Search Results

Calling all staff who work in GP practices and are part of our amazing RHA family! Mark your calendars for the 13th of June, 2024, as Rochdale Health Alliance proudly presents WellFest - a unique event designed exclusively for you, the dedicated heroes of the healthcare community. The inception of WellFest stemmed from a poignant realisation. A survey conducted among NHS staff revealed distressingly negative sentiments, prompting the PCA team to take action. Recognising the paramount importance of mental health and well-being among healthcare professionals, they conceived WellFest—a day dedicated to equipping staff with techniques and tools to enhance their overall well-being. What is WellFest? WellFest is more than just an event; it's a testament to our unwavering commitment to the health and happiness of our NHS family. With a plethora of stalls and activities curated to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul, WellFest promises to be a day of empowerment and relaxation. Stalls and Activities Prepare to be spoiled for choice as you explore our array of stalls, each dedicated to promoting holistic well-being. From the camaraderie of Andy's Man Club to the mindfulness of Mind, and the comprehensive support of Living Well and HMR Talking Therapy, you'll find resources and guidance to support every aspect of your well-being. But that's not all—immerse yourself in a variety of rejuvenating activities designed to invigorate your senses and soothe your spirit. Dance your cares away with Zumba and Bollywood dancing, discover your inner acrobat with circus skills, unleash your creativity with art therapy, and find inner peace through pilates, sound baths, and mindfulness sessions. Plus, indulge in some well-deserved pampering with massages, beauty tips, and even beard grooming courtesy of the local college. A Tribute to Our NHS Heroes At Rochdale Health Alliance, we deeply value and appreciate the incredible dedication and sacrifice of our NHS staff. WellFest is our way of expressing gratitude and solidarity with the amazing heroes who selflessly serve our community day in and day out. Your well-being is our priority, and WellFest is just one small gesture of our enduring support and admiration. Stay Tuned for More Information Keep an eye out for further updates and details about WellFest 2024. We can't wait to welcome you to this celebration of wellness and unity. Together, let's nurture our minds, bodies, and spirits as we continue to care for others with compassion and resilience. See you at WellFest! 🫶 Creating Better #ForYou Rochdale Health Alliance - NHS Backed and Trusted. #NHS #RochdaleHealthAlliance #PrimaryCareAcademy #Healthcare #Employability #HealthcareRecruitment

Welcome back to Rochdale Health Alliance's 'Services In Depth' blog series! In this edition, we're diving into the heart of accessible healthcare with a closer look at our In Hours Access Service. Designed to provide additional appointments to patients registered with a GP Practice within the HMR Borough, this service is a beacon of convenience and support for the local community. Locations and Accessibility With two conveniently located sites, the In Hours Access Service ensures that quality healthcare is never too far away. Our Whitehall Street Clinic in Rochdale and The Phoenix Centre in Heywood stand as pillars of care, ready to welcome patients seeking medical attention during designated hours. It's worth noting that the allocation of patients to these sites is streamlined for efficiency. Patients with GP practices in Heywood PCN or Middleton PCN are directed to The Phoenix Centre. While those registered with Rochdale North PCN, The Bridge PCN, Pennines PCN, or Canalside PCN are directed to Whitehall Street Clinic. Appointment Availability Our In Hours Access Service offers appointments from 10:00 to 17:45, Monday through Friday. These face-to-face appointments provide the reassurance of direct interaction with healthcare professionals within a timeframe that suits the daily routines of our patients. Patients can book appointments into the service through their registered GP, ensuring a seamless connection between primary care and additional services. This integration enhances continuity of care and ensures that patients receive the attention they need without unnecessary delays or barriers. Enhanced Collaboration with UTC In our commitment to comprehensive healthcare, we also collaborate with UTC (Urgent Treatment Centre) to provide allocated appointments for patients in need of urgent medical attention. These appointments, with specific time slots, are exclusively available for booking through UTC and are not walk-in appointments. This collaboration ensures that patients receive timely access to appropriate care, further enhancing the effectiveness of our healthcare ecosystem. Our Commitment to Community Healthcare At Rochdale Health Alliance, we are dedicated to bettering healthcare services for the local community within Heywood, Middleton, and Rochdale. Our In Hours Access Service is just one facet of our unwavering commitment to accessible, high-quality care for all. We strive to continually innovate and adapt to meet the evolving needs of our community, ensuring that healthcare remains a cornerstone of well-being and support. If you have any queries about our In Hours Access Service or any other aspect of our healthcare offerings, we encourage you to reach out to your GP. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Stay tuned for more insights into Rochdale Health Alliance's diverse range of services, as we continue to explore the landscape of healthcare excellence together. 👨‍⚕️ Going The #ExtraMile Rochdale Health Alliance - NHS Backed and Trusted. #NHS #RochdaleHealthAlliance #PrimaryCareAcademy #Healthcare #Employability #HealthcareRecruitment

Join us on the 27th of April 2024 at Deeplish Community Centre.

