education
Measles Outbreak: Importance of MMR Vaccination
Earlier this month a child died in Alder Hey Children’s Hospital of measles. Alder Hey stated that it had treated 17 children for complications of
July 27, 2025
Blog
Welcome to my Blog area. I hope you find these articles of interest.
education
UK Family Hubs: A Comprehensive Support System by 2028
Every council in England will have a family hub by 2028. To provide a single point of access for services in health, education and wellbeing.
July 13, 2025
education
UK Bill on Assisted Dying: Key Parliamentary Vote Explained
The Commons voted on Friday (20th June 2025) for a bill to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill people. This is a landmark of social reform.
June 22, 2025
education
NHS Equity in Mental Health: A Call for Action
NHS Providers last week called for physical and mental health to be treated equally by the NHS. The action plan is to provide ‘values driven,
June 8, 2025
education
Breaking the Silence: Men’s Mental Health Awareness
Last week I met an employer, who had to let some subcontractors go because a large contract fell through. This was a tough decision. There
June 1, 2025
education
Men’s Health Strategy: A Call for Public Input
Last month the Government called for evidence to inform the development of a Men’s Health Strategy. It is not a formal consultation but seeks views
May 25, 2025
Uncategorized
How UK Biobank Data Transforms Health Insights
Last month it was revealed that the UK Biobank (based on 500,000 volunteers) has released some of the data to Chinese researchers. Let us be
May 4, 2025
Uncategorized
Understanding Overeating: Beyond Willpower
Food is more than nourishment it is entwined in all cultures as comfort, tradition and reward. It is often a meal with others, together with
April 27, 2025
education
Impact of Income Inequality on Mental Health and Well-being
Income inequality is important because there are threefold differences in the proportion of the population suffering from mental illness between more and less equal countries.
April 20, 2025
education
Rising Mortality Rates in the UK: An Urgent Public Health Concern
Over the past decade, the United Kingdom has experienced a disturbing trend: rising mortality rates and stagnating life expectancy. The UK has a long-standing public
April 13, 2025
education
Depression: Multifaceted Causes and Tailored Treatments
Depression is a disabling and treatable illness. Getting the right treatment swiftly is necessary to avoid longer term challenges. Depression affects how you think, feel, and
April 6, 2025
education
Mental Health Crisis and Welfare Reform: Urgent Needs
Three leading charities – Mind, Scope and Citizens Advice – have seen a big increase in demand following the government’s welfare green paper. People are
March 30, 2025
Uncategorized
Liz Kendall’s Proposed Changes to Welfare: What You Need to Know
The Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall MP, announced the benefits reform Green Paper this week. The significant reforms to the welfare system, aiming to
March 23, 2025
education
Accelerate Action: International Women’s Day it Includes Other Goals Beyond Equal Pay
Yesterday was International Women’s Day (IWD). It is celebrated every year on 8th March. It is a day dedicated to recognising achievements of women and advocating
March 9, 2025
health
From Ashes to Aces: What Tobacco Control Can Teach Us About Tackling Gambling Harms
In the BMJ, 22nd February 2025, May van Schalkwyk analysis of the gambling industry was correct, she said, “governments must act to prevent large scale avoidable
March 2, 2025
Uncategorized
The Strain on NHS Services and Staff Shortages
The UK is trapped in a “mental health crisis,” according to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, with demand for services soaring. This could be said
February 23, 2025
health
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Effective Strategies
Despite accomplishments, many individuals struggle with persistent self-doubt and a fear of being exposed as a “fraud.” Understanding imposter syndrome can help us recognise it
February 16, 2025
health
Understanding Burnout: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Burnout is a state of chronic exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, leading to emotional depletion, detachment, and a decline in performance. The World Health Organization (WHO)
February 9, 2025
health
Labour Party’s Welfare Reform: Impacts on Poverty and Vulnerable Populations
The Labour Party claimed that combatting poverty and defending the welfare state were their top priority. What do you believe now? With the recent ideas
February 2, 2025
health
Embrace Aging: Tips for a Vibrant, Healthy Life
Aging is an inevitable part of life. Growing older does not have to mean compromising on your quality of life. A healthy old age is
January 26, 2025
health
HMPV Symptoms and Treatments: What You Need to Know
As you would anticipate this time of year there are increasing respiratory infections. Some people are nervous about the human metapneumovirus and that it may
January 12, 2025
health
Overcoming Loneliness: Strategies for Connection
Loneliness is not the same as being alone. Some people are content with little social contact and others may find that lonely. Some people experience
January 5, 2025
mentalhealth
The Power of Celebrating Small Wins for Personal Growth
