Making sense of Allergies

What allergies are (and aren’t) and the evidence for causes and treatments.
Allergies are frustrating and sometimes frightening conditions and they seem to be on the rise in developed countries. View information with some of the scientific evidence that we know about allergies.

Website: www.senseaboutscience.org

North West Allergy Network

The Doctor’s, Nurses and other health care professionals of the North West Allergy Network have worked together to produce a series of documents for patients with advice and guidance on the management of allergies. All of the documents have been reviewed by specialist doctors and nurses and approved for use.

Website: www.allergynorthwest.nhs.uk

Oral Allergy Syndrome

A common but not a dangerous form of allergy that occurs to certain fruits, often causing itchy mouth and ears.

Website: www.allergynorthwest.nhs.uk

Eczema and Allergy

Many people wonder about the link between eczema and allergies. This leaflet explains a bit more.

Website: www.allergynorthwest.nhs.uk

COVID-19 Carers Emergency Fund

Funding has been made available in Manchester to support carers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Apply online for cash grants, help with furniture and white goods and with gas and electric bills.

Website: www.secure.manchester.gov.uk

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Advice for Carers

If you provide unpaid care to friends or family there is information and support available.

Manchester Telephone: 0800 234 6123

Trafford Telephone: 0300 330 9073

Website: www.gov.uk

Are you a carer?

A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without their support.

Anyone could be a carer – a 15-year-old girl looking after a parent with an alcohol problem, a 40-year-old man caring for his partner who has terminal cancer, or an 80-year-old woman looking after her husband who has Alzheimer’s disease.

Carers Trust – What is a carer?

Let us know if you are a carer

Free Carer’s Assessment

If you provide unpaid care for a friend or relative, you are entitled to a free assessment of your own needs as a carer from the council. You will be entitled to an assessment regardless of the amount or type of care you provide, your financial means or your level of need for support. You don’t necessarily have to live with the person you are looking after or be caring full-time to have an assessment. You may be juggling work and care and this is having a big impact on your life.

Manchester City Council – Caring for someone

Trafford Carers Centre – Self Assessment

Manchester Advocacy Hub – Support for carers

Free Needs Assessment

Needs assessments are for adults (18 years of age or over) who may need help because of a disability, ill health or old age. Anyone who appears to have a need for care or support can have a needs assessment, regardless of the ‘level’ of those needs or the person’s financial resources. Even if you as the carer are providing all the care the person needs, they are still entitled to an assessment.

Manchester

Telephone: 0161 234 5001

Website: www.manchester.gov.uk

Trafford

Telephone: 0161 912 5199

Website: www.trafforddirectory.co.uk

Manchester Carers Network

Manchester Carers Network offer a range of workshops and other opportunities for carers to find information and develop their skills.

Facebook: @manchestercarersnetwork

Twitter: @Carers_HUB

Website: www.manchestercarersnetwork.org.uk

Manchester Carers Centre

Provides free community services for carers in Manchester this includes: information & advice, emotional support & practical help, community drop-ins to meet other carers, breaks & social activities and access to grants and training.

Telephone: 0161 272 7270

Website: www.manchestercarers.org.uk

Manchester Carers Forum

Regardless of whether you care for someone for just one hour per week or 24 hours per day, every day, Manchester Carers Forum is here to help.

They can offer home visits if you would prefer to talk to someone face to face.

Telephone: 0161 819 2226

Website: www.manchestercarersforum.org.uk

Trafford Carers Centre

Trafford Carers Centre supports unpaid carers looking after someone who lives in the Trafford area, including help applying for a Carer’s Assessment by Trafford Council.

Telephone: 0161 848 2400

Website: www.traffordcarerscentre.org.uk

Carers Trust Trafford

Carers Trust in Trafford offers regular breaks for carers in the Trafford area from a minimum of two hours per week. “We simply take over the role of the carer and care for your loved one whilst you take some time to be yourself and take a well earned break.”

Telephone: 0161 905 1986

Website: www.gmcarerstrust.org.uk

Young Carers

Lots of young people are carers without realising it – often for a family member such as a brother or sister, parent or an older relative. Sometimes it can be for a partner or friend who is ill, frail, has a disability, has a mental health concern or has a drug (or alcohol) addiction.

Manchester City Council

Young Adult Carers (16-25yrs)

Himmat Support Centre

A support centre for carers of people with learning disabilities from a South Asian background.

Telephone: 0161 248 0425

Website: www.himmat.org.uk

Talbot House

Talbot House supports parents and carers of people who have learning disabilities in Manchester.

Website: www.talbot-house.org.uk

Trafford Mencap

Trafford Mencap is a charity that promotes equality for people with a learning disability – helping with new opportunities, new friends, and to feel valued and safe in the community.

Telephone: 0161 928 5678

Website: www.traffordmencap.org.uk

Being There

Being There is a small charity with support services in Manchester and Trafford providing emotional support and home-based practical help to people with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses, along with those closest to them, such as family, friends and carers.

Telephone: 0845 123 23 29

Website: www.beingthere.org.uk

ACCG - African Caribbean Care Group

The ACCG delivers Day Care and Home Care services and aims to provide a service to the whole family, not just the person being cared for.

Telephone: 0161 226 6334

Website: www.accg.org.uk

The African & Caribbean Mental Health Service

IFEOMA is a carers group that meets on the first Thursday of every month at the Windrush Millenium Centre: support, trips, short breaks, information and advice, respite, alternative treatments, practical help.

Telephone: 0161 226 9562

Website: www.acmh-services.co.uk

Email: admin@acmhs-blackmentalhealth.org.uk

Facebook: @acmhsmanchester

Further information

Carers Trust national website

Carers UK national website

Manchester City Council Carers Toolkit

That Counts!

It doesn’t have to be great feats of endurance, running marathons or pumping iron, you can choose your own moves! It could be dancing around the kitchen, jumping in puddles with the kids, walking the dog or running for the bus. However you move, as long as you move more, it all counts. Moving for just 30 minutes throughout the day has so many benefits.

Website: www.thatcounts.co.uk

MCRactive - Get active in Manchester

The site is delivered through a collaboration and partnership between Manchester City Council and Eastlands Trust. Two like-minded and passionate organisations who share a vision, passion and commitment for this great city.

Website: www.mcractive.com

Manchester Health Walks

The Manchester Health walks are free, open to all and are very accessible. We are keen to support people with long term health conditions, those looking to get and keep active and people affected by cancer on our walks.

Website: www.walkingforhealth.org.uk

Park Lives

From buggy bootcamp, lunchtime workout, walk to run, family circuits, tai chi… FREE activities in our local parks with several regularly on at Alexandra Park, Whalley Range.

Website: www.parklives.com

Zion & Kath Locke Centres

Community centres with activities, courses and classes including kundalini yoga and Qigong.

Zion Centre

Kath Locke Centre

Timetable of activities

Want to get more active?

Get help and advice from NHS including 10 Minute workouts, 12 week fitness plan, running & cycling for beginners and much more.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Manchester Girls Can

Manchester Girls Can is for all Manchester Women who fancy giving it a go, no matter how good they are or how they look! Fear of judgement is stopping many of us from taking part in exercise but as thousands of women across Manchester are proving, it really doesn’t have to.