Welcome to our inaugural 'Our Services - In-Depth' series! Today, we're diving into one of our most essential offerings: Enhanced Access Services. These services represent a vital extension to GP practices, providing flexibility and convenience to patients across Heywood, Middleton, and Rochdale (HMR). What are Enhanced Access Services? Enhanced Access Services are designed to extend the standard services offered by GP practices. They are tailored to accommodate individuals with busy schedules, making it easier for them to access healthcare without disrupting their work or family commitments. It's important to note that Enhanced Access is not a walk-in service; appointments must be made through your GP practice reception. Booking Your Appointment If your GP practice doesn’t have any appointments available, they should offer you an appointment with the Extended Access Service. They will handle the booking process for you, ensuring that you receive the care you need in a timely manner. You may not see your usual health professional and your appointment will be at one of our locations within Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale. What to Expect The Extended Access Service has a range of appointment types available. These may include: GP Appointments: Consult with a General Practitioner to address your medical concerns. Long-Term Condition Reviews: Receive comprehensive assessments and support for chronic health conditions. Health Checks: Monitor your overall health and identify any potential issues early on. Cervical Smears: Vital screenings to detect early signs of cervical cancer. ECGs: Electrocardiograms to assess heart health. Phlebotomy (Blood Taking): Convenient blood tests to aid in diagnosis and treatment. Appointments are available during various times, including weekdays, evenings, weekends, and even bank holidays. Whether you prefer face-to-face consultations or telephone appointments, our clinicians are here to accommodate your needs. Why Enhanced Access Matters The significance of Enhanced Access Services extends beyond mere convenience. In an era where local GP practices are often inundated with patients, these services play a crucial role in alleviating pressure on healthcare providers. By offering extended hours and additional appointment options, Rochdale Health Alliance ensures that patients receive timely care without overwhelming their primary care physicians. Looking Ahead Stay tuned for more insights, updates, and invaluable information from Rochdale Health Alliance. Together, we're committed to delivering exceptional healthcare services that prioritise accessibility, quality, and patient-centric care. For further inquiries or to book your Enhanced Access appointment, don't hesitate to contact your GP practice. We're here to support your health and well-being every step of the way. 👨‍⚕️ Going The #ExtraMile Rochdale Health Alliance - NHS Backed and Trusted. #NHS #RochdaleHealthAlliance #PrimaryCareAcademy #Healthcare #Employability #HealthcareRecruitment

Hey there, lovely readers! Phoebe here, and I'm thrilled to share with you the incredible experiences I had during my weeks as a content creator apprentice at Rochdale Health Alliance and Primary Care Academy. Buckle up, because it was a week filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable moments! Let's dive right in. The week kicked off with a productive meeting alongside Jack, where we discussed upcoming projects and strategies. I was buzzing with excitement as I dove into editing the Peterloo footage on Premiere Pro, ensuring it was polished and ready to be shared with the world. But that was just the beginning! One of the highlights of the week was attending the Reframe Women in Tech event to create content for their social media, thanks to the amazing opportunity provided by Juice Academy. Surrounded by inspiring women in the tech industry, I felt empowered and motivated to push my boundaries even further. As a content creator, design work is a crucial part of my role. I spent dedicated time crafting eye-catching chaperone flyers and giving the SPLW flyer a little extra sparkle. It's all about making sure our message reaches and engages the right audience! Of course, my time at Juice Academy was invaluable I learned a lot of new skills that will be useful to my job role. I took the initiative to email all the apprentices in the office, proposing the idea of starting an apprentice series. Collaboration and support are at the heart of our journey, and I'm excited to see what amazing things we'll create together. But my week didn't stop there! I hit the ground running by printing off primary care event flyers and distributing them far and wide. Building up the anticipation, I made sure to advertise the countdown to the event, generating buzz and excitement among attendees. The pinnacle of the week was undoubtedly the primary care day event. Armed with my trusty camera, I captured the energy and spirit of the day through videos and photos. It was incredible to be a part of such a vibrant and dynamic event, and I can't wait to share the magic with all of you. At the end of the week, I juggled my academy work, creating a booklet for chaperone training, and putting the finishing touches on my blog post. It's been a whirlwind of growth and excitement, and I'm so grateful for the opportunities that have come my way. So, there you have it, my friends! A glimpse into my journey as a content creator apprentice!