There will be many people publicising their fabulous achievements in 2024. I believe there are many amazing people who have managed great things. However, please
December 29, 2024
mentalhealth
Controversial CEO of UnitedHealthcare Shot in NYC
Who was Brian Thompson, the US healthcare insurance chief executive who was shot and killed in Manhattan? He had been receiving threats relating to medical
December 15, 2024
mentalhealth
Flu Vaccines: A Key to Community Health and Immunity
The importance of flu vaccinations is to be considered especially for those at risk of severe illness or complications of a flu illness. Flu can
December 8, 2024
mentalhealth
The Power of Digital Activism in Social Movements
A social activation movement is a grassroots or global initiatives aimed at creating awareness, sparking dialogue, and inspiring action. These movements often begin with a
December 1, 2024
mentalhealth
Assisted Dying Law Proposal in the UK: Key Issues
Assisted dying, is complex and contentious. While proponents argue it offers a compassionate option for those suffering unbearable pain, opponents raise serious ethical concerns. The UK
November 24, 2024
mentalhealth
Why Men’s Mental Health Matters During Movember
Every November men grow moustaches for charities raising money for men’s health, including men’s mental health which requires urgent attention. Here is why.. Four in
November 17, 2024
mentalhealth
Understanding the Mental Impact of Natural Disasters
Natural disasters—like hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, and floods—leave physical destruction that is visible and immediate. However, they also deeply affect mental well-being, creating a hidden aftermath that
November 10, 2024
mentalhealth
Impact of Budget Changes on Health and Social Care
What does the money raised in the budget mean to health and how will the tax rises affect those working in health and social care?
November 3, 2024
mentalhealth
UK Budget 2024: NHS Funding Crisis Insights
The UK budget is on 30th October 2024. The Nuffield Trust has said, the NHS requires an uplift of 3.6% just to stand still. The
October 27, 2024
mentalhealth
Banning Smacking in England: A Shift Towards Child Protection
England has not banned smacking whereas it has been in Scotland and Wales. It was banned in Scotland on 7th November 2020 and 21st March 2022 in
October 20, 2024
mentalhealth
The Spiritual Benefits of Pilgrimage
Pilgrimage has been an essential part of human culture, transcending geographical, religious, and cultural boundaries. The pilgrimage is a profound spiritual practice that offers numerous
October 13, 2024
mentalhealth
Today is World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on 10 October. This year’s theme set by the WHO and World Federation of Mental Health is workplace
October 10, 2024
mentalhealth
Key Issues in NHS Discussions at Political Conferences
The political party conference season is upon us now. It is an opportunity to rally supporters, showcase policies, and stake their claim as the best
September 22, 2024
mentalhealth
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD): Raising Awareness and Taking Action
Last Tuesday, 10th September was World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), a day dedicated to raising awareness about suicide and promoting actions that can help prevent it.
September 15, 2024
mentalhealth
Innovative Depression Treatments: A Bright Future for Mental Health
There are many recent developments in depression treatment. Depression is a prevalent and challenging mental health disorder. Globally, it affects millions of people. Although traditional
September 8, 2024
mentalhealth
Personalised Medicine and mRNA Vaccines: A New Frontier in Healthcare
What is your understanding of personalised medicine? This is where treatments are tailored to the persons unique genetic makeup, also accounting for environmental and lifestyle
September 1, 2024
mentalhealth
Suicide in female doctors
Suicide in female doctors is a significant and concerning issue that has gained increasing attention. Studies and reports indicate that female doctors have a higher rate
August 25, 2024
mentalhealth
A Levels, T Levels, Apprenticeships, and More: Navigating Future Paths for Young People
You know that I am keen for all of us to invest in young people, they are our future. With the A level results last
August 18, 2024
mentalhealth
Discover the Health Benefits of Edible Cremini Mushrooms
Mushrooms have been a part of the human diet for thousands of years. Their unique flavours and textures and health benefits is why they continue
August 11, 2024
mentalhealth
Preventing Dementia: Tips for a Healthy Brain and Lifestyle
Dementia is a variety of conditions characterised by cognitive decline, (impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere with daily activities) leading to
August 4, 2024
mentalhealth
The Olympic Truce: Symbol of Peace and Unity Through History
The Opening Ceremony, to Friday’s Olympic Games, had a theme of peace. This is not new. The concept of the Olympic truce dates to ancient
July 28, 2024
mentalhealth
Understanding Adult ADHD: Impact, Diagnosis, and Treatment
An increasing number of adults are being diagnosed and treated for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Historically it was viewed as a childhood condition. Now,
July 21, 2024
mentalhealth
Managing Sunday Scaries: Tips for a Refreshed and Positive Start to the Week
For those who do not like Mondays!