Website: www.manchestergirlscan.co.uk

Dancing, Gardening, Yoga and more

There are many local groups that involve physical activity and which welcome newcomers. Why not rekindle an old hobby or sport, or try something new? Singing is exercise too! Most places welcome beginners so put the fear aside! Doing something new can be life-changing. Here is just a sample of some local groups:

Solar Salsa – Cuban Salsa classes Tuesdays and Thursday evenings upstairs at The Royal Oak

Open Voice Community Choir – Open Voice is an friendly open choir of about 50 members who songs together from all over the world in a capella harmony. No experience necessary. Wednesdays 7.30-9pm at St Margaret’s Church, Whalley Range

Chorlton Ladies Singing Group – sing contemporary songs and meet new people. No need to book, simply turn up and give it a go! Mondays 7-8.30pm upstairs at The Lloyds, Chorlton.

Community Gardening  – we have a few local community gardens, Moss Side Community Allotment (Bowes Street, Moss Side), Riverbank Community Garden (Near Barlow Moor Road Tram stop) that meet regularly from spring to autumn on Tuesday evenings. “We are very informal and just meet up, do some weeding, planting and harvesting and share any harvest”, Chorlton Good Neighbours Community Garden (Wilbraham St Ninians Church, Chorlton), St Margaret’s Forever Community Garden (Brantingham Road, Whalley Range) “We meet every Saturday morning 11-1pm weather permitting and in the autumn we have orchard days”, Orchard49 (Seymore Grove Allotments).

“Below are just a few of the yoga classes in and around this area:
Lishi Tai Chi and Yoga
One Yoga Studio 
The Yoga Rooms
Yoga Up
Yoga with Hannah

Beginners Tai Chi and Qi Gong in Chorlton, contact Karen on 07525 054 432 or email karen@meiquan.co.uk

Beginners Tai Chi at Firswood Community Centre contact John or Vicky 0161 860 4111 or 07507 773717

Art Class, St Margaret’s Social Centre, Brantingham Road M21 0TT every Tuesday 10-12.30pm open to everyone.
Contact John on 07503 325645 or email jon.carroll61@gmail.com

Macmillan Connections South Manchester Walks

A range of walks for people affected by cancer and their friends and families. Walks are free and friendly.

Website: www.walkingforhealth.org.uk

Meetup

Meetup is a social website collection of get-togethers and you can search for local Manchester Meetups in topics including sport and activity. It is organised around one simple idea: when we get together and do the things that matter to us, we’re at our best. Just getting together with others helps us to feel well.

Website: www.meetup.com

NHS Weekly Activity Guidance

View information on physical activity guidelines.

Website: www.nhs.uk

NHS Couch to 5k

Find out more and download the nine-week set of Couch to 5K podcasts.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Little Box Gym

There is a local family-run community gym near St Werburgh’s Road tram stop: “The Gym For People Who Don’t Do Gyms”

Website: www.littleboxgym.com

Understanding Blood Pressure

Your diet, exercise levels and weight have a real effect on your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, you can start lowering blood pressure today by eating more healthily and being more active.

Blood  Pressure Monitoring Explained

Website: www.bloodpressureuk.org

High blood pressure

View information on high blood pressure (hypertension) symptoms, causes and if you need to lower your blood pressure.

• NHS Information 
• Patient Info
• Decision Aid about treatment options

Blood pressure monitoring

You may be asked to record your blood pressure at home as this gives a more accurate indication of your normal blood pressure than a one-off reading when you come to the GP surgery.

More information

Clinic and home treatment targets

Home blood pressure diary

Submit your readings online

Fever in Children

A fever is a high temperature. As a general rule, a temperature of 38ºC (100.4ºF) or above is a fever.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Fever In Children leaflet

Coughs in Children

This leaflet contains information about how to look after a child who has a cough (not due to asthma).

Coughs in Children leaflet

Children's Eczema

An NHS nurse was asked what advice they’d give to parents of children with Eczema – and this is what they said.

Coughs in Children leaflet

Infant Feeding

All babies feed differently and all will have their different habits and patterns. This is why it’s quite difficult to say what is normal this leaflet contains an explanation of the main sorts of feeding problems and what they mean.

Instant Feeding leaflet

Children’s Centres

There are a number of children’s centres across Manchester that offer a variety of friendly activities, events, help and support to families of children aged 0 to 5 years with advice on parenting, local childcare options and access to specialist services for families, baby massage sessions, breastfeeding support, stay and play opportunities.

Find your nearest children’s centre

Nutrition for Infants and Children

A great resource page with information about diet for infants and children, including weaning information, weaning for a vegetarian baby, and for babies and toddlers using an Asian Diet.

Website: www.lnds.nhs.uk

Is my child too ill for school?

When your child is unwell, it can be hard deciding whether to keep them off school. These simple guidelines should help.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is a common chest infection in young children. It usually occurs in children under 12 months of age. To find out more about the signs and symptoms and how to manage it:

Bronchiolitis leaflet – Central Manchester Children’s Hospital

Early Help

Every family has its ups and downs. Being a parent is hard work and there is nothing to be ashamed of in asking for help. Manchester’s Early Help service could help in a number of ways. Just talk to your GP, Health Visitor or other professional working with your family for a referral, or view the following information.

Could you do with extra support?

Early Help For Parents & Young People Services Directory

Child vaccinations (immunisations)

One of the most important things that a parent can do for their child is to make sure that they have all their routine childhood vaccinations. Please talk to your GP, Practice Nurse, or Health Visitor if you have any questions or worries about vaccinations.

Most of the routine childhood vaccinations are given at the practice by the Practice Nurse. Please bring your child’s Red Book when you come to an appointment. Children in Manchester are also routinely offered the BCG vaccination shortly after birth to protect against tuberculosis – you will be invited by the Health Visitor service for this.

See the NHS Vaccination Schedule

Manchester Choose Well information

Vaccine Knowledge Project

Health Visitors

Manchester Health Visiting Service offers comprehensive advice and support to parents and carers of children from pre-birth to four and a half years. A health visitor is a registered nurse or midwife with specialist additional qualifications in child, family and public health who offers a range of advice and information on feeding, parenting skills, sleeping and healthy eating and a whole lot more.

Facebook: @MFThealthvisiting

Website: www.mft.nhs.uk

CHAMP

Children’s Health and Monitoring Programme (CHAMP) is a Manchester initiative that helps parents and carers understand their children’s growth and to help them achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle. You can view and record your child’s measurements, track your child’s progress and access information and support to keep your family healthy.

Website: www.champ.cmft.nhs.uk

Common childhood illnesses

All children experience common illnesses like coughs, colds and chickenpox and having a fever is often a normal part of this.

Treating your child’s illness yourself or with advice and medicines from your local pharmacy can often be the easiest and quickest way to help your child feel better. Be prepared by keeping at home what you need, for example paracetamol, a digital thermometer and plasters.

Antibiotics are not needed for every illness and using them unnecessarily means they are less likely to work when we need them and could expose your child to side effects.

Chicken Pox

Diarrhoea and vomiting

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease

Headlice

Slapped Cheek Syndrome

Childhood illness visual guide

Find out more about for your baby or child

British Heart Foundation

View information on cholesterol, its causes and how you can reduce your cholesterol level.