Help us spread awareness this week... Let's talk about Eating Disorder Awareness in 2024! Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect people of all ages. It's important to raise awareness and provide support for those who are struggling. Today we are going to discuss the signs and symptoms of eating disorders, the impact they have on individuals and their loved ones, and the resources available for treatment and recovery. Signs of an eating disorder can vary depending on the specific type, but here are some common signs to look out for: 1. Drastic changes in weight, either gaining or losing a significant amount. 2. Obsession with body shape, weight, or appearance. 3. Restrictive eating habits, such as avoiding certain foods or food groups. 4. Excessive exercise or compulsive movement to burn calories. 5. Preoccupation with food, calories, and dieting. 6. Avoidance of social situations involving food. 7. Distorted body image or dissatisfaction with one's body. 8. Mood swings, irritability, or withdrawal from social activities. 9. Physical symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or fainting. 10. Development of rituals or strict rules around eating. It's important to remember that everyone's experience with eating disorders is unique, and not all signs may be present. If you or someone you know is displaying these signs, it's crucial to seek professional help and support. Coping with an eating disorder can be challenging, but there are strategies that can help. Here are a few tips: 1. Reach out for support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist who can provide understanding and guidance. 2. Seek professional help: Connect with a healthcare professional who specializes in eating disorders. They can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. 3. Build a support network: Join a support group or online community where you can share experiences and receive encouragement from others who have gone through similar struggles. 4. Practice self-care: Focus on self-care activities that promote physical and emotional well-being, such as engaging in hobbies, practicing relaxation techniques, and getting enough sleep. 5. Challenge negative thoughts: Work on identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs about food, body image, and self-worth. Replace them with positive and realistic affirmations. 6. Establish a balanced approach to food: Work with a registered dietitian to develop a balanced meal plan that meets your nutritional needs and promotes a healthy relationship with food. 7. Engage in enjoyable activities: Find activities that bring you joy and help distract you from negative thoughts or urges related to your eating disorder. Remember, recovery is a journey, and it's important to be patient and kind to yourself along the way. You don't have to face it alone. There is support available to help you through this. https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/eating-problems/causes-of-eating-problems/ https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/get-help-for-myself/i-need-support-now/helplines/ What impact can it have on you? Having an eating disorder can have a significant impact on various aspects of a person's life. It can affect their physical health, emotional well-being, and relationships. Here are some ways an eating disorder can affect someone: 1. Physical health: Eating disorders can lead to serious physical health complications. Depending on the type of eating disorder, it can result in weight loss or gain, malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and a weakened immune system. 2. Emotional well-being: Eating disorders often involve distorted body image and intense preoccupation with food, weight, and shape. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression. The constant focus on food and body can also impact self-esteem and overall emotional well-being. 3. Social and interpersonal relationships: Eating disorders can strain relationships with family, friends, and partners. The secrecy, isolation, and preoccupation with food and body image can make it challenging to engage in social activities or maintain healthy connections with others. 4. Academic and work performance: The physical and emotional effects of an eating disorder can impact concentration, energy levels, and overall performance in academic or work settings. It may be difficult to focus and meet responsibilities effectively. 5. Quality of life: Living with an eating disorder can significantly impact a person's overall quality of life. It can limit participation in enjoyable activities, create a constant state of distress, and lead to a sense of loss of control. What are the causes? There isn't a single cause for eating disorders, as they are complex conditions influenced by a combination of factors. Some potential factors that can contribute to the development of eating disorders include: 1. Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing an eating disorder, as certain individuals may be more susceptible than others. 2. Psychological factors: Psychological factors such as low self-esteem, perfectionism, body dissatisfaction, and a tendency towards obsessive or compulsive behaviours can contribute to the development of eating disorders. 3. Sociocultural influences: Societal pressures, cultural ideals of beauty, and media portrayals of thinness can play a role in the development of eating disorders, particularly in individuals who are more susceptible to these influences. 4. Environmental factors: Traumatic life events, such as abuse, bullying, or significant life changes, can contribute to the development of eating disorders in some individuals. 5. Family dynamics: Family factors, such as a history of eating disorders, dysfunctional family relationships, or a focus on appearance and weight, can contribute to the development of eating disorders. It's important to note that these factors can interact and influence each other, and not everyone who experiences these factors will develop an eating disorder. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it's essential to seek professional help from healthcare providers who specialize in eating disorder treatment. How to support someone with an eating disorder... To support someone with an eating disorder, it's important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Here are some ways you can provide support: 1. Educate yourself: Learn about eating disorders to better understand what the person is going through. This will help you offer informed support and avoid making judgmental or unhelpful comments. 2. Be a good listener: Create a safe and non-judgmental space for the person to express their feelings and concerns. Let them know that you are there to listen and support them, without trying to fix or solve their problems. 3. Avoid commenting on their appearance: Focus on their qualities, strengths, and achievements rather than their physical appearance or weight. This can help shift the focus away from body image concerns. 4. Encourage professional help: Suggest that they seek professional help from a therapist, counsellor, or healthcare provider who specializes in eating disorders. Offer to help them find resources or accompany them to appointments if they're comfortable with that. 5. Offer support with meals: If appropriate and with their consent, offer to cook or eat meals together. This can provide a supportive environment and help normalize eating behaviours. 6. Be patient and understanding: Recovery from an eating disorder takes time, and setbacks can happen. Be patient, supportive, and understanding throughout the process. 7. Avoid enabling behaviours: While it's important to be supportive, it's also crucial to avoid enabling disordered eating behaviours. Encourage healthy coping mechanisms and discourage harmful behaviours. Remember, supporting someone with an eating disorder can be challenging, so it's important to take care of your own well-being too. If you're unsure about how to help, encourage them to seek professional guidance.

