Healthwatch Round Up - 22 January 2026
Cervical Cancer Screening Fact Sheet
January is cervical cancer awareness month. If you've had your reminder to book your cervical screening, use this as a nudge to book your appointment. It could save your life.
Very early-stage cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms. It is usually found and treated because of cervical screening tests (this includes a smear test)
Healthwatch Stockport Cervical Screening Fact Sheet: Don't forget to check out our fact sheet on our website. Our fact sheet is designed to give you quick access to the information you need.
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.
NHS announces conditions for treatment at online hospital
Our response to new findings on corridor care
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.
'What to Know This Winter' Booklet Available
Don't forget to pick up or download your copy of our 'What to Know this Winter' Booklet, which shares tips, tricks, advice and important information to help you and your loved ones through the Winter months.
To ask for a copy, contact the team:
Jess’s Rule to be Advertised in GP Surgeries
Details from Gov UK
All GP surgeries in England will receive Jess’s Rule posters from this week, displaying the safety drive to GPs, primary care staff and patients in thousands of consultation rooms.
Jess’s Rule asks GPs to take a ‘fresh eyes’ approach and think again if, after 3 appointments, they have been unable to offer a patient a substantiated diagnosis or their symptoms have escalated.
The initiative, announced in September 2025, is named in honour of Jessica Brady, who died of cancer in December 2020 at the age of 27. It will help avoid tragic, preventable deaths as GPs are supported to catch potentially deadly illnesses sooner.
NHS to Train Schools and GPs to Spot Eating Disorders
Details from NHS England
The NHS has overhauled eating disorder services in response to rising demand with the number of children and young people treated rising two fifths since the pandemic (from 8,034 in 2019/20, to 11,174 in 2024/25).
New NHS guidance published today goes a step further and clamps down on the use of BMI thresholds to assess whether someone needs eating disorder treatment.
NHS clinicians will instead use a range of factors to assess young people with more focus on behaviour changes and family concerns rather than relying on rigid measures.
Online training will also be provided to teachers, GPs, and school nurses to ensure they are aware of signs and how they can refer a child for NHS support, backed by the charity Beat and the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
NHS to Offer Thousands of Men Life-Extending Prostate Cancer Drug
Details from NHS England
For the first time patients whose prostate cancer has not spread will be able to receive the drug in England, known as abiraterone, as the health service widens access to the treatment.
Around 2,000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer in the last three months whose cancer has not spread will get access to the treatment if it is of clinical benefit.
An additional 7,000 men are expected to be diagnosed with prostate cancer each year and will be eligible for the drug, which stops the cancer spreading by starving the disease of the hormones it needs to grow, such as testosterone.
Reminder: How Healthy is Your Lifestyle?
Details from NHS England
The NHS Healthy Choices Quiz is a health and wellbeing quiz brought to you by the Department of Health and Social Care. It suggests apps and resources, based on your answers, to help you live a healthier life.
The quiz asks about eating, alcohol, movement, smoking and vaping, your mental health and sleep. This quiz is for adults aged 18 and over.
Do not use this quiz if you:
- are aged 17 and under
- have an existing health condition, like diabetes or heart disease
If you're worried about your health, speak to a GP.
If you're pregnant, speak to a midwife or GP about this quiz. You can also visit the NHS Best Start in Life website for advice and support during pregnancy and for when your little one arrives.
New Resource for People Seeking Asylum: Reporting Hate Crime and Getting Support
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
We’re sharing an updated resource from NHS Greater Manchester to support people seeking asylum in Greater Manchester.
Seeking asylum can be especially challenging during periods of heightened tension and anti-migrant hostility. This poster acknowledges these concerns, provides clear guidance on how to report a crime, and signposts support for anyone who has witnessed or experienced crime.
The poster will be displayed in asylum accommodation, but please continue to share this further within the community. It is available in 11 languages including Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, English, Farsi, French, Kurdish, Pashto , Somali, Tigrinya and Urdu
The QR code links on the poster to further support on the GMCA website
Service Change: Open Door Have Moved
Details from Open Door
Open Door have moved to their new premises on Petersgate, Stockport.
They support people aged 18 and over who live in Stockport and in need of immediate crisis management and emotional support.
If you are feel you are at crisis point or struggling with your mental health:
Self refer here: www.makingspace.co.uk/.../open-door-self-referral...
Call 0161 549 9717, leave a short message with your name and number and one of the team will get back to you.