Website: www.bhf.org.uk

Cholesterol - Patient.info

View information on cholesterol, risk factors and treatments available to reduce the risk.

Cholesterol Information

Statins and Other Lipid-lowering Medicines

Talking Therapies

Counselling is a process in which a person works closely with a counsellor on issues that may be causing distress in their lives. Counselling provides an opportunity to talk about problems and feelings, in an environment which is safe and confidential.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Self Help Free Counselling

If you are affected by relationship issues, family problems or abuse issues, this service gives you the opportunity to see a counselling practitioner to discuss these matters in more details and help improve your situation.

Website: www.selfhelpservices.org.uk

Referral Forms: www.iaptportal.co.uk/manshs.html

Young Person’s eTherapy Service

A free online interactive eTherapy Service for 11 – 18 year olds to help with how thoughts have an impact on feelings, physical symptoms and behaviours.

Website: www.selfhelpservices.org.uk

Counselling Directory

A nationwide database of private qualified counsellors and psychotherapists.

Website: www.counselling-directory.org.uk

Gaddum Centre Adult Counselling

A counselling service based at Gaddum House in Manchester, offering therapy for common mental health conditions. This service can be accessed by anyone, regardless of locations and accepts self-referrals, as well as referrals from GP/professionals/family members.

Telephone: 0161 834 6069

Website: www.gaddumcentre.co.uk

The Counselling and Family Centre

Offers counselling to adult individuals, couples, families, and to children and young people from 5 years old.

Website: www.thecfc.org.uk

LGBT Foundation

LGBT Foundation has been providing a talking therapies service to the LGBT communities of the North West for over a decade with free sessions to individuals and couples.

Telephone: 0345 3 30 30 30 

Website: www.lgbt.foundation.co.uk

CDI Community Counselling Service

A community organisation offering person centred counselling to address emotional and mental health needs of people in Manchester.

Telephone: 0161 881 0007

Website: www.cdimanchester.org.uk

Email: cdi256@gmail.com

The African and Caribbean Mental Health Service

Provides person-centred health and social care to the African Caribbean community in Manchester, Trafford and the surrounding areas. Professional counsellor available to look at problem areas in your life and find ways of dealing with them. Contact Dawn:

Telephone: 0161 226 9562

Website: www.acmh-services.co.uk

Email: admin@acmhs-blackmentalhealth.org.uk

Facebook: @acmhsmanchester

Indian Senior Citizen’s Centre

Offering a large range of activities at centre that offer edcuational, fitness, social and above all fun events for all.

Website: www.iscc-manchester.org

Kwan Wai (Wai Yin Chinese Centre)

Funded by Manchester Social Services Department, services are free to any resident of Manchester. Able to provide services to anybody in the Greater Manchester area who is referred and funded by social services.

Website: www.waiyin.org.uk

Yaran North West Iranian Farsi Support

Yaran North West CIC offers advocacy, advice support and Psychological services to all Middle Eastern and Farsi Speaking residents in Greater Manchester.

Facebook: @YARAN.CIC

Further Contacts

The Kath Locke Centre CFC Counselling
Telephone: 455 0211

Age UK Manchester Counselling Service 60+
Telephone:0800 027 5787 or 833 3944

The Silver Line 24/7 helpline for older people
Telephone: 0800 4 70 80 90

Manchester Bangladeshi Women’s Organisation
Telephone:257 3867

Neesa Well Women (Cheetham Hill, Asian women’s support)
Telephone:740 2995

Dementia Research

Join other people trying to help and find out more about dementia!

Website: www.joindementiaresearch.nihr.ac.uk

Together Dementia Support

Weekly groups in Moss Side, Chorlton and Whalley Range that offer support, friendship and activities to people who are living with dementia and to their carers including a gospel choir and a walk & talk group.

Please contact Sally Ferris on the numbers below or visit the website for full details.

Telephone: 07854 335890

Landline: 0161 226 7186

Website: www.togetherdementiasupport.org

Dementia Revealed Document

A document written for GPs and practice nurses but we feel could be useful to anyone who is interested. The document describes what dementia is, the different types, the general way that it is diagnosed and what can happen after diagnosis. Ask your GP or practice nurse if you have any questions.

Dementia Revealed (PDF)

Dementia Friendly Swimming

Swimming times that enhance the swimming experience of those living with dementia, along with their carers.

Website: www.better.org.uk

Dementia Friends

Learn more about what it is like to live with dementia and turn that understanding into action. Whether you attend a face-to-face session or watch the online video, Dementia Friends is about learning more about dementia and the small ways you can help.

Website: www.dementiafriends.org.uk

Dementia Friendly Group

A Dementia Friendly Group for Whalley Range, Chorlton and Fallowfield meets regularly at JNR8 Whalley Range Community Forum.

Email: fataiwilliams@tiscali.co.uk

Dementia UK Admiral Nurses

Specialist Mental Health Nurses that work with family carers and people with dementia, in the community and other settings: individual/family work, Post-Diagnostic Support Groups (PDSG), and Carer’s Workshops and a local programme of Dementia Café’s.

Admiral Nursing Direct Helpline:  0845 257 9406

Central Manchester Admiral Nurse Stephanie:  07436 036505

Website: www.dementiauk.org

People First

Offers a support service for people in Manchester who have issues around mental health, elderly people who are showing early signs of dementia and people at risk of becoming socially isolated.

Website: www.pfha.co.uk

DemTalk – Dementia Toolkit for Effective Communication

Online toolkit that offers free advice and shares ideas about how everyone can make communication easier and better. Different versions of the toolkit are tailored for different people: family carers, social carers, health or care professional.

Website: www.demtalk.org.uk

AT Dementia – Assistive Technology and Dementia

Provides information on Assistive Technology that can help people with dementia live more independently. Including useful advice and product suggestions about equipment and where to by it and a discussion forum.

Website: www.atdementia.org.uk

Dementia Gateway

Short videos providing information about Dementia by the Social Care Institute for excellence:

Website: www.scie.org.uk

Alzheimer’s Society Manchester

A leading charitable organisation providing services, advice and support to people with dementia and their carers.

Helpline: 0300 222 1122

Website: www.alzheimers.org.uk

Alzheimer’s Society has made some videos about the different types of dementia:

Marion Lauder House

A private company that provides day care and respite breaks for carers in a dedicated residential dementia care unit near Manchester Airport.

Website: www.careconcepts.co.uk

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a serious life-long health condition that occurs when the amount of sugar in the blood is too high because the body can’t use it properly. If left untreated, high blood sugar levels can cause serious health complications.

Diabetes UK: Diabetes the Basics

Patient.info Diabetes Hub

Diabetes UK

The leading UK charity for people affected by diabetes. View information on preventing, living with diabetes and how they can help.

Website: www.diabetes.org.uk

Sugar Group at Kath Locke Centre

This Diabetes Support Group welcomes everyone and meets on Mondays between 1 and 3pm at the Kath Locke Centre, 123 Moss Lane East.

Website: www.thebiglifegroup.com

Healthy Eating and Weight Loss in Diabetes (English and Urdu)

A collection of resources to help with weight loss and sugar control from the Public Health UK Collaboration, including ones written in Urdu and Mandarin.