Come have a catch-up with me and see what I've been up to in the last couple of weeks... Hey everyone! Phoebe here, and I wanted to share with you all, the incredible weeks I've had as a content creator apprentice. It's been non-stop action and creativity! First off, we wrapped up the Joy in Jan campaign, and I was thrilled to hand out all the booklets. But that was just the beginning! I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Gill at Peterloo to film some important smear test videos. We posted them on our TikTok and Instagram, providing an example of how a smear test goes and even did a Q&A. It was such a great way to spread awareness! Next, I started working on an event booklet for Primary Care Day in March. I also designed a fantastic social prescribing link worker flyer. And let me tell you, attending the Juice Academy was an absolute blast. I learned so much about using Premier Pro, and I'm excited to apply those skills to our future projects. Speaking of projects, I filmed a TikTok showcasing what you can find in our Primary Care Academy bag. It's a must-watch, trust me! And I didn't stop there. I also created a chaperone training flyer for an upcoming event in March. In terms of editing, I downloaded Premier Pro and used it to enhance our Peterloo videos. I added an introduction to the video about our organisation, making it even more impactful. And let's not forget about highlighting diversity within the Rochdale Health Alliance. It's such an important topic, and I'm glad we're spreading awareness about it. But wait, there's more! I attended a job fair with Ruth, where we created some awesome content and shared it on our Instagram and TikTok. We had a lot of people who were interested in working within Primary Care. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with others and showcase what we do. Last but not least, I created a job advertisement and shared it on our social media channels. I also scheduled some exciting content for the upcoming week and designed a flyer and leaflet for our next event in March for Primary Care Day, so keep an eye out. Also, of course, I made sure to keep sharing those Peterloo videos because they're so impactful. Phew! What a couple of weeks it has been. As a content creator apprentice, I'm constantly learning, creating, and making a difference. I can't wait to see what the future holds. Stay tuned for more updates! Until next time, Phoebe

Healthwatch in Greater Manchester are aware that there has been an increased demand for child and adolescent mental health services to assess and treat young people with emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties. Healthwatch in Greater Manchester understand through patient experiences, shared with our local offices, that this uplift in demand has impacted waiting times for children and young people to receive initial assessment by an NHS professional. To understand the impact of this issue, Healthwatch in Greater Manchester have launched a research project to obtain the experiences of parents, carers and young people who have accessed, or a trying to access child and adolescent mental health services. This research will also review experiences from health and care professionals who are faced with pressures of the increasing numbers of children and young people who seek their help whilst they continue to provide the highest quality of care. Heather Etheridge, Healthwatch in Greater Manchester, Independent Chair said: “Children and families having access to support, at the time they need it, is so important to us at Healthwatch. We want to ensure their experience and voice is heard across the whole of Greater Manchester (GM) and this joint project will allow us to do this.” The findings of this research will be made available to the public and will used to inform NHS decision-makers to support system