Benchill Medical Practice

25/11/2025

Help Shape the Future of Medicine! 🩺 Volunteer for Medical Student Exams

MANCHESTER UNIVERSITY is looking for community members to play a vital role in training the next generation of doctors.
We're inviting real people to participate in clinical exams for medical students. Your involvement provides invaluable real-world experience for students, helping them become better, more empathetic practitioners.

No experience needed! You don't need any prior experience – just your willingness to help. Sessions can be half or full-day, and full support and reimbursement for your time and travel will be provided.

We are particularly keen to hear from volunteers with the following conditions, as your unique experiences are incredibly valuable for student learning:

Skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis, seborrhoeic wart)
Neck lump (e.g., enlarged thyroid)
Parkinson’s disease
Stroke
Kyphosis or scoliosis
Axial spondyloarthritis/ankylosing spondylitis
Osteoarthritis (involvement of hands, knees, feet, elbows, shoulders, hips)
Psoriatic arthritis (hand or foot involvement)
Rheumatoid arthritis (hand or foot involvement)
Joint replacement
Nerve damage to the hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy)
Valvular heart conditions (e.g., aortic stenosis)
Irregular heart rate (Atrial fibrillation/Arrhythmia)
Circulation problems in the legs (peripheral vascular disease)
Pulmonary fibrosis
COPD

If you have one of these conditions, or simply want to contribute. Please complete the following online form

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=B8tSwU5hu0qBivA1z6kad-SytEmdmTpGrOY70VRqOw5UNk43NDBBQUg5TVRPOUZCTklFVFI4QUFZOSQlQCN0PWcu

Let's make a difference together!

24/11/2025

Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Early Detection Saves Lives

Did you know lung cancer can affect anyone—it's not just smokers who are at risk? 🚭 This month, we’re raising awareness about lung cancer, its symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis. 🩺

Understanding the signs can make a big difference. Watch this helpful video to learn more about the two types of lung cancer, including symptoms, testing, stages, and treatment options:
🎥 Watch Now: Understanding Lung Cancer

If you experience any of the following symptoms for more than three weeks, it’s important to see your GP:

• Persistent cough
• Coughing up blood
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
• Repeated chest infections

Don't wait—early detection can save lives! 💙 If you're concerned, reach out to your GP today.

For more information on lung cancer, visit:
Macmillan: Lung Cancer Symptoms

23/11/2025

🦠 It’s Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week! (18th–24th November) 🦠

Did you know that not every illness requires antibiotics? 🧐 Overusing or misusing antibiotics is a growing concern and can lead to antimicrobial resistance — which means antibiotics may not work when we need them most. 😔

💊 Here’s how YOU can help protect antibiotics for future generations:

✔️ Always take antibiotics exactly as prescribed
✔️ Never skip a dose – finish the full course
✔️ Make sure you and your family are vaccinated to help prevent infections
✔️ Keep antibiotics for when they’re really needed – you could save a life!

Let’s all do our part to preserve the power of antibiotics for the times when they’re most critical. 💪

💡 Learn more about how you can help prevent antimicrobial resistance!
📲 NHS Antibiotics Information

Together, we can keep antibiotics working for everyone! 🙌

22/11/2025

🍬 It’s Sugar Awareness Week (17–23 November)! 🍬

Did you know that 9 out of 10 children and 4 out of 5 adults in the UK are eating more sugar than recommended? This can increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay — starting from childhood. 😱

This week is all about raising awareness and making informed choices about what we eat. The theme is: "Cutting Through the Sweet Talk: What You See Isn’t What You Eat." 🧐

🚨 Here’s how you can reduce your sugar intake:
• 🍹 Swap sugary drinks for water
• 🏷️ Always read the label – don’t be fooled by marketing like ‘smart snacking’
• 🍏 Choose whole, unprocessed snacks
• 📱 Use the NHS Food Scanner app to check food labels in more detail: NHS Food Scanner App

Let’s all make healthier choices and raise awareness about the hidden sugars in our food. 🍎

Want to learn more? Check out this helpful factsheet: Sugar Awareness Factsheet

What’s your go-to healthy snack? Share with us in the comments! 💬

21/11/2025

🌿 It’s National Self-Care Week! (17–23 November) 🌿
Your gentle reminder to pause… breathe… and take a little time just for you. 💚

We’re all living longer, but not always healthier — long-term conditions and stress are on the rise. Looking after your mental and physical well-being now can make a big difference later.

So this week, why not try a self-care reset? Here are a few simple ideas to get you started:

✨ Self-Care Ideas You Can Try Today:
• 🚶‍♀️ Take a mindful walk
• 🧘 Try a short meditation
• 🚫 Set boundaries – it’s okay to say no!
• 💬 Talk to someone if you’re struggling
• 💛 Do one thing that brings you joy

Everyone’s version of self-care is different — find what works best for you.

🍃 Want more inspiration?
Check out this great list of self-care ideas:
👉 https://nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/training-s...-handbook/self-care-ideas-to-get-you-started/

Taking small steps today can lead to a healthier tomorrow. 💚
How will you be practicing self-care this week? Tell us in the comments! 💬✨

21/11/2025

❄️ Winter Weather Warning: Stay Warm, Stay Healthy! ❄️

As the cold weather sets in, it’s important to take care of yourself and stay warm. Here are a few simple tips to help you stay cozy and safe this winter:

🧣 Layer Up – Wear lots of thin layers to trap warmth.
🧤 Cover Extremities – Don’t forget hats, gloves, thick socks, and scarves!
🍲 Eat Well & Drink Hot – Keep your body fueled with healthy meals and plenty of warm drinks.
🚶‍♂️ Keep Moving – Try to stay active to keep your blood flowing.
❌ Avoid Alcohol – It might feel warm, but alcohol can lower your body temperature.
🌬️ Reduce Draughts – Seal gaps and block cold drafts from windows and doors.