The team offer pre booked face to face/telephone and video calls, and a drop in service(no appointment needed). Opening times are Mon-Fri 10-6pm, Sat/Sun 12-5pm.
Neurodevelopmental Support
Details from Stockport council
You can view Stockport Council's Padlets to find out about their SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), ND (Neurodiverse) and Emotional Wellbeing offer and browse training, webinars, information, advice, and more!
Stockport's SEND, Neurodevelopmental & Emotional Wellbeing Offer: https://orlo.uk/jjUcU
Stockport Neurodevelopmental Support for Children & Young People (5-16): https://orlo.uk/x9okQ
Have Your Heard the Live Well Podcast?
Details from Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership
Tune in to the GM Live Well podcast to hear how councils, funders and services are helping communities lead lasting change across Greater Manchester. The podcast series brings together over 100 voices from across Greater Manchester to explore GM Live Well’s commitment to ensuring great everyday support is available in every neighbourhood.
Episodes are released weekly and you can listen wherever you get your podcasts.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/gm-live-well/
Don't Forget Your Vitamin D Boost!
Details from NHS England
From October to March we can’t make enough vitamin D from sunlight, so to keep bones and muscles healthy, it’s best to take a daily 10 microgram supplement of vitamin D.
You can get vitamin D from most pharmacies and retailers.
www.nhs.uk/condi.../vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-d/
Reminder: Extended Free Bus Travel for Older & Disabled Pass Holders
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Greater Manchester is planning further action to make public transport more affordable and accessible, with potential benefits for patients and services across primary care.
Subject to budget approval and consultation, the 9.30am weekday restriction on concessionary bus passes would be permanently removed from Sunday 1 March 2026.
This would allow older and disabled residents to travel free on Bee Network buses at any time, supporting access to healthcare, social activities and community support.
In addition, all bus and Metrolink fares are set to be frozen throughout 2026, extending cost-of-living support and helping reduce transport barriers that can contribute to health inequalities.
Nominate your Stockport SEND Superstars!
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council want to celebrate the incredible people, teams and projects making a real difference for children and young people with SEND in Stockport. From teachers and volunteers to creative projects – if someone has helped your child feel valued and included, nominate them today!
Their new award logo, chosen by young people from designs submitted by young people, will feature across the SEND Superstars Award all year.
Congratulations to its creator, Louie at Pure College!
Stockport SEND Superstars Award – Nomination Form
Do You Struggle With Cold Hands & Feet?
Details from the ME Association (MEA)
The ME Association has published a booklet around 'cold hands and feet, which includes information about Raynaud's.
In this booklet, they explore problems with temperature control (also called disturbed thermoregulation) which are very common in ME/CFS and include sensitivity to both heat and cold.
https://meassociation.org.uk/jseb
Please see the MEA Medical Matter's information on how to keep warm here:
Stockport to Host Tour de France Femmes Avec Zwift in 2027!
Details from Stockport Council
The world’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event is coming to our streets! On Saturday 31 July 2027, the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift will race through Stockport as part of its historic UK Grand Départ. This isn’t just a sporting milestone – it’s our chance to shine on a global stage, showcasing Stockport’s vibrant community and stunning landmarks to millions of viewers worldwide.
We hope it will inspire the next generation, especially women and girls, to get active and embrace cycling. Thousands of volunteer roles will also be available, giving residents the chance to be part of history. From boosting local pride to attracting visitors and investment, this is a moment for Stockport to come together.
Stay tuned for the route reveal and more details this Spring.
Run for Signpost
Details from Signpost for Carers
Have Your Say: AI in Healthcare (23 JAN)
Details from the Patients Association
AI is mentioned frequently throughout the 10 Year Health Plan, and is set to play a major role in the way that healthcare is designed and delivered. It is therefore crucial that patients' voices are heard in shaping how this technology is regulated and implemented.
The Patients Association is looking to gather patient feedback and views on AI regulation. These views will help inform their response to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) call for evidence on the regulation of AI in healthcare.
The survey will capture the views, concerns, and priorities of patients and the public regarding AI in healthcare. The survey takes approximately 10 minutes.
Take our survey on the regulation of AI in healthcare
Closing date: Friday, 23rd January.
Have Your Say: SEND Services in Stockport
Details from Stockport Council
Parents and Carers Together Stockport (PACTS) invite parents and carers of children and young people aged 0–25 with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) to take part in their local SEND survey.