wide learning. To share your experience, please follow the links below: Parents/Carers: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/04XCJG/ Children and young people: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/5AOYF6/ Professionals: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/JO28WR/ About Local Healthwatch Healthwatch Rochdale is the independent consumer champion for health and social care, representing the patient and public's voice in Rochdale. It helps to shape and improve local health and social care for local people and their communities. Healthwatch Rochdale is part of the Healthwatch national network, established by the Government to ensure local patients and users have a greater input to shaping and designing local services. To find out more go to www.healthwatchrochdale.org.uk About Healthwatch England Healthwatch England is the independent consumer champion for health and social care in England. The organisation has independent statutory powers, as stated in the Health and Social Care Act 2012, to ensure the consumer’s voice is heard and best practice is delivered in health and social care nationally. Healthwatch is also focused on providing leadership, guidance and support to the development of the Healthwatch network. To find out more please go to www.healthwatch.co.uk About Healthwatch in Greater Manchester: Healthwatch is a local and national health and social care champion, established and funded in each local authority area in England. There are 10 local Healthwatch in Greater Manchester who have come together to work as a network called Healthwatch in Greater Manchester.

Hello everyone! Welcome to my 15th week as a content creator apprentice, I'm so excited to share with you what progress I've made this week. It's been a week full of exciting experiences, focusing on gaining skills and growing in new opportunities. On Monday I looked at videos from Peterloo and smear test videos, booked a meeting for Tuesday for a podcast, and then organised the content for the week for the joy in January campaign. On Tuesday, I kicked off the week by attending the Primary Care Podcast workshop on Zoom. It was such an eye-opening experience to learn about the world of podcasting and how it can be a powerful platform for sharing knowledge and educating the public with professional healthcare advice. I left feeling inspired and excited to explore podcasting further. I dedicated my time to finishing up the abuse campaign leaflet. This project is about raising awareness and supporting those affected by abuse within GP surgeries. I hope when it gets out it displays a powerful message and educates the public. Wednesday and Thursday were a day filled with creativity and fun as you took on camera operations at Better Business Network. Being behind the scenes and capturing all the action must have been such a thrilling experience. My skills in camera operations continued to grow, and I felt like I was becoming a pro. I met some remarkable intelligent people, looking at the political sides of saving the planet and how businesses work and connect, it was a fantastic opportunity to network and I’d love to continue exploring occasions like this thanks to Juice Academy for helping me hear about this outstanding opportunity. Finally, on Friday, I  focused on my writing skills by working on my blog post. Which I hope you are all enjoying.  I shared our "Joy for Jan" post. This post radiated positivity and gave people something positive to do this January 2024. Then finish off my Juice Academy playbook work and complete my bud tasks. it’s been an extremely busy and productive week and I’ve loved every bit of it! My week was filled with growth, creativity, and making a positive impact. Hopefully, you will be captivated by my journey and inspired by your dedication. Hope to see you all next week!