Website: www.phcuk.org

A Better Life

Providing services in your area to encourage adults and families to lose weight and lead healthier lives.

Refer yourself by calling:
0161 393 7576 (adult service)
0161 393 7576 (family service)

Website: www.ablhealth.co.uk

Choose to Change

The Choose to Change programme is totally different to traditional weight loss programmes. It encourages lifelong changes to eating habits rather than short term diets. It helps people to overcome their barriers to weight loss, make sensible food choices and become more active. It has produced many successful results.

Website: www.ablhealth.co.uk

Life Coaching

Coaching can help you move towards where you want to be more quickly than by going it alone.

Website: www.vickiwalkercoaching.co.uk 

Telephone: 07989 371908

Weight Watchers

Meetings, Online or a little bit of both. We’ve got options and support, whatever your lifestyle.

Website: www.weightwatchers.com

Dietdoctor

View health information, recipes and advice on how to lose weight.

Website: www.dietdoctor.com

Slimming World

You’ll find delicious recipe and menu ideas at your local group, along with all the help you need to get started and reach your target weight.

Website: www.slimmingworld.co.uk

Overeaters Anonymous

Are you obsessed with food, eating or your weight? Whatever problem you may be having with food you are welcome in Overeaters Anonymous. It is not a diet club. There are no fees or weigh-ins. Weekly central Manchester meetings on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Telephone: 07843 942118 or 07870 342888

Website: www.oagb.org.uk

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals are nutrients your body needs in small amounts to work properly and stay healthy. Most people should get all the nutrients they need by having a varied and balanced diet, although some people may need to take extra supplements.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for keeping bones, teeth and muscles healthy. Current advice is that many people should consider taking a vitamin D supplement in the darker autumn and winter months although in most cases this is not available on prescription. Vitamin D is also particularly important for children under 5 years and pregnant women.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Healthy Start

With Healthy Start, you get free vouchers every week to spend on milk, plain fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables, and infant formula milk. You can also get free vitamins.

Pregnant or have children under the age of four? You could qualify if you’re on benefits, or if you’re pregnant and under 18. Look online or ask your Health Visitor or midwife.

Website: www.healthystart.nhs.uk

Get started on the nhs 12 Week Weight Loss Plan

The plan is designed to help you lose weight and keep it off.

Website: www.nhs.net

Am I a Healthy Weight?

Calculate your BMI here:

NHS Tools

Further information

For more information about the benefits of losing weight, top tips and more visit

NHS – Weight Loss

Patient.info – Mediterranean Diet

Free Real Food Lifestyle Patient Booklets for advice on weight loss

One You – How healthy is your food?

One You – How much have you moved today?

Domestic abuse aware practice

The staff in your GP practice are trained to ask about domestic abuse and specialist workers are available to support you. Your practice is an ‘IRIS’ practice. You can talk to doctors, nurses and other staff working here if you are being hurt or controlled by your current or ex-partner, are afraid of someone at home or a member of your family.

The IRIS service is for all GP patients and staff, both women and men, aged 16 or over, whatever age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity or background. IRIS’s oldest patient so far is 87.

Contact your GP for a referral to the IRIS worker: Contact the Practice

IRIS Office (09:00–16:30): 0161 820 8416

Manchester Women’s Aid: 0161 660 7999

In an emergency call the police on 999

Coronavirus (COVID-19) and abuse

Social isolation can increase stress at home, impacting on you and your family’s well-being. Your GP practice is here to help you.

Contact your GP: Contact the Practice

Government Support Website: www.gov.uk/government/coronavirus

SafeLives Charity Resouces: www.safelives.org.uk

Economic Abuse and COVID-19: www.survivingeconomicabuse.org/resources

National domestic abuse helpline

This is a 24 hour National domestic abuse helpline.

Telephone: 0800 2000 247

Website: www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk

Silent Solutions Police

In an emergency call 999 for the police. If you cannot safely speak to the operator to ask for the Police, stay on the line and the call will be forwarded to an operating system. Press 55 to be transferred to the local police force as an emergency.

Silent Call Police: 999, wait, then 55

Greater Manchester End The Fear

Help, support and advice for anybody who is experiencing domestic or sexual violence. Support also for people who know someone who may be being abused. We want to encourage victims of domestic and sexual violence in Greater Manchester to find the courage to come forward and seek support and help. You don’t have to put up with domestic abuse.

Website: www.endthefear.co.uk

Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline

The Helpline is confidential and you do not have to give your name. The Domestic Abuse Helpline is a safe space for you to talk through what is going on at the moment and give you the options that are available to you.

Website: www.domesticabusehelpline.co.uk

Telephone: 0161 636 7525 (Mon-Fri 10:00-16:00 excluding bank holidays)

Urdu/Punjabi Helpline: 0161 636 7525 (Mon-Tue 10:00-13:00, Wed 13:00-16:00)

Manchester Women’s Aid

Manchester Women’s Aid provides services so that domestic abuse survivors can live a life free from the fear of domestic violence and abuse. We provide safe and confidential temporary accommodation, play services, advice and support, dedicated case workers and support groups.

Website: www.pankhursttrust.org

Telephone: 0161 660 7999

Cover your tracks online

If you are worried that someone may find out which websites you have visited, there are ways to cover your tracks online.

Website: www.womensaid.org.uk

Bright Sky

Bright Sky is a free to download mobile app providing support and information to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship, or those concerned about someone they know. Available in four languages: English, Urdu, Punjabi and Polish.

Website: www.hestia.org/brightsky

Economic Abuse – restricting and controlling money

If a current or former partner has interfered with your money or other economic resources in some way to limit your choices, this information is for you. It may support you to identify economic abuse and the next steps that you might take.

Website: www.survivingeconomicabuse.org

Saheli Asian Women’s Project

A specialist service in Manchester, dedicated to serving the particular needs that Asian women and their families face. Thousands of women over the years have had a chance to leave abusive situations and secure a better future for them and their families.

Website: www.saheli.org.uk

Telephone: 0161 945 4187

Urdu and Punjabi helpline

A dedicated, confidential service in Urdu or Punjabi provided as part of the Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline for anyone experiencing or has experienced domestic abuse.

Urdu/Punjabi Helpline: 0161 636 7525 (Mon-Tue 10:00-13:00, Wed 13:00-16:00)

Website: www.domesticabusehelpline.co.uk/our-services/community-helpline-language-service

National LGBT domestic abuse helpline

Galop gives advice and support to people who have experienced biphobia, homophobia, transphobia, sexual violence or domestic abuse.

Telephone: 0800 999 5428

Contact online: www.galop.org.uk/report

Are you about to hurt someone?

If you are concerned about your behaviour and feel you may be about to hurt someone please contact

The Respect Phoneline:  www.respectphoneline.org.uk

Telephone:  0808 802 4040

The Respect Phoneline is a confidential national helpline, email, webchat service for perpetrators of domestic abuse looking for help to stop.

They help male and female perpetrators in heterosexual or same sex relationships. Partners or ex-partners of perpetrators, as well as family and friends, are welcome to get in touch for information, advice and support.

Or

Talk Listen Change (TLC): www.talklistenchange.org.uk.

