 Welcome to the November edition of the Healthy Telford newsletter
This month we acknowledge both Men's Mental Health Awareness and Lung Cancer Awareness, as well as Carers' Rights Day. We've got two exciting funding opportunities to share with any local groups and organisations out there who want to do more for their communities. There's also plenty to do, from men's walking and yoga classes to Monday morning bhangra-fuelled exercise.
So it's that time once again to grab yourself a warm drink and catch up on what's going on in Telford and Wrekin this month to support your health and wellbeing.
And instead of a quiz this month, we're closing this edition with something a little bit different!
 Are you an organisation who can help people reduce their risk of having a heart attack or stroke through one simple check?
Telford & Wrekin Council's Health Improvement Team are seeking interested organisations who can provide blood pressure checks, with training, to community groups they engage with. A total of £30,000 is available and organisations can apply for a maximum grant of £1,800 to support the delivery of checks over 12 weeks.
Successful applicants would become part of the Council’s Community Blood Pressure Project which has been made possible by NHS Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin Integrated Care Board. They would play an important role in increasing the detection of high blood pressure (hypertension) amongst adults aged 40 and over, from at-risk groups such as:
- People living in areas of high deprivation (CORE20)
- Black, Asian and ethnically diverse communities, particularly Polish,
- Homeless or rough sleepers,
- Adults with Learning Disabilities & Autism,
- Veterans and
- People experiencing domestic abuse.
There are NO signs or symptoms of high blood pressure so the only way to find out is to get it checked. By helping to engage with the communities listed above, organisations will be helping to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, and save lives.
Expressions of Interest should be received by 5pm on Thursday 14 November 2024.
All applicants will be notified by 21 November 2024.
Applicants must be able to start the checks by 6 January 2025 and be able to deliver until 31 March 2025.
If you have any further questions about this small grant, please email communitybp@telford.gov.uk
 Are you part of a not-for-profit organisation within Telford and Wrekin?
If so you can now apply for ‘Telford Trust’ Community Grant funding to provide or grow community-based physical activity, to help people all ages and abilities to start well, live well and age well.
The grant will cater especially for projects which focus on residents of all ages who face the greatest risks of poor health and disadvantages, to increase activity and improve local people’s physical, emotional, social health and wellbeing.
Grants are on offer for between £600 - £2000 for projects that enable Telford and Wrekin residents to:
- achieve and maintain a healthy weight
- improve their emotional wellbeing and mental health
- become less lonely and better connected in their community
- become more physically active
- build community capacity for example through volunteering
- use outdoor green spaces for physical activity
- improve their physical health now and in the future
Visit the Telford & Wrekin website for full details of the grant scheme.
To discuss your ideas or find out more about the upcoming grant fund please email healthimprovement@telford.gov.uk
 Recognise your rights
On Thursday 21 November at the Carers' Centre, Suite 12 & 15 Hazeldine House, Central Square, Telford TF3 4JL there will be a live and interactive event from 1pm to 4pm in recognition of Carers Rights Day.
- Talk 1 - 1.30pm to 1.50pm: Amanda Benton, Adult Social Care
- Talk 2 - 2pm to 2.20pm: Will Davies, Citizens Advice Bureau
- Talk 3 - 2.30pm to 2.50pm: Lee Higgins, Telford & Wrekin finance advice
- Talk 4 - 3.30pm to 4pm:Employers for Carers webinar
- Drop-in - 4pm to 5pm: create a Your Carers Passport (Primary and Secondary)
Telford & Wrekin Council and the All Age Carers Centre will also be launching the new Carers Partnership Board on the day.
For further information about this event, call 01952 240209
 Smoking and lung cancer
However long you have been smoking, it’s always worth quitting, and never stop trying to quit. Every year that you are smoke-free decreases your risks of getting serious illness such as lung cancer.
If you have a lung condition, quitting is an effective way to treat it. By stopping smoking you will quickly feel less short of breath and will cough less.
Tobacco smoke contains over 5,000 chemicals including nicotine and when smoked these chemicals can harm your lungs. Smoking effects every part of your body from the tip of your toes to the roots of your hair, and contributes towards stroke, heart attack and many cancers. Every cigarette you smoke is harmful to your health.
The Stop Smoking Service
We know it’s not easy to quit. Smoking can be part of your daily routine and a habit that's hard to break, but there is help available. The free Stop Smoking Service in Telford and Wrekin is here to support you if and when you decide to quit. Your Stop Smoking Advisor will be able to help you make informed decisions about which products would be best for your smoking habits, enabling you to quit with confidence.
Common symptoms of lung cancer to look out for
It is important that you know what to look for, so that you can spot any signs of lung cancer early. If you notice any of the following you should seek your GP's advice:
- A cough that does not go away after three weeks or gets worse
- Coughing up blood or rust-coloured spit or phlegm
- Chest pain that feels worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing
- Repeat chest infections
- Unexplained weight loss and lack of appetite
- Shortness of breath or wheeziness for no reason
- Persistent tiredness and lack of energy
Finding cancer early makes it much more treatable.
