foodbank Reverse Advent Calendar
Details from Stockport Foodbank
Stockport Get's Moving!
Details from Life Leisure
Stockport moved like never before with the help of Life Leisure’s 'Move Stockport' campaign. The challenge to complete 30 minutes of exercise every day encouraged thousands across the Borough to get active and see what a difference it could make to their lives.
The campaign inspired families, schools, workplaces and locals to prioritise their wellbeing through physical activity, and the results are in.
8 million minutes of movement: It’s estimated that the total ‘minutes of movement’ recorded across Stockport this September increased from 7.418 million to 8.256 million! That’s an 11% increase, or an impressive extra 838,000 minutes. That’s the equivalent of residents in Stockport completing almost 14,000 extra hours of exercise this September.
Read the full press release attached.
Have Your Say: Shape the Future of Continence Care
Details from Urology Trade Association
14 million people in the UK have some degree of urinary incontinence. The Urology Trade Association (UTA), The Urology Foundation (TUF) and the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) have launched a joint survey on patient dignity, experiences, and outcomes, aimed at improving continence care across the UK.
They'd like to understand people's experiences with urinary continence care, including how it affects your day-to-day life, dignity and how well the care and products work for you. The survey is aimed at adults who experience continence issues and/or their carer/family member.
The deadline has been extended to 30 November.
Have Your Say: The My Diabetes and Me Study
Details from Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust
Do you have Type 2 Diabetes and a Learning Disability? Perhaps you know someone who has?
Queen’s University Belfast and Northern Ireland Clinical Trials Unit are undertaking research with people who have Type 2 Diabetes and a mild/moderate Learning Disability. They'd like to understand if providing a structured education programme on managing Type 2 Diabetes and maintaining a healthier lifestyle helps participants manage their blood sugar levels.
Eligibility:
- Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes
- 18 years of age or older
- Mild/Moderate Learning Disability
- Capable of giving Informed Consent
- Living in the community
To take part, speak to Sophie Dawson on 0161 716 5460.
This project is funded by the National Institute for Health Research - Health Technology Assessment Programme.
Have Your Say: Kidney Disease Social Prescribing
Details from Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust
Queen's University Belfast are conducting a study to explore how people with kidney disease can be supported with social prescribing.
Social prescribing connects people to community-based activities, groups, and services to address practical, social, and emotional needs that impact their health and wellbeing.
They're asking people who've been diagnosed with kidney disease, social prescribers, link workers, and organisations providing socially prescribed activities or services, to complete a short survey.
Have Your Say: The Future of Stockport
Details from Stockport Council
Residents, businesses and community groups will be invited to share their views on the borough’s draft Local Plan, a legal document that will guide how Stockport changes over the next 15 years once adopted.
They want to hear what works, what doesn’t, and where alternative options and changes could be made, especially from those who live, work, study or run businesses in Stockport.
The consultation runs until 21 December 2025.
Residents can speak to the planning team at Adlington Walk, outside Stockroom, on:
- 24 November between 10.30am and 2.30pm
- 10 December between 10.30am and 2.30pm (inside Stockroom)
The planning team will be hosting drop-in information sessions around the borough from the 17 November.
Have Your Say: Bereavement & Hierarchy
Details from Age UK Stockport
Dr Jennifer Dayes, from Manchester Met University is leading research around bereavement and ‘hierarchy’. It’s the idea that in bereavement situations, we prioritise the needs of one or a few people above others to avoid conflict and disagreement in families at a difficult time.
This project explores ‘hierarchy’ in bereavement and grief contexts. They’re interested in why people consider others to be more or less important after a person has died, and as a result, what needs or desires are prioritised.
Eligibility:
They’d like to talk to people who are 18+, have been bereaved in the UK in the last 10 years, and had at least one experience of ‘hierarchy’ in a bereavement and grief context. By ‘experiencing hierarchy’, we mean have seen people being ranked as ‘more’ or ‘less’ important in bereavement contexts.
They only require five people to get involved.
To get involved, email Jennie at j.dayes@mmu.ac.uk.
Activities at Heaton Norris Community Centre
Voicing Grief Workshop
Details from NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board
Greater Manchester Mature Minds Matter are running a grief workshop enabling people to explore grief and loss in a safe space, learn new skills and have meaningful conversations.
This workshop is for people aged 50+ and lunch will be provided. The purpose of the network is to ensure the voice of older people with lived experience of mental health are able to influence the transformation of mental health support across Greater Manchester.
1 December, 10am - 4:30pm
St Thomas Centre, Ardwick Green North, Manchester, M12 6FZ
Spaces are limited, sign up using the link provided or calling 0161 834 9823
Transport support is offered for attendees if required, email gmopn@macc.org.uk
Crafted Futures of Stockport
Santa Dash in Aid of Tameside, Oldham, Glossop & Stockport Mind
On 9am, Friday 5 December, members of the Tameside, Oldham, Glossop and Stockport Mind team will be donning their Santa suits and setting off on a Christmas run to raise awareness of mental health.
Starting the run at Stockport Interchange the team will be hitting the streets running to Ashton then Oldham to celebrate the merger of our organisations.
