Kingsway Surgery

26/11/2025

Winter weather warnings and staying warm

Feeling the chill this winter? Keeping warm is essential for your well-being and health. Here are a few tips on warming up when it’s cold outside:

• Reduce draughts where you can
• Layer up – wear lots of layers of thinner clothing
• Cover extremities – hats, gloves, thick socks and scarves
• Eat healthily with plenty of hot drinks
• Avoid alcohol
• Keep moving
Keeping the cold at bay can help you to stay healthy over these wintry months.
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/keep-well-this-winter/stay-healthy-in-winter/

If you’re retired and struggling with costs this winter, check if you’re eligible for the winter fuel payment. If you were born before 22nd September 1959, you could get help to pay your heating bills for the winter of 2025 to 2026.
https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment

Tip: Share any information about local warm banks and soup kitchens.

As we get older, changes to our bodies mean that cold weather and winter bugs affect us more than they used to. Age UK tell us how to stay healthy in winter.

23/11/2025

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, 25th November (may also be called White Ribbon Day)

Every ten minutes, a woman is killed. International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women raises awareness about all forms of violence against women. Wear orange as a bright and optimistic colour; this represents hope and a future free from violence against women and girls.

Learn more about what gender-based violence is, and how the British Red Cross is working with survivors

20/11/2025

As the weather turns colder, we are reminding people about the Sefton network of ‘Warm Spaces’ where people can gather for free in a safe, warm place to connect with others and maybe enjoy a hot drink and food.

Warm Spaces are located at a range of venues across the borough including libraries, community centres and community hubs. They offer a warm welcome and are free to use for anyone feeling lonely or struggling with the cost of living.

All ‘Warm Spaces’ are heated, safe and friendly places where you can comfortably spend time reading, studying or chatting with others.

‘Enhanced hub’ Warm Spaces, can also offer hot drinks and food, activities, and other services such as free Wi-Fi.

You can find out more including the full Warm Spaces calendar at Sefton.cvs.org/warmspaces

19/11/2025

Carers’ rights, 20th November

Carers Rights Day is about raising awareness of the rights that the UK’s 5.8 million unpaid carers are entitled to – to help them get the support they need and the recognition they deserve. This year, the theme is ‘Know your rights, use your rights’. As a carer, knowing your rights empowers you and helps you to reach the support you so need, to reduce the pressure when you’re caring for others.
https://www.carersuk.org/news-and-campaigns/our-campaigns/carers-rights-day/

Being a carer is hard. There are no set hours and you’re often caring for someone close to you.
Every day, 12,000 people become unpaid carers for a partner, family member or friend. They may not even view themselves as carers. But who looks after you when you’re looking after someone else? All carers deserve to understand their rights and be supported to use them if they wish. Discover more here: https://www.carersuk.org/news-and-campaigns/our-campaigns/carers-rights-day/

Hint: Share any processes you have for carers to register with you at the practice and any local groups, resources, etc.

Carers Rights Day is about raising awareness of the rights the UK’s 5.8 million unpaid carers are entitled to, and to help them get the support they need and the recognition they deserve.

18/11/2025

Trigger Warning: This post discusses su***de and mental health, which may be distressing for some readers. Please take care of yourself while reading and reach out for support if needed.

Survivors of su***de loss, 19th November

This day shines a light on those forever changed by losing someone to su***de.

In the UK, around 6,000 people die by su***de every year – and research shows that around 147 people are affected by every single loss. The grief is deep, complex and long-lasting.

It's important to know you're not alone. https://www.papyrus-uk.org/su***de-bereavement-support/

Survivors of Bereavement is a UK peer-led support to adults impacted by su***de loss. Call for support 0300 111 5065, the Support Line is open everyday 9am-7pm.

Su***de bereavement is a totally unique kind of grief. At PAPYRUS we understand the support that loved ones need when they are bereaved by su***de.

17/11/2025

Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week, 18th to 24th November

Not every illness needs antibiotics. Resistance to antibiotics is a growing concern, so help to preserve their efficacy for when they’re really needed!

• Always take antibiotics as prescribed
• Never miss a dose
• Complete a course in full
• Vaccinate yourself and your family
Keep antibiotics for when they’re really needed. You could save a life.

16/11/2025

Some NHS services will be affected due to strike action.

Please continue to attend your GP and dental appointments, unless you are contacted and told otherwise.

16/11/2025

International Men’s Day, 19th November

Today we celebrate men in our families, communities and society, and highlight some of the social issues that men and boys face. From boys struggling at school to men struggling with their mental health.

Did you know:

• Men are less likely to seek help for physical or mental health issues
• Su***de is one of the leading causes of death for men under the age of 50 in the UK
• Promoting healthy role models, respect and equality benefits everyone

Start the conversation this International Men’s Day.

International Men's Day in the UK is on 19 November. Find our more on the website.

16/11/2025

🔊 Parent Carers - Everything you need to know about CAMHS!

We're lucky enough to be joined by CAMHS Lead Vicky Killen and mental health professionals across Sefton. Not only will you get the full breakdown on how CAMHS can help you but there'll also be plenty of chances to ask your own questions whilst of course there'll be the usual hot drinks and biscuits!

Places are limited, so please book through the QR Code or here: https://sefton-carers.org.uk/camhs-event-20-11-2025/

We look forward to see you on:

📅 Thursday 20th November
🕥 10:30am - 12:30pm
📍 Sefton Carers Centre, South Road, Waterloo, L22 5PE

16/11/2025

🛒 If you're finding it difficult to afford everyday essentials, food banks across Sefton are here to help, offering access to food, toiletries, and household items.

Donations are always welcome if you're able to give.

Popular items include:
🥛 UHT or powdered milk
🧃 Fruit juice
☕ Tea bags or coffee
🍝 Rice and pasta
…and more.

📍 Find your nearest food bank at www.sefton.gov.uk/foodbank

16/11/2025

Struggling with a mental health crisis? 💭

If you or someone close to you needs urgent support, call and select the mental health option for immediate help ☎

https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/urgent-help

16/11/2025

National Self-Care Week, 17th to 23rd November

It’s Self-Care Week, and your annual reminder to set aside some time for you.

We’re living longer lives, but not necessarily healthier, with chronic conditions on the rise. Managing stress, well-being and physical health all contribute to a healthy mind and body.

Try some of these ideas:
https://nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/training-support/healthcare-science-self-care-handbook/self-care-ideas-to-get-you-started/

Demand for health services has risen significantly in recent years, with long-term conditions growing. Preventive health is key to a healthier future for both your mental and physical well-being, and self-care is at the heart of this.

Try these self-care ideas:

• Take a mindful walk
• Try meditation
• Set boundaries – it’s okay to say no
• Speak to someone if you’re struggling
• Do one thing that brings you joy

Self-care looks different for everyone – find what works for you.

Hint: Share local groups – meditation, self-care, mindfulness – and it’s always helpful to add crisis lines for anyone who’s struggling.

Ideas to help you take care of your mind, body and soul.