July 14, 2024
mentalhealth
Alcohol Awareness Week 2024: Understanding the Impact and Health Risks of Alcohol Consumption
Today marks the end of Alcohol Awareness Week Alcohol has an impact on our families, communities, and healthcare systems. This week is to try and increase awareness
July 7, 2024
Uncategorized
Evolution of the English Voting System: From Exclusivity to Universal Suffrage
The General Election is on Thursday 4th July 2024. There is no legal requirement for early general elections to take place on a Thursday. By default,
June 30, 2024
mentalhealth
Deafblind Awareness Week in the UK: Embracing Inclusivity
This week, 24th to 30th June, marks Deafblind Awareness Week in the UK. It is a chance to learn more about deafblindness, the experiences of people who live with it, and
June 23, 2024
mentalhealth
Impact of Pandemic on School Attendance and Mental Health
Nearly 90% of school pupil absences are due to poor mental health. The mental health of young people has deteriorated since the pandemic. Headteachers site
June 16, 2024
Uncategorized
D-Day 80th Anniversary: The Largest Amphibious Invasion in History and Its Impact on WWII
This week on 6th June it will be 80 years since D-Day. The operation involved over 150,000 troops from allied nations. Its aim was to establish
June 2, 2024
mentalhealth
The Power of Social Interaction: Boosting Mental and Physical Health
Why is getting out and meeting people good for you? There can be isolation with virtual working and socialising. The importance of face-to-face can be underestimated.
May 26, 2024
mentalhealth
Moving for Mental Health: Embracing the 2024 Theme
Today is the last day of Mental Health Awareness Week 2024. The week is dedicated to raising awareness, breaking stigmas, and promoting better mental health
May 19, 2024
Uncategorized
Global Mental State 2023: Report Highlights and Implications
Two months ago, The Mental State of the World in 2023, was published. We are all concerned and interested about this following the pandemic, lockdowns
May 12, 2024
Uncategorized
MAY – Mental Health Awareness Month
This annual campaign is prominent in the USA but less so here. We, in the UK, have Mental Health Awareness Week, beginning on 13th May 2024.
May 5, 2024
Uncategorized
Better Data, Better Health: A Global Movement for Improved Health Better Data, Better Health:
This week I attended the Royal College of Psychiatrists “Better Data, Better Care” conference. The college has many audits covering many aspects including management of
April 28, 2024
Uncategorized
The Health Consequences of Perinatal Depression
The arrival of a baby is often celebrated as a joyous occasion. But for some new parents, this time can be overshadowed by feelings of
April 21, 2024
Uncategorized
NHS Patient Data
The NHS is prohibited from selling patient data for commercial gain. The focus is on using patient data securely to improve healthcare. However, when it
April 14, 2024
Uncategorized
World Health Day
Today is World Health Day. It is observed annually on April 7th a global health awareness day celebrated under the auspices of the World Health
April 7, 2024
Uncategorized
World Bipolar Day
Yesterday was World Bipolar Day, this day was chosen as it was Vincent van Gogh’s birthday and he was posthumously diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder.
March 31, 2024
Synthetic Opiate Painkillers
Synthetic Opiate Painkillers The United Nations has warned of a world-wide problem with accidental overdoses of synthetic opiates, and the UK is the second nation
March 17, 2024