This survey is for families who live in Stockport, or who accessed education, health, or social care services for their child or young person in Stockport during 2025.
Feedback will help identify areas for improvement. Participants who provide their contact details have a chance to win a £25 shopping voucher.
Have Your Say: SAFE PATHS
Details from National Institute for Health & Care Research (NIHR)
The University of Manchester’s School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work is conducting a study SAFE PATHS Improving Access and Care for South Asians with Psychosis, exploring the views and experiences of people from South Asian backgrounds about getting help for psychosis and attending ‘talking therapies’.
More information is available via the NIHR website: https://fundingawards.nihr.ac.uk/award/NIHR206951.
See the attached poster.
Preparing for Adulthood Strategy
Details from PACTs
The Preparing for Adulthood Strategy consultation is open until 31 January. The strategy outlines how we’ll support young people with SEND aged 14–25 as they move into adulthood. We want to hear from parents, carers, young people, professionals, and partner organisations to ensure the plan reflects real experiences and delivers positive outcomes.
Have Your Say: What Matters Most to you About Local Policing?
Details from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Your feedback helps us ensure policing meets the needs of our community.
Have Your Say: Future Transport Plans for Greater Manchester
Details from Stockport Council
People who live, work, travel, visit, or study in Greater Manchester are being asked to help shape the future of travel through to 2050, by giving their views during a public consultation.
The Greater Manchester Transport Strategy and Delivery Plan outlines how our region will deliver a world-class, joined up transport system – better connecting people with places, new jobs, opportunities, homes and services, including healthcare and education. The plans are backed by £2.5 billion funding from government to deliver transport projects through to the early 2030s.
Find out more and get involved by filling out the survey before Monday 9 March 2026.
More information is available at gmconsult.org along with details of drop-in sessions being held at public venues in every local authority area of Greater Manchester.
Have Your Say: Dementia &/or Psychosis Research
Details from Dementia United & Greater Manchester Integrated Care
The University of Manchester are looking for people with lived experience of Dementia and/or Psychosis to be involved in an important research project.
The research focuses on understanding the care needs and care pathways of people living with both Dementia and Psychosis. This involves:
- Attending 3–4 meetings per year (online/in person, dependant on what works for you)
- Each meeting lasting approximately one hour
- The PhD will run over four years, with an estimated total of 12–16 meetings
- There is no expectation to attend every meeting
- Payment of £25 per activity
If you're interested in taking part or you'd like to find out more, contact Kate at kate.stalker@manchester.ac.uk.
See the attached poster
Greater Manchester Asthma Friendly Schools Launch Event
Details from NHS Greater Manchester
Teachers are invited to attend a free event to help them give the best care possible to pupils who live with asthma
Thousands of children in Greater Manchester have asthma. The half-day session will see NHS clinicians give staff simple steps they can take to improve support for children.
This could lead to an improvement in attendance figures, and reduce the risk of pupils becoming unwell at school.
Anyone involved in improving health, safety and inclusion for children in schools is welcome to attend. This includes local authority leads, public health teams, paediatric, respiratory and other relevant clinical professionals, children’s services leaders, commissioners and system partners.
The event will also see the launch of the city region’s first asthma guide, which gives schools clear, practical advice.
The event takes place at:
12 February, 9.30am-12.30pm
British Muslim Heritage Centre, College Road, Manchester, M16 8BP
Reminder: Wills & Trusts Q&A Session
Details from Stockport Advocacy
Reminder: SENsitive Parents Group
Inspire Her Yoga Sessions
Signpost for Carers' Drop ins
Signpost for Carers have excitedly launched a new carers drop-in at their home, the Heatons Centre.
Join them on 2 February for their very first session!
You’ll be welcomed by their team member Jennie, and for this first drop-in you’ll also be joined by Kevin, their Moneywise expert.
It's a great opportunity to relax, learn something new, and meet other unpaid carers. Enjoy a hot drink, refreshments, and a warm welcome from the Signpost volunteers.
No booking needed – just turn up on the day!
To find out more, email bookings@signpostforcarers.org.uk
Call 0161 442 0442.
Free Family Tech Sessions at Stockport Museum
Details from MadLab
MadLab is running a series of family tech sessions at Stockport Museum throughout January and February, aimed at children aged 7–12.
The sessions offer hands-on opportunities to explore coding, digital creativity and technology through playful, practical activities led by experienced facilitators.