Taking these simple steps can help you stay well this winter! ❄️💪

👉 Stay Healthy in Winter – https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information...keep-well-this-winter/stay-healthy-in-winter/

💡 Struggling with heating bills? If you're retired and born before 22nd September 1959, you may be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment to help with heating costs this winter.

Check if you're eligible here: Winter Fuel Payment – Gov.uk

Stay safe and warm, everyone! 🧣💙

20/11/2025

🎗️ Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month 💜 🗓️ World Pancreatic Cancer Day – 20th November 2025

Let’s turn the UK purple 💡 to shine a light on one of the deadliest cancers. Whether you're honoring a loved one, raising awareness, or simply standing in solidarity — join Purple Lights and help make a difference. 👉 purplelightsuk.org

🔍 Know the signs. Save a life. Pancreatic cancer is often silent in its early stages. Recognizing symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

🚨 Symptoms to watch for:

🎗️ Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month 💜 🗓️ World Pancreatic Cancer Day – 20th November 2025

Let’s turn the UK purple 💡 to shine a light on one of the deadliest cancers. Whether you're honoring a loved one, raising awareness, or simply standing in solidarity — join Purple Lights and help make a difference. 👉 purplelightsuk.org

🔍 Know the signs. Save a life. Pancreatic cancer is often silent in its early stages. Recognizing symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

🚨 Symptoms to watch for:

🔹Unexplained upper abdominal pain

🔹Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite

🔹Indigestion, bloating, or early fullness after small meals

🔹Nausea or vomiting (especially after fatty foods)

🔹Fatigue or general weakness

If you're concerned, make an appointment using our online request form.

💜 Together, we can light the way to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.

Purple Lights for pancreatic cancerPurple Lights for pancreatic cancer is an annual campaign in the UK that takes place duringNovember’s Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and supports the global awareness initiative,World Pancreatic Cancer Day, taking place on Thursday 20th November 2025. Light up...

13/11/2025

🟧𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆'𝗿𝗲 𝘂𝗻𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹?😥🟧You're not alone! At BENCHILL MEDICAL PRACTICE, we know how precious our babies and children are, and how concerning it can be when they're not feeling their best.
That's why we're sharing a fantastic resource: The Little Orange Book! 🧡
This invaluable guide is packed with expert advice and practical tips on how to manage common illnesses and problems that babies and young children (up to 5 years old) often experience. It also includes vital information on more serious conditions, helping you know what to look out for and when to get help.
We hope you find it incredibly useful for those moments when you need a little extra guidance.

Download your free copy today:
https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/sites/default/files/Little-Orange-Book.pdf?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhaz0CMTAAYnJpZBEwbnJkZnlncmhmYzhaZnI3ZXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4xYN6DhuLDuuN-U_J_XuQXPi4cLEPY1k5KLNQzu_Zlb-HiYg1VbCdnmJQpzQ_aem_Lmv4jaQ_24w_EAGJcMGmfA


From the team at BENCHILL MEDICAL PRACTICE.

13/11/2025

❄️ Winter Weather Tips: Stay Warm & Well 🧣

Feeling the chill? Staying warm is vital for your health and well-being during the colder months. Here are some simple ways to beat the cold:

🧥 Block draughts where you can
🧦 Layer up with thin, warm clothing
🧤 Cover your extremities – hats, gloves, scarves, thick socks
🍲 Eat well and enjoy plenty of hot drinks
🚫 Avoid alcohol – it can make you feel colder
🏃‍♂️ Keep moving to stay warm

Keeping the cold at bay helps you stay healthy all winter long! 👉 More winter wellness tips from Age UK

💡 If you're retired and worried about heating costs, you might be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment. If you were born before 22 September 1959, you could get help with your heating bills for winter 2025–2026. 👉 Check your eligibility here

Stay warm, stay safe! 💙

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12/11/2025

👀 Who’s Seeing Us? Let’s Find Out!

We’re curious… who’s out there scrolling past our posts? If you’re seeing this, give us a wave! 👋

💬 Drop a comment with your favourite emoji 👍 Like this post if you’ve visited us recently 📍Tell us where you’re seeing this from — Benchill, Woodhouse Park or beyond?

Your interaction helps us reach more of our patients and keep our community informed. Let’s make health updates more visible together!

11/11/2025

🎉 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀! 𝗢𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗧𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝗜𝗻!🎉
A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our Friends and Family Test! Your valuable feedback is so important to us at BENCHILL MEDICAL PRACTICE.

We're delighted to share the fantastic responses we've received from our latest test results. It's wonderful to see your kind words about our dedicated team and the care you receive. Your positive comments truly motivate us!

We also carefully review all suggestions for improvement and are continuously working to enhance your experience and the services we provide. Your voice helps us grow and evolve.

Thank you for continuing to share your thoughts – it genuinely helps us understand what we're doing well and where we can improve. If you haven't already, please do complete the Friends and Family Test after your next visit!

From the team at BENCHILL MEDICAL PRACTICE.

11/11/2025

🕊️ Armistice Day – Honouring Peace and Sacrifice 🕊️

On this day, we remember the moment the guns fell silent — the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month — marking the end of the First World War.

At Benchill Medical Practice, we pause to honour the memory of those who gave their lives in war and conflict, and those who returned forever changed. Their courage shaped the world we live in today.

Armistice Day is not only a time to reflect on the past, but a call to cherish peace, protect it, and never take it for granted.

We will observe a two-minute silence at 11am, joining millions across the country in quiet remembrance.

Let us remember not just the cost of war, but the value of peace. Lest we forget. 🌺