Telephone: 0161 872 1100

Talk Listen Change (TLC) are the local provider of perpetrator behaviour change programmes in Manchester.

Zion Centre - Manchester Integrated Drug and Alcohol Service (MIDAS)

This local advice, support and treatment centre is in Hulme. It is the local centre for anyone who wants help with alcohol (however much you drink – from advice about healthy drinking to full treatment for alcohol dependence). It is the centre for help with any drug misuse (misuse of prescription drugs, illicit drug use, etc).

Telephone: 0161 226 5526

Website: www.changegrowlive.org

JNR8 Youth & Community Centre, Whalley Range

One-to-one support and mentoring, cooking workshops for healthy eating and other youth projects for people aged 11–18 years. Support for whatever issues you may have, including relationships, homelessness, drugs and alcohol and behaviour. Our work has also included work in areas such as homework, confidence building, and dealing with anger issues.

Website: www.wryoa.co.uk

Drinkaware Unit & Calorie Calculator

Want to know what’s in your drinks? Easy, find out about what calories and how many units you consume.

Website: www.drinkaware.co.uk

Recovery Academy

The Trust’s Recovery Academy provides a range of free educational courses and resources for people with mental health and substance misuse problems, their families and carers as well as health care professionals.

Website: www.gmmh.nhs.uk

Back on Track

A Manchester charity that runs a learning centre in Manchester’s Northern Quarter for people who are going through a process of recovery or rehabilitation, having been through problems with alcohol or drugs, offending, homelessness and mental health.

Website: www.backontrackmanchester.org.uk

Talk to Frank

Talk to Frank for friendly, confidential drugs facts and advice.

Telephone: 0300 123 6600

Website: www.talktofrank.com

Alcoholics Anonymous

Find a Local Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting

Al-Anon

Al-Anon is there for anyone whose life is or has been affected by someone else’s drinking. Al-Anon is about helping you to find solace with and support from others who have been affected by their relationship with a drinker. A local group meets every Thursday evening in off Princess Parkway.

Telephone: 0800 0086 811

Website: www.al-anonuk.org.uk

Drinkline

If you’re worried about your own or someone else’s drinking you can call this free helpline in complete confidence.

Telephone: 0300 123 1110

Further information

For more information about the benefits of drinking less, top tips and more visit  NHS – Drinking and Alcohol

Alternatively, for more information on how drug misuse can be harmful to your health visit  NHS – The Effects of Drugs

Age UK Manchester

Age UK Manchester offers information, advice and support to people aged 60 or over as well as projects and services across Manchester.

Website: www.ageuk.org.uk

Chorlton Good Neighbours

For older men, for older women! A group with services and activities that may be for you: coffee mornings linked to community nurse clinics, visits to you at home, trips, snooker, gardening…

Website: www.chorltongoodneighbours.org

Indian Senior Citizens’ Centre

The Indian Senior Citizens Centre is a Charity Registered (1040167) BME Voluntary organisation which provides culturally sensitive Day Resource Services for Indian Older People of city wide Manchester, Trafford, Stockport, Bury and Salford.

Website: www.iscc-manchester.org

Eldergym Senior Fitness

Useful exercises with videos for keeping strong in old age.

Website: www.eldergym.com

Creative Arts for Health

Having Falls

Having a fall is frightening and can affect your confidence. There are lots of things that can be done to reduce your risk of falling. We have a community falls team who can come and see you at home if you are having falls or worried about falling. Just ring to request this.

Telephone: 0161 209 9960

Manchester Care & Repair

A local charity working primarily with older people who own their own home. Free help and advice on choosing a builder, being energy efficient, safety and security of your home, and the HandyHelp Service can help with small DIY jobs and to address things when you come home after a stay in hospital.

Website: www.careandrepair-manchester.org.uk

Manchester Carers

Manchester Carers has two main projects to help older neighbours, click below to find out more.

Website: www.manchestercares.org.uk

Coffee 4 Craig

7 day homeless drop-in service offering advice on housing and emergency support, hot food, showers, internet access. Monday to Friday 7–9pm, Saturday and Sunday 5–7pm, 52 Oldham Street, M4 1LE.

Telephone: 07973 955 003

Website: www.coffee4craig.com

Cornerstone Day Centre

Drop-in service offering telephone, showers, meals, advice, dentist, haircuts, opticians, internet access, employment support and housing support. Monday to Friday 10.30am–4pm. 104b Denmark Road, M15 6JS

Telephone: 0161 232 8888

Website: www.cornerstonecds.org.uk

Mustard Tree

Monthly (£10) clothing and footwear allowance for people
sleeping rough. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10am–4pm (closed
Thursdays), Saturday 10am–4pm. 110 Oldham Road, M4 6AG

Hot meals – Fridays 7–9pm, 30a Poland Street, M4 6BH

Telephone: 0161 228 7331

Website: www.mustardtree.org.uk

Shelter

Free, confidential and impartial advice, support and guidance for anyone who is homeless or in housing need and/or has debt or benefit problems. Specialist level advice, legal representation, support to access the Private Rented sector and guided
self-help and access to information and resources around housing, welfare benefits and debt.

5 Samuel Ogden Street, M1 7AX, Monday to Friday 9am–5pm.

Telephone: 0344 515 1640

Website: www.england.shelter.org.uk

Lifeshare

Offering breakfast, showers, toiletries and clothing. 142 Dantzic Street, M4 4DN. Saturday and Sunday 7–9am.

Telephone: 0161 235 0744

Website: www.lifeshare.org.uk

Centrepoint

Daily housing support for young people aged 16–25. Monday to Friday 10am–12.30pm and 1.30–4.30pm (except Wednesday afternoon) and ad hoc activities. 52 Oldham Street, M4 1LE

Telephone: 0161 228 7654

Website: www.centrepoint.org.uk

Manchester Action on Street Health (MASH)

Women Only. MASH offers free support for women who sex work or women who are at risk of sex working. You do not need an appointment and can pop in whenever the Drop-in is open.

Drop-in Monday 3–6pm, Tuesday and Friday 12.30–3.30pm, Wednesday and Thursday 12.30–3.30pm and 8–10.45pm. 94–96 Fairfield Street, M1 2WR

Telephone: 0800 183 0499 or 0161 273 4555

Website: www.mash.org.uk

The Men’s Room

Men Only. Day support, advice and advocacy for young men 18–30 years old. Tuesday to Thursday 10am–3pm. 113 Fairfield Street, First Floor, M12 6EL

Telephone: 0161 834 1827

Website: www.mroom.co.uk

Street Support

Get local advice, support and help and if you have have recently been made homeless get emergency advice.

Website: www.streetsupport.net

Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Patient.info

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition arising from how the gut works and so it is not really an abnormality or disease. Different things help for different people and some of these websites may have useful information.

Website: www.patient.info

The IBS Network

The IBS Network is the national charity supporting people living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Website: www.theibsnetwork.org

FODMAP diet

Have you ever suffered with bloating or abdominal pain? Did you know certain carbs could be contributing to your discomfort? View this BBC article for more information on the FODMAP diet.

BBC Good Food

FODMAP Diet Chart – gidoctor.net

Community Physiotherapy Self-Referral

Physiotherapy self-referral is a system which allows you to refer yourself directly to a physiotherapist without having to see a doctor first.