All sessions are free, but booking is required.
Find full details and book your places via the Eventbrite page.
Further Events & Community Activities across the Borough
Careers: Stockport Living Well Team
Careers: Together Trust SEN Teacher
Careers: Stockport Work Well Drop Ins
Stockport's WorkWell service offers personalised support for people struggling with health conditions to start, return to, or stay in work. The team has supported over 400 people by providing one-to-one guidance, tailored wellbeing support and careers advice to help them move forward with confidence.
Watch the video and find out more
Training: Empowering Parents
Support: Walthew House Assistive Technology
Training: Daisy First Aid for Babies
Details from Daisy First Aid
Have you struggled to find the time to attend a first aid course? Or found it hard to even get out of the house with a baby?
Join Daisy First Aid's interactive paediatric first aid training from the comfort of your own home via Zoom. No packing the nappy bag, no rushing out the door – just expert-led, engaging training designed for real parents.
- Live, interactive sessions
- Baby-friendly & parent-focused
- Learn from home
Questions? Email sian@daisyfirstaid.com
Training: Guide to Online Harms
Training: Think Carer!
Signpost for Carers have recently 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).
This funding enables them to deliver our 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 or for larger organisations one per department. 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.
This is a fantastic, fully funded opportunity to take positive action for your workforce and help make Stockport a more carer-aware borough.
Places are fully funded but available only until March 2026, dates until February 2026 are available now to book.
Book your free Carer Champion place today via Eventbrite:
www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/signpost-for-carers-111081186161
Training: Support Conversations about Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
Details from Stockport Council
If you potentially come into contact with people in distress, please take some of these free online learning opportunities:
Suicide Awareness (suitable for anyone, not just professionals): Evidence-based training developed by 4MentalHealth and delivered in ½-day classroom or Zoom sessions by local Stockport trainers.
Helps delegates understand how distress develops and how people can be best supported.
Email info.wellbeing@stockport.gov.uk for more information.
Zero Suicide Alliance - short online training units on suicide awareness
The Zero Suicide Alliance - online training modules including general suicide awareness, awareness for people with autism, university students and a veteran and prison edition.
The suicide awareness training is a 30-minute online course aimed at anyone aged 16 and over. The course includes coached scenarios sharing approaches for how you can talk to someone you’re worried about.
Healthy Minds Greater Manchester online course: The Royal Society for Public Health offers an online course for anyone living or working in Greater Manchester. At the end of this one-hour course you will better understand:
- the difference between mental health and poor mental health.
- the things we can do to help us cope with our negative thoughts and feelings.
- the benefit of talking and sharing our thoughts and feelings with someone we trust.
Samaritans online advice: Not a training course, but useful reading on what anyone can do if worried about someone else, including supporting someone with suicidal thoughts, and a section on myths about suicide, and one on active listening tips.
And don’t forget to look after yourself too:
NHS Every Mind Matters provides simple tips and advice on looking after our own mental health: https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
Careers: Live Well, Work Well
Training: Connect 5 Mental Health Sessions
Details from Stockport Council
Stockport Council is offering new dates for the popular Connect 5 training, which is free of charge for anyone working or volunteering in Stockport.
New Session 1 dates have been added for March, all Session 2 dates are currently fully booked but they hope to have some new dates soon.
To book a place for any of the sessions, please CTRL & click on the following link
Course Details: Delivery Time: 3 Hours (Sessions 2 and 3 are approx 3.5 Hours)
Connect 5 is a free mental health training programme that aims to change the way we have conversations about mental wellbeing across Stockport. It's designed to increase confidence and skills so that you can have better mental wellbeing conversations, whatever your role.
How it Works
Session 1: Brief wellbeing advice: Looks to increase confidence and skills to have brief conversations in which we can help a person to consider ways they can take action to improve their mental wellbeing.
Session 2: Brief mental wellbeing intervention: Builds on the skills learnt in session 1 and develops further skills to enable conversations in which we and the person we are talking with can develop a shared understanding of their mental wellbeing needs.
Session 3: Extended mental wellbeing conversation: Builds on skills learnt in sessions 1 and 2 and develops further skills to empower a person to make changes that address their mental wellbeing needs.
For further information, email info.wellbeing@stockport.gov.uk
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:
Diabetes UK
For Men to Talk
King's Trust
Upcoming courses from The King's Trust
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.