The team will also be raising funds through JustGiving to in aid of Tameside, Oldham, Glossop & Stockport Mind's work to support mental health within our community.
The run will finish with an exciting final dash as Emmanuel and Ryan race to become the Santa Running Champion. If you happen to spot our Santa's on the day, give them a cheer!
To support the run, visit JustGiving: www.justgiving.com/page/santa-dash-togs-2025
Direct Payments - Fortnightly Drop Ins
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council are running fortnightly community drop-ins for anyone that would like to know more about Direct Payments and for new and existing service users. The next drop ins:
21 November & 5 December, 2pm - 4pm
High Lane Library, Buxton Road, High Lane, SK6 8DX
The Direct Payment team and a social work practitioner will be attending all drop-ins to support you with any questions. Maybe you:
- want to find out more about Direct Payments
- are in receipt of a Direct Payment from Stockport Council and want to discuss or be supported with this
If you have any questions, you can contact the brokerage team:
0161 218 1411
See the attached flyer for more details and follow the website for future dates.
Find out more about Direct Payments: www.stockport.gov.uk/direct-payments
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Training: Think Carer – Carer Champion Workplace Programme
Details from Signpost for Carers
Signpost for Carers are excited to announce their new, Think Carer – Carer Champion Workplace Training Programme — a CPD-accredited course designed specifically to help Stockport businesses identify and support unpaid carers within their workforce.
Running from November 2025 to March 2026, this fully funded opportunity will allow up to 300 local employers to nominate a member of staff to become a Carer Champion. Champions will gain the knowledge, tools, and confidence to:
- Recognise and support colleagues with caring responsibilities
- Promote carer-friendly policies and culture within their workplace
- Improve staff wellbeing, retention, and inclusion
As part of Stockport’s Live Well initiative, this project supports local employers to reduce inequalities in access to work, strengthen inclusive recruitment, and build stronger connections with the voluntary and community sector. They’re urging businesses to get involved.
Places are fully funded but available only until March 2026, dates until January 2026 are available now to book.
Signpost for Carers have been awarded funding through the Economic Inactivity Trailblazer Stockport VCFSE Work & Skills Fund 2025/26, a UK Government–funded initiative delivered in partnership with Sector 3, Stockport Council, Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Become a Stockport NHS Foundation Trust Member
Details from Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
Help shape our services! As a member, you'd have an opportunity to shape the future and ensure services are developed to best meet your and your family’s needs. Membership is completely free, and open to anyone over 16 years old.
What would I have to do? You can choose how much you want to be involved; this can range from receiving quarterly newsletters to standing for election as a governor during the election process, attending members health events or completing short surveys.
What are the benefits? Membership gives you the opportunity to provide feedback and ideas on the health issues that matter most to you.
In addition, as a member you can sign up for discounts at the free to join online discount scheme site www.healthservicediscounts.com, offering discounts, cashback and vouchers across a wide range of retailers.
Join for free:
To become a member, complete the online form here
For further information or questions, email: membership@stockport.nhs.uk
Or visit our website: Become a Member - Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
Job Opportunity: Join the Mastercall Family
Details from Mastercall
Training: Web Development Course
Details from MadLab
MadLab is excited to announce the launch of our next Shift Click: Intro to Web Development course. The four week course will give you practical experience with HTML, CSS and JavaScript, to create your own interactive websites.
21 November: Pre-course onboarding Session (online). 1-3pm
26 November: HTML. 10am - 3pm
27 November: HTML. 10am - 3pm
3 December: CSS. 10am - 3pm
4 December: CSS. 10am - 3pm
10 December: JavaScript. 10am - 3pm
11 December: JavaScript. 10am - 3pm
17 December: GitHub. 10am - 3pm
18 December: Project. 10am - 3pm
Plus: 4-6 hours of self-directed work (to be completed in own time)
Find out more on the website here and Programme Guide here. Key need-to-knows are:
- Additional (optional) online workshops take place every Friday from 1-3pm
- All workshops take place at Stockport Museum (SK1)
- Lunch and refreshments are provided
To apply, complete this application form. Places are limited.
Webinar: Is your child’s sleep disrupted?
Details from Stockport Council
Do you have a child aged 2 to 10 years of age and struggle with their disrupted sleep? Join Stockport Council's parenting team for a free online seminar:
4 December, 9.30am - 12pm online
In this session, they will cover sleep cycles, bedtime routines and supporting children’s sleep for ages two to 10. A parent at a previous session commented: “I was feeling overwhelmed and confused. The night terrors were daunting, but after the sleep session, I finally feel like I understand. Your support has truly made a difference.”
Webinars: Smartphone Safety & Cyberbullying
Most 11-year-olds have a mobile phone, but do they know how to protect themselves from cyberbullying? Kooth is inviting parents and carers to join them for a free 45-minute webinar on Thursday November 20.
It will share practical tips on how to help children deal with potential problems, how to spot signs of cyberbullying and what action to take.
Training & Activities 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
For Men who Talk
Greater Manchester Aging Hub
Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue
Greater Manchester Moving
Live Well Greater Manchester
King's Trust
Upcoming courses from The King's Trust
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.