What I've been up to in the last couple of weeks... Hey everyone! I hope you all had an amazing Christmas and New Year's celebration. As for me, I've been back at work, diving headfirst into some exciting projects that I can't wait to share with you all. One of the highlights of the past few weeks was arranging a smear video for educational purposes. It's been a fantastic opportunity to shed light on this important topic and show the public what it's really like. I believe that education is key, and I'm thrilled to be a part of this initiative. In addition to that, I've been working on various other projects that have allowed me to explore my creativity. I ordered gratitude journals and embarked on a "Joy for Jan" campaign, spreading positivity and encouraging others to embrace gratitude in their daily lives. Taking photos of the journals and sharing them on social media has been a great way to promote them and connect with others who are on a similar journey. But my work doesn't stop there! I've also been putting the finishing touches on an abuse campaign leaflet, aiming to raise awareness and provide support to those who need it. It's been a challenging but rewarding experience, knowing that I'm making a difference in people's lives. On a lighter note, I recently visited the local fire station and had a blast filming for an upcoming project. I'm on the lookout for cheap family layouts this January, and I can't wait to share my recommendations with all of you. After all, who doesn't love a fun-filled day with loved ones? Last but not least, I tackled the important topic of smear tests by filming a Q&A video. I wanted to address common questions and concerns, making this vital topic more accessible and less intimidating. It's all about spreading awareness and empowering others to take charge of their health. I'm truly grateful for the opportunities I've had as a content creator apprentice. From exploring the health benefits of plants to promoting diversity in the workplace, every project has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and adventures to come. Let's continue making a positive impact together!

8 different ways owning a plant benefits you... 1. Reduce Stress Plants have a remarkable ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Their presence alone can create a calming and soothing environment, helping to lower our stress levels. Taking care of plants can also be a mindful and therapeutic activity. It allows us to focus on the present moment, providing a sense of purpose and tranquillity. It is also known that plants help with our physical health by reducing our blood pressure and reducing fatigue and headaches by 20-25 per cent in one study. It has also been known that patients in hospital rooms with plants reported decreased post-operative pain. So, having plants around can be a wonderful natural remedy to help us unwind and find peace amidst our busy lives. 2. Plants Reduce Sound pollution Sound pollution, also known as noise pollution, refers to the excessive or disturbing noise that can have negative effects on our physical and mental well-being. It is caused by various sources such as traffic, construction, industrial activities, loud music, and even everyday activities. Sound pollution can lead to increased stress levels, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and even hearing loss in extreme cases. It can disrupt our daily lives and affect our overall quality of life. That's why plants can be great allies in reducing sound pollution. They act as natural sound barriers, absorbing and deflecting sound waves with their leaves and branches. This helps to dampen and muffle noise, creating a quieter environment. Whether it's the rustling of leaves or the thickness of their foliage, plants can help to create a more peaceful and serene atmosphere, making background noise less intrusive and more manageable. So, having plants around can bring a sense of calm and tranquillity to your surroundings while reducing the impact of sound pollution. 3. Increased Productivity It is a known fact that plants can have a positive impact on productivity in various ways. First, we have to take care of our plants by watering them and ensuring they are in the right environment they become our responsibility. They create a visually pleasing and calming environment that can help reduce stress and improve focus. When we feel more relaxed and at ease, we can work more efficiently and effectively. Additionally, plants can improve air quality by releasing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide, providing us with fresh and clean air to breathe. This can enhance our cognitive function and mental clarity, allowing us to stay alert and focused on our tasks. Lastly, the presence of plants in the workplace or study area can boost our mood and overall well-being, leading to increased motivation and productivity. So, incorporating plants into our surroundings can be a simple yet effective way to enhance productivity. 