Complete the referral form.

Zion & Kath Locke Centres

Community centres with activities, courses and classes including anxiety, depression and also self-harm weekly drop-in groups, hypnotherapy, massage, yoga, energy healing, Qigong and Reiki.

Zion Centre

Kath Locke Centre

Timetable of activities

Arthritis Research UK

Arthritis Research UK invests in breakthrough treatments, the best information and vital support for everyone affected by arthritis.

Website: www.arthritisresearchuk.org

Exercise Sheets - Dr Hasan Tahir

View exercise sheets including ankle, back, elbow, feet, hip and knee exercises.

Exercise Sheets – Dr Hasan Tahir

Exercises for Piriformis Syndrome

Please see this video for a demonstration of exercises for Piriformis Syndrome if directed here by your doctor.

Website: www.nhs.uk

GMMH Living with Fatigue and Pain Service

Do you have a long term physical health condition where persistent fatigue and/or pain are the main problems? After an initial assessment this NHS service can offer up to 5 individual clinic sessions and a mindfulness course specifically orientated towards living with pain and illness. You can ask your GP or other health worker more about this, or just self-refer by calling directly.

Telephone: 0161 271 0801

Pain Toolkit

A persistent pain problem can be difficult to understand and manage on an everyday basis. This Pain Toolkit website has been developed from the Pain Toolkit, a simple information booklet that provides you with handy tips and skills to support you along the way to managing your pain.

Website: www.nhs.manchester.paintoolkit.org

University of Salford Podiatry Clinic

Your GP or practice nurse can refer you to the NHS podiatry service but there is a currently a long waiting list of several months. The School of Podiatry at the University of Salford offer a faster service. The assessment and management clinic can be attended by anyone (adults and children) in need of essential foot care – you may have painful pressure lesions or just be unable to care for your feet. At the clinic you will be given a full assessment and treated accordingly for £10-15.

Telephone: 0161 295 2205

Website: www.salford.ac.ukore

HRT and Alternatives

Information for women, their partners and families about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the alternatives for treatment of menopausal symptoms.

Website: www.rcog.org.uk

Primary Care Women's Health Forum

Here you can find the latest guidelines, patient materials and articles from a board of healthcare professionals and recommended external sources. Available free of charge to all.

Website: pcwhf.co.uk/resources/

Menopause Matters

An independent website providing up-to-date, accurate information about the menopause, menopausal symptoms and treatment options. Here you will find information on what happens leading up to, during and after the menopause, what the consequences can be, what you can do to help and what treatments are available.

Website: www.menopausematters.co.uk

Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Wellbeing

Young Minds Coronavirus Pages

FACE COVID Leaflet & (ACT Approach)

Greater Manchester Resources and Helplines Leaflet

Living Life to the Full Resources Hub

GMHSC Partnership COVID-19 Wellbeing Resources

Mind: Coronavirus and your Wellbeing

COVID-19 Free 1:1 Online Support (Mind-Body Awareness Approach)

Free music service to provide self-care support during coronavirus pandemic

Helplines if you are in a crisis

NHS 111

SANEline (16:30-22:30) 0300 304 7000

Samaritans 24/7 Helpline 116 123

Manchester GMMH 24/7 Helpline 0800 953 0285

Text SHOUT to 852258

Other Crisis Services

Help! Click here for some other places to turn to when you feel unable to cope.

Shout

Shout is the UK’s first 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. It’s a place to go if you’re struggling to cope and you need immediate help.

Website: www.giveusashout.org

Text Shout to 852258

Samaritans

If something is troubling you, call Samaritans free, 24 hours a day 365 days a year.

Telephone: 116 123

Website: www.samaritans.org

Email: jo@samaritans.org

Self Help Services

Self Help provide a range of support, services and opportunities for people living with mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, phobias and panic attacks.

Refer yourself for counselling

Chorlton Anxiety Group – Tue 7-9pm

Zion Anxiety Group – Wed 1-3pm

Zion Depression Group – Wed 3-5pm

Bereavement & Loss Group – Tue 5.30-7.30pm

eTherapy (online CBT)

NHS Self Help Leaflets

Zion & Kath Locke Centres

Community centres with activities, courses and classes including anxiety, depression and also self-harm weekly drop-in groups, hypnotherapy, massage, yoga, energy healing, Qigong and Reiki.

Zion Centre

Kath Locke Centre

Timetable of activities

Living Life To The Full

Living Life To The Full is one of the most used resources for improving feelings, beating stress and boosting ability to live well. We want as many people as possible from across Greater Manchester to also enjoy these benefits. So we’ve made Living Life To The Full easily available, totally FREE of charge, for all residents.

Website: www.gmhealthhub.org

Every Mind Matters

Having good mental health helps us relax more, achieve more and enjoy our lives more. There are simple things we can all do to look after our mental health and wellbeing – take our quiz to get started today with a free plan, expert advice and practical tips.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Greater Manchester Mental Health

GMMH provides a wide range of services in the treatment and recovery of mental health conditions and substance misuse.

Website: www.gmmh.nhs.uk

Crisis and Out of Hours

For people already using the Greater Manchester Mental Health services there is a number to ring if you are in crisis or it is out-of-hours.

Telephone: 0161 922 3801 (Manchester) 01204 390302 (Trafford)

Website: www.gmmh.nhs.uk

Time to Change

Time to change is a campaign to change the way people think and act about mental health problems.

Website: www.time-to-change.org.uk

Buzz Manchester

An NHS Health & Wellbeing Service whose aim is to help improve your health and wellbeing of people and communities in Manchester, to help individuals and families live fuller, healthier, happier and longer lives.

Website: www.buzzmanchester.co.uk.

Manchester Mind

Manchester Mind is in independent local mental health charity which delivers services to young people and adults. Our vision is of a city that promotes good mental health and treats people with mental health problems positively, fairly and with respect.

Website: www.manchestermind.org

42nd Street

Are you 11-25? Are you stressed out and need someone to talk to in confidence?

42nd Street is a centre for young people’s mental health and wellbeing. They offer groups (including a women’s group and a depression & anxiety group) or one-to-one counselling and therapy.

If you think it’s time to talk, you can refer yourself or ask someone else to refer you to 42nd Street. This might be a teacher, youth worker, parent or carer or someone else you trust.

Telephone: 0161 228 7321

Website: www.42ndstreet.org.uk

JNR8 Youth & Community Centre, Whalley Range

One-to-one support and mentoring, cooking workshops for healthy eating and other youth projects for people aged 11–18 years. Support for whatever issues you may have, including relationships, homelessness, drugs and alcohol and behaviour. Our work has also included work in areas such as homework, confidence building, and dealing with anger issues.

Website: www.wryoa.co.uk

Kooth

For all Manchester children and young people aged 11-18 years: this is a 24/7 online service to help support your emotional health and wellbeing.

Kooth is free, safe, confidential and non-stigmatised. Kooth offer online counselling, self-help tools, peer support boards, moderated peer discussion, referral into face-to-face services, and a co-produced online magazine.

Website: www.kooth.com

Greater Manchester Suicide Bereavement Information Service

If you have been bereaved or affected by suicide you can call.