For help to stop smoking
Contact the Stop Smoking Service for support to quit by calling 01952 382582, emailing healthylifestyles@telford.gov.uk or by completing the online form using the button below.
 Have you or a loved one been affected by cancer in the past three years?
Everyone who receives a cancer diagnosis and treatment will experience it differently.
If you have received a cancer diagnosis or treatment in the last three years, or supported someone who has, NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, along with local cancer services and organisations, want to hear your story to help shape future services. Join them on Wednesday 20 November from 9.30am to 2pm at The West Stand, Telford Football Club, Wellington TF1 2NW to share your experiences.
Wellbeing activities and lunch will be provided.
To book your spot you can call 01952 580300, email stw.getinvolved@nhs.net or book via Eventbrite using the button below.
 From the comfort of your own home
In addition to their community classes, Fit4Life also deliver a weekly Online Falls Prevention Class that you can participate in from the comfort of your own home.
The class includes seated and standing exercise and is delivered by Leigh who is a qualified instructor. All you need to take part is an internet connected tablet, laptop or phone. The bigger the screen the better.
You can join via Microsoft Teams or WhatsApp. These online classes take place on the following days:
- Mondays 11.30am to 12.30pm
- Wednesdays 12noon to 1pm
Sessions cost £20 per month.
To find out more and for joining instructions contact Leigh on 07865 081598 or email fit4life@live.co.uk.
Supporting men's health
International Men's Day is celebrated every year on 19 November, focusing on men's health, promoting gender equality, and highlighting positive male role models. The day aims to raise awareness of men's issues and improve the wellbeing of men and boys around the world.
Blood pressure, suicide, and heart attacks are just some of the issues Telford & Wrekin Council is looking to support men with during an International Men’s Day event on Saturday 16 November from 1pm, supported by Telford United Football Club, Watling Street, Wellington TF1 2TU.
The home fixture will see health and wellbeing services provided by the NHS and Telford & Wrekin Council, as well as partners and charities attending from 1pm, before the match kicks off at 3pm.
 Take the first step...
Towards better mental wellbeing. The Men Walking & Talking in Telford group meets every Friday at 7pm outside TGI Fridays (Southwater Square, Southwater Way TF3 4JJ) for a head-torch or phone lit walk around the Town Park. Each walk typically lasts for about an hour and no prior registration is needed.
Complimenting the walks is a Zoom call chat every Tuesday night, also at 7pm, along with a live chat group on WhatsApp.
A safe space to connect
Men Walking & Talking is more than just a fitness activity; it’s a supportive community where men can come together to share experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Telford Town Park provides the perfect backdrop for open conversations and genuine connections. No one is expected to 'perform' or have all the answers; the group is simply about walking, chatting, and supporting one another.
Whether you're in your twenties or sixties, the group is open to all. Everyone has something valuable to offer and share. So be part of breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and join a community where it’s okay to not be okay.
If you have any questions, please email menwalkingandtalking@outlook.com
Visit the Men Walk & Talking in Telford Facebook page for more information.
 Weekly yoga class for men
Funded by Forum 50+ the MENoga group meets every week and from 30 November 2024 they will be based at Dawley Town Hall every Thursday morning from 9.15am to 10.15am.
A practice for men of all ages, this is a great class for building core strength, balance, co-ordination and flexibility. A holistic, partially chair-based class, it can be used to aid rehabilitation after illness, surgery or injury, as well as offering relaxation techniques to integrate into your day to day life and a space to release anxiety, stress and fatigue.
Each class is followed by drinks and chat to offer support and build new relationships. Classes cost £5 per session and are pay as you go.
Powered by Sahara Alexandra at Bridgnorth Yoga Studio. Call 07475 500227 for further information.
 It’s time for another Glow Ride with Telford Bike Hub!
Telford Bike Hub is delighted to be back with another bold and bright glow ride on Thursday 21 November, from 6pm to 7pm. Shine a light on cycling by decorating your bike in the brightest lights you can find and light up the pathways around the Town Park while enjoying a bike ride. And afterwards, it's back to the Bike Hub for a hot chocolate to warm yourselves up.
The Glow Ride is a free event and open to all the family. Please book a ticket for each person attending to help give the Bike Hub an idea of how many people to expect. Tickets can be booked via the button below.
If you need to hire a bike, the Hub are offering bike hire and adaptive bike hire at their usual one hour hire prices of £10 for adults and £5 for children. Bikes will be allocated on a first come first served basis. To reserve a bike please email Telford Bike Hub at thebikehub@telford.gov.uk with your requirements.
If you require any further information please contact the Bike Hub on 01952 380413 or at thebikehub@telford.gov.uk
Happy cycling!
 Ramblers Wellbeing Walks need you!
Do you enjoy walking? Have you considered volunteering? Ramblers Wellbeing Walks is looking for keen, sociable people who could become confident walk leaders for a new group in Madeley on Thursdays.
Full training and support will be provided.
For more information contact Madeley Town Council's Wellbeing Officer, Charlotte Dade, on 01952 567288, or email her at charlotte@madeleytowncouncil.gov.uk.