4. Better air quality Plants are amazing when it comes to improving air quality. They act as natural air purifiers by absorbing harmful gases and toxins while releasing fresh oxygen into the environment. Through a process called photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping to create a healthier and cleaner atmosphere. Additionally, plants can remove pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air, which are commonly found in indoor spaces. So, having plants around can significantly improve the air quality in your home or office, making it a more refreshing and pleasant place to be. 5. House plants improve sleep Having house plants in your bedroom can actually improve your sleep! Plants that help you sleep can be split into two categories, those that give off a pleasing or relaxing scent to help you sleep such as lavender, and those that purify the air and increase oxygen levels to improve overall health and sleep quality. They also release moisture, increasing humidity and reducing dryness, which can prevent discomfort like dry throat or skin. Furthermore, the presence of plants can create a calming and soothing atmosphere, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. This can help you unwind and prepare your mind and body for a restful night's sleep. So, consider adding some house plants to your bedroom for a more peaceful and rejuvenating sleep experience. 6. House plants improve mental health Plants are incredible for our mental health. They have a calming and soothing effect on our minds, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression. The presence of plants can create a sense of tranquillity and connection with nature, which can boost our mood and overall well-being. Taking care of plants can also be a therapeutic activity, allowing us to practice mindfulness and find joy in nurturing living things. So, having plants around can be a natural and beneficial way to support our mental health and create a positive environment. A survey of 1,000 people in the UK, conducted by Censuswide, found that since the pandemic: over 7 million say their mental health has benefitted from taking up gardening for the first time; over 3 million say their mental health has benefitted from moving out of an urban area to get access to outdoor space or a garden and; over 7 million say their mental health has benefitted from connecting with people outdoors, for example by speaking to their neighbours over the fence. Overall, nearly two-thirds of UK adults (63%) say spending time gardening or in nature helps their mental health, with respondents saying it makes them feel less stressed and that they benefit from taking in the sights, colours and smells of the outdoors. But it’s not just those with gardens who reap the rewards, 43% said looking after houseplants or growing food or plants in window boxes also boosted wellbeing. 7. Better our emotional and mental health Plants are like little mood boosters. They have a way of lifting our spirits and improving our emotional well-being. Just being around plants can make us feel more calm, relaxed, and connected to nature. They can help reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and even sadness. Taking care of plants can give us a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which can boost our self-esteem and overall mental health. Plus, their vibrant colours and beautiful blooms can bring joy and happiness to our surroundings. So, having plants around is like having a natural therapist who adds positivity and happiness to our lives. 8. House plants have medical benefits House plants can have some amazing medical benefits. They can help purify the air by removing toxins and releasing oxygen, which can improve respiratory health and reduce symptoms related to allergies and asthma. Some plants, like aloe vera, have healing properties and can be used to treat minor burns and cuts. Plants also have a calming effect on our minds, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Some herbal plants can help with digestion such as Mint, mint may help tamp down bloating, gas, and other problems after you eat. Common varieties you can grow in containers include peppermint and spearmint (essential in mint juleps). Basil, another herb for cooking, also can help calm your stomach. Try steeping the leaves in hot water. Additionally, being around plants has been shown to boost mood and overall well-being, which can have a positive impact on our mental health. So, having house plants not only adds beauty to our spaces but also provides us with some natural medical benefits. Become a plant owner today! Look in local stores, online stores or garden centres. #joyinjan Links: https://giraffeflowers.co.uk/collections/plants https://newbankgardencentre.com https://www.happyhouseplants.co.uk

Hey everyone Georgia here, we just realised that some of our h'Elf pictures for the competition have have gone missing. No worries we've found most of them now and the thief has been apprehended. However, because of this oversight, we are going to open the polls again so if you could please vote for your favourite picture that would be great.