Telephone: 0161 212 4919

YoungMinds

Everybody knows how important it is to look after their physical health, but sometimes people forget to look after their mental health. Whether you want to know more about how you’re feeling, get information about a mental health condition or know what support is available to you, YoungMind guides can help.

YoungMinds also manage a website called HeadMeds – straight talk on mental health medication.

Young Minds Website

Young Minds Facebook

HeadMeds Website

Right from the Start

for people experiencing psychosis for the first time. Getting the RIGHT support early to deal with mental difficulties improves prospects for recovery. Indeed that’s why Early Intervention in Psychosis services developed.

Website: www.rightfromthestartmatters.com

Shining a Light on Suicide

They want to support you if you are bereaved by suicide or concerned that someone you know may be thinking of suicide.

Website: www.shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk

Chronic Fatigue Self-Referral Service

Living with Fatigue and Pain Service

Creativity

Use your natural creative skills to maintain and improve your wellbeing. Pick from dozens of creative activities designed for you by experts in the field of arts and health on this website.

Website: www.start2.co.uk

Yoga, meditation and sports

Deep breathing and co-ordinated exercising and activities are beneficial to mental health and can help reduce anxiety, stress and depression. Meditation, yoga and group activities such as singing, dancing, martial arts and sports can in this way be seen as possible ways to help prevent and settle unsettled emotional states.

Article on Yoga, Meditation and Anxiety

Lotus Flower: 31 Days of Yoga (Free)

Do Yoga With Me free online videos

For some local classes see our Keeping Active section

Meditation not Medication

The free website ‘Look at Paintings’ innovatively partners techniques of Mindful meditation with Art Appreciation, with the aim of producing immediate benefits to the viewer.

Find out more information 

Website: www.lookatpaintings.co.uk

Email: wendy.teal@zen.co.uk

Getting out in Nature

If you are able then getting out in nature can be so helpful to our wellbeing. Locally there are many parks and green spaces such as The Alexandra Park, Longford Park, Chorlton Ees, Turn Moss Playing Fields, Ivy Green, Chorlton Water Park, Hough End Playing Fields and Southern Cemetery.

Being Active

Healing Forest Website and Forest Meditations

Coaching with Walking – a local coach who offers to meet while walking in the natural environment in a local park or green space. First session free.
Telephone: 07989 371908

Self-harm in Older Adults

This leaflet aims to give information to people affected by self-harm:

Self-harm in Older Adults

Mind

Information and Support for all mental health issues. Mind Info line:

Telephone: 0300 123 3393

Website: www.mind.org.uk

Rethink

Help, information and support for all those affected by mental illness.

Website: www.rethink.org

Living Life to the Full

Offering free resources to help you help yourself.

Website: www.llttf.com

Moodswings

The work of the Charity is based on a belief that people can recover from severe mood problems and move on to lead happier and fuller lives. From its centre in Manchester, Moodswings reaches out across the north west and beyond with a message of real hope and optimism for individuals and their families and friends.

Website: www.moodswings.org.uk

NHS Moodzone

Whatever you need to know about coping with stress, anxiety or depression, or just the normal emotional ups and downs of life, the NHS Moodzone is here to help.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Further information

For more information about mental health, ways to cope with it and more visit

NHS – Mental Health

One You – Feeling Stressed?

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice aims to provide the advice people need for the problems they face and improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives. They provide free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities including on benefits, debt, consumer, housing, family, law and immigration. They value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination.

Find out more 

Telephone advice  03444 111 222 (local rate)

Instant Access Surgery Phone – Free in some GP practices in our neighbourhood.

Assisted digital and information service – Manchester Town Hall, Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 2pm.

Greater Manchester Law Centre

Located on Princess Road in Moss Side near Alexandra Park, you can walk in to this centre Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm to ask about free legal advice.
By appointment they also provide support with Employment Support Allowance (ESA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) both with completing forms, managing failed medical (work capability) assessments and with appeals.

Also Employment Legal Advice Clinic every first Friday of the month for advice on any employment law related issue, by appointment.

0161 769 2244

Find out more

Work and Mental Wellbeing

View information about work and mental health and services available to help in Manchester.

Find out more

Pregnancy Testing

Pregnancy testing kits can be bought at pharmacies and supermarkets or can be done for free at a Sexual Health Clinic. GP surgeries do not offer a pregnancy testing service.

Find out more

When you become pregnant

When you become pregnant you will have various choices ahead of you. The earlier you seek advice the more options you have. We recommend folic acid and vitamin D supplements for the healthy development of a baby and it is sensible to meet early with midwife to discuss healthy and safe nutrition and alcohol use.

Arrange a first contact meeting with a midwife.

Maternity services at St Mary’s Hospital

Maternity services at Wythenshawe Hospital

If you will be aged under 18 years when your baby is due you can refer yourself to a young person’s midwife.

Refer yourself to a young person’s midwife.

Antenatal Care

Calculate your Due Date

Your Antenatal Appointments Explained

Find Maternity Services Near you

Planning your Pregnancy

If you’re planning on getting pregnant, you can improve your chances of conceiving and having a successful pregnancy. Follow these steps

Postnatal Care

Your six week post natal check

ICON – infant crying and how to cope

The Manchester ICON webpage has information on infant crying, safe sleeping, the Health Visiting service and Infant feeding team.

Website: www.manchesterlco.org

Extra information: www.mft.nhs.uk

Health Visitors

Manchester Health Visiting Service offers comprehensive advice and support to parents and carers of children from pre-birth to four and a half years. A health visitor is a registered nurse or midwife with specialist additional qualifications in child, family and public health who offers a range of advice and information on feeding, parenting skills, sleeping and healthy eating and a whole lot more.

Facebook: @MFThealthvisiting

Website: www.mft.nhs.uk

Children’s Centres

There are a number of children’s centres across Manchester that offer a variety of friendly activities, events, help and support to families of children aged 0 to 5 years with advice on parenting, local childcare options and access to specialist services for families, baby massage sessions, breastfeeding support, stay and play opportunities.

Find your nearest children’s centre

Further information

Whatever you want to know about getting pregnant, being pregnant or caring for your new baby, you should find it here:

NHS – Your Pregnancy & Baby Guide

Continuous Pill Taking

Many people choose “the pill” as a form of hormonal contraception, the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP), traditionally taken for 21 days followed by a 7 day gap. Updated guidance advises continuous (every day) pill taking for improved ease and effectiveness and to reduce the troubles that come with regular menstrual periods.

Information Leaflet 

Further Information

FSRH Press Release

FRESH - Sexual Health & Contraception

FRESH is a city-wide sexual health and contraception services with dedicated clinics for under 25s.

Website: www.fresh4manchester.nhs.uk

Sexual Health and Contraception Clinics

If you think you might have an infection, or just want a sexual health check-up, the doctors and nurses at Northern clinics in Manchester will be happy to help. These clinics are free and confidential.

Your own GP clinic can provide some contraception and emergency contraception advice, and the Northern clinics offer this too. Some local pharmacies also provide an emergency contraception service.

Website: www.manchester.gov.uk

Website: mft.nhs.uk

Family Planning Association

They are a sexual health charity. They give straightforward information and support on sexual health, sex and relationships to everyone in the UK.