 Start your week with a bhangra class!
In response to requests for a morning session, starting on Monday 4 November there will be a new Bhangra Fitness class at 9.30am at The Wakes, Oakengates TF2 6EP
What better way to start your week than with a fun, vibrant and energetic Bhangra Fitness session?
Costing £6 per 50 minute class, why not come along and try out this fun, full body workout to awesome bhangra tunes, which will boost your day and maybe even your week!
For more information call Jee on 07851 270409 or email bhangradanceandfitness@hotmail.com.
 We'd like to hear your ideas...
We’d like to hear from our adult residents (18+) who have learning disabilities, and their parents, carers and families, about what exercise and physical activities they’d like to take part in on a regular basis in Telford and Wrekin.
Ideas we have been given so far include gym sessions, walking, sailing, multi-sports, cycling and aqua aerobics.
We’re after any other ideas of activities people would like to see on offer for adults with a learning disability.
We’d like to put them together into co-produced grant-funded project, especially designed for this community.
Being active is important for the health and wellbeing of all of us, but physical activity can be even more important for some communities, such as adults with learning disabilities.
Physical activity, exercise and sport is good for overall health and fitness, losing weight, improving confidence, memory and sleep. Exercise also reduces the chance of health issues like diabetes and heart disease, teaches new skills and is good for making new friends.
If you have any activity suggestions please get in touch via healthimprovement@telford.gov.uk
 Did you know...
If you are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under the age of 4, you could be entitled to a Healthy Start Card to use to buy healthy foods and milk.
Who can apply
If you get Universal Credit, you can apply online if:
- you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have at least one child under 4 years old,
- your family’s monthly ‘take-home pay’ (also called ‘earned income’) is £408 or less from employment.
If you get Child Tax Credit, you may be eligible for Healthy Start if:
- your family’s annual income is £16,190 or less,
- you do not get Working Tax Credit.
Visit the NHS Healthy Start webpage for more information and to apply.
If you are eligible your Healthy Start Card with money on can be used in some UK shops and is topped up every 4 weeks.
How much will I get for my children?
- £4.25 each week of your pregnancy (from the 10th week of your pregnancy)
- £8.50 each week for children from birth to 1 year old
- £4.25 each week for children between 1 and 4 years old
Your money will stop after your child’s fourth birthday, or if you no longer receive benefits.
You can use your card to buy:
- plain liquid cow’s milk
- fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables
- fresh, dried, and tinned pulses
- infant formula milk based on cow’s milk
Visit the NHS Health Start webpage for more information.
 Is today the day you make your Healthy Telford pledge?
The Healthy Telford pledge is a 12 week email campaign to support you to make small simple changes to benefit your health and wellbeing. It focuses on creating healthier habits and supports you to find the motivation to make a change.
When joining the campaign, you'll be asked to make a pledge - anything from cooking more homemade meals, to moving more, or starting your journey to quit smoking. The pledge helps to keep you accountable to the changes you want to make and gives you something to aim for.
Throughout the 12 weeks you’ll receive bitesize tips on a range of topics including food portions, being active, reducing alcohol intake and more as well as weekly challenges to help you form lifestyle habits.
Anyone who completes the 12 week pledge will have the opportunity to enter into our raffle prize draw to win one of our selection of prizes, which include supermarket vouchers, gym memberships and more!
Visit the Healthy Telford website for more advice and information about living a happier, healthier life.
 Little Sensory Story Explorers sessions under 5s
Join Sal Tonge on a sensory adventure for under 5s with books, songs and sensory play at Stirchley Community Library from 1.30pm to 2.30pm, on the following dates:
- Friday 8 November
- Friday 15 November
- Friday 22 November
- Friday 29 November
- Friday 6 December
- Friday 13 December
Places are free, but booking is essential.
 We usually like to end with a quiz...
But this month we want to share with you the work of one of our Stop Smoking Advisors, who wrote the following poem about the journey towards being 12 weeks smoke free:
Before this journey had begun
I’d dreamt of sprinting the parkrun
But since I smoked, I hardly walked
Just coughed and spluttered as I talked
I’d reek of ashtrays from The Crown
And aging lines saw my face frown
My teeth were stained all yellow brown
Inside, I’d often feel quite down
Although I’d heard that others tried
To pack it in before they died
I’d never given it a go
My confidence was really low
Then came a day I felt quite rough
Went dizzy, shaky, out of puff
Stubbed out my cig and said ‘ENOUGH!’
And asked for help, which was quite tough
Rang Healthy Lifestyles purple crew
A number ending 5 8 2
Support was great, with one small catch
They never gave me a single patch!
Yet what they did provide was gold
And as my journey would unfold
Together we would tweak routine,
Distract, delay, from habit wean
With weekly help, behaviour changed
From cigarettes I was estranged
Though through the days came many tests
I chose my future to invest
The other day I reached 12 weeks!
With a healthy glow around my cheeks
An extra grand inside my purse
No more requests to see a nurse
Then yesterday I lived my dream
And ran full-race with parkrun team
A journey which is just the start
Of a brand new life with my hope-filled heart.
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