Website: www.fpa.org.uk

The Proud Trust (LGBT+)

The Proud Trust is the home for LGBT+ Youth (Lesbian. Gay. Bisexual. Trans. Other identities).

Website: www.theproudtrust.org

Brook

Brook provides free and confidential sexual health and wellbeing services for nearly 250,000 young people UK-wide, each year.

Website: www.brook.org.uk

Sexual Health Helpline

The National Sexual Health Helpline provided by Public Health England is open Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm.

Telephone: 0300 123 7123 

Vaginal Discharge

Common causes for vaginal discharge include bacterial vaginosis (BV) and thrush (candida). These are not sexually transmitted infections although it is recommended to have a sexual health screen if they keep coming back. Advice on BV and thrush as well as tips on how to treat any symptoms you have can be found on the links below.

BV (NHS)

BV (Patient.Info)

Vaginal thrush (NHS)

Vaginal thrush (Patient.Info)

Cervical Screening (Smear Test)

If you or someone you know has questions about cervical screening (the smear test), cell changes, HPV or cervical cancer, take a look at the Jo’s Trust website. They have put together information with the help of experts and people with personal experience.

Website: www.jostrust.org.uk

Further information

For more information about Sexual Health topics including a contraception guide visit

NHS – Sexual Health

How to Lower Blood Pressure

Your diet, exercise levels and weight have a real effect on your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, you can start lowering blood pressure today by eating more healthily and being more active.

Website: www.bloodpressureuk.org

Zion & Kath Locke Centres

Community centres with activities, courses and classes including anxiety, depression and also self-harm weekly drop-in groups, hypnotherapy, massage, yoga, energy healing, Qigong and Reiki.

Zion Centre

Kath Locke Centre

Timetable of activities

FREE NHS Health Checks in your community

NHS health checks are being offered to people aged between 40 and 74 in your community. The NHS health check is designed to spot the early signs of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia. For more information please visit our NHS Health Checks page.

Be Well (The Big Life Group)

Life in the way of healthy living? Be Well is here to help you find a way to live and feel well whatever twists and turns life brings. We can even help you get on top of work, housing, family and money worries.

Be Well is here for people living in Central and South Manchester. For more information, speak to a member of staff at your GP Practice or get in touch using the methods below.

Telephone: 0161 470 7120

Website: www.thebiglifegroup.com

High Blood Pressure - Patient.Info

View information on High blood pressure (hypertension) symptoms, causes and if you need to lower your blood pressure.

High Blood Pressure Information

Cholesterol - Patient.info

View information on cholesterol, risk factors and treatments available to reduce the risk.

Cholesterol Information

NHS Weekly Activity Guidance

View information on physical activity guidelines.

Website: www.nhs.uk

NHS Couch to 5k

Find out more and download the nine-week set of Couch to 5K podcasts.

Website: www.nhs.uk

The Real Food Lifestyle for Weight Loss

View the free Real Food Lifestyle Patient Booklets for advice on weight loss.

Website: www.phcuk.org

Mediterranean Diet - Patient.info

View information on the Mediterranean Diet. The term ‘Mediterranean Diet’ describes a specific mix of dietary food ingredients, shown to promote health and long life in people.

Mediterranean Diet – Patient.info

Further Information

Please see our other sections:

Being Active
Diet and Weight
Mental Wellbeing
Stopping Smoking

Manchester Stop Smoking Service

Manchester Stop Smoking Service provides free NHS support to help you quit smoking. Support is available from trained professional advisor at a number of venues across the city including pharmacies, GP practices, community centres, local markets etc. The service is open to anyone who lives or works in Manchester.

Website: www.stopsmokingmanchester.co.uk

Get Support Now

Choose from an app, Quit Kit, email, SMS and face-to-face guidance.

Website: www.nhs.uk

Get a Plan

Everyone has a different reason for quitting, get a personalised Quit Smoking Plan.

Website: www.quitwithhelp.co.uk

Further information

For more information about the benefits of stopping smoking, top tips and more visit

NHS Choices – Stop Smoking

One You – Thinking of quitting?

Young Person’s eTherapy Service

A free online interactive eTherapy Service for 11 – 18 year olds to help with how thoughts have an impact on feelings, physical symptoms and behaviours.

Website: www.selfhelpservices.org.uk

Kooth

Online 24/7 support for ages 11-18.

Website: www.kooth.com

42nd Street

Are you 11-25? Are you stressed out and need someone to talk to in confidence?

42nd Street is a centre for young people’s mental health and wellbeing. They offer groups (including a women’s group and a depression & anxiety group) or one-to-one counselling and therapy.

If you think it’s time to talk, you can refer yourself or ask someone else to refer you to 42nd Street. This might be a teacher, youth worker, parent or carer or someone else you trust.

Telephone: 0161 228 7321

Website: www.42ndstreet.org.uk

YoungMinds

Everybody knows how important it is to look after their physical health, but sometimes people forget to look after their mental health. Whether you want to know more about how you’re feeling, get information about a mental health condition or know what support is available to you, YoungMind guides can help.

YoungMinds also manage a website called HeadMeds – straight talk on mental health medication.

Website: www.youngminds.org.uk

Facebook: @youngmindsuk

FRESH - Sexual Health & Contraception

FRESH is a city-wide sexual health and contraception services with dedicated clinics for under 25s.

Website: www.fresh4manchester.nhs.uk

When a Parent has Cancer

Helps you cope when a parent has cancer: riprap is a site is developed especially for teenagers who have a parent with cancer. In riprap, you can learn more about cancer and its treatment and through real stories you can read the experiences of other young people and share your own story.

Website: www.riprap.org.uk

Diabetes in Your Teens

This section is for teenagers with lots of information and support all about Type 1 diabetes. If you or someone you know has diabetes, you may find this useful.

Diabetes UK: Guide to Type 1 Diabetes in your teens

Further diabetes information

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice aims to provide the advice people need for the problems they face and improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives. They provide free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities including on benefits, debt, consumer, housing, family, law and immigration. They value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination.

Telephone: 03444 111 222

Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Instant Access Surgery Phone – Free in some GP practices in our neighbourhood.

Assisted digital and information service – Manchester Town Hall, Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 2pm.

Greater Manchester Law Centre

Located on Princess Road in Moss Side near Alexandra Park, you can walk in to this centre Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm to ask about free legal advice.
By appointment they also provide support with Employment Support Allowance (ESA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) both with completing forms, managing failed medical (work capability) assessments and with appeals.

Also Employment Legal Advice Clinic every first Friday of the month for advice on any employment law related issue, by appointment.

Telephone: 0161 769 2244

Website: www.gmlaw.org.uk

Fit for Work

Manchester’s Fit for Work service is a free telephone-based support service, funded by Manchester Health and Care Commissioning. The service provides support to people who have needed to take time off work as a consequence of issues such as Mental Health (including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, confidence, stress), back, joint or neck pain (including lower limb pain, RSI, Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia), bullying and harassment within the workplace, financial problems, redundancy, changes to employment circumstances and associated pressures and workplace stress, pressure of work-life balance.

If you are a resident of Manchester who is currently off work sick and feel that the service could help please contact the service:

Telephone: 0161 974 1286

Website: www.pathwayscic.co.uk

Email: mhcc.fitforworkservice@nhs.net