Tag: advice

Ask the GP – live webinar for Polish community tomorrow

“ASK THE GP” The only public live meeting with the Polish GP in Scotland on Covid-19 vaccination for the Polish Community

“ZAPYTAJ GP” Jedyne takie spotkanie z polskim lekarzem w Szkocji na temat szczepień na Covid-19 [ENG]

In response to the needs of the Polish community in Scotland, Feniks would like to invite you to a live webinar with Dr Piotr Konieczny, a Polish GP in Edinburgh who specialises in ENT and is a member of the Royal College of General Practitioners.

During this meeting, the expert will answer the most frequently asked questions about Covid-19 vaccination.

Ask a question prior to the meeting: https://bit.ly/pytaniadoGP

SAVE THE DATE: Thursday, 12 August, 19.30 (the UK time)

The meeting will be held live on Feniks’s Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/Feniks.Support.Services

There is no need to register, but in case you do not want to miss this meeting you can sign up to the Facebook event (a notification will show up an hour before the event): https://www.facebook.com/events/845324889457595

A recording of the meeting will be made available on Feniks Facebook page and on YouTube. The discussion will be held in Polish.[PL]

“ZAPYTAJ GP” Jedyne takie spotkanie z polskim lekarzem w Szkocji na temat szczepień na Covid-19

Odpowiadając na zapotrzebowanie polskiej społeczności w Szkocji zapraszamy na spotkanie informacyjne online z dr Piotrem Koniecznym, polskim lekarzem rodzinnym w Edynburgu specjalizującym się w laryngologii, członkiem Royal College of General Practitioners. W czasie spotkania ekspert odpowie na pytania na temat szczepień przeciwko Covid-19, które można zadawać w poniższym kwestionariuszu.

Zachęcamy do zadawania pytań przed spotkaniem:
https://bit.ly/pytaniadoGP

NIE PRZEGAP: Czwartek, 12 sierpnia, godz. 19.30 (czasu brytyjskiego)

Nie trzeba się rejestrować, ale zachęcamy do dołączenia do wydarzenia na Facebooku (przypomnienie o wydarzeniu pojawi się na godzinę przed): https://www.facebook.com/events/845324889457595

Spotkanie odbędzie się live na profilu facebookowym Feniksa: https://www.facebook.com/Feniks.Support.Services

Nagranie ze spotkania zostanie zapisane i udostępnione na profilu Feniksa na Facebooku oraz na YouTube. Rozmowa odbędzie się w języku polskim.

Acas urges workers to speak to their bosses about taking holidays

4 in 10 report taking less time off during pandemic

New research by Acas has found that around 4 in 10 British employees (39%) have taken less paid time off work during the pandemic compared to before it started.

Acas commissioned YouGov to ask British employees workers about how much annual leave or paid time off they had taken since the start of the pandemic when compared to previous years. The poll also found that the results varied depending on the size of the organisation:

Acas advice is that it is important for people to take time off to get rest, to keep both physically and mentally healthy and to use their holiday entitlement within their current leave year where they can.

Susan Clews, Acas Chief Executive, said: “Our poll findings are unsurprising as many workers may have taken advantage of a new law introduced last year, which allows them to carry over most of their paid time off into this year.

“Whilst the easing of pandemic restrictions is good news for many businesses, many staff will be keen to use up the leave they have saved up to take advantage of the summer season.

“Acas advice is for employees to agree any holiday plans with their managers and keep them updated on any new COVID developments that could impact work such as travel quarantine or being asked to self-isolate.”

Acas has advice for employers and employees on taking leave, what the rules are and what has changed as well as information on what to do if you need to self-isolate when returning from abroad.

In 2020, the Government introduced a law allowing employees and workers to carry over up to four weeks statutory paid holiday into their next two holiday leave years. This law applies for any holiday that staff do not take due to COVID-19.

Acas advice on taking paid time off includes:

  • Workers should try and make requests for paid holiday throughout their holiday year;
  • If holiday plans suddenly change due to COVID-19 then employees should get in touch with their boss to agree alternative options for time off; and
  • Get any time off requests in as soon as possible as employers need to plan staff cover for their businesses and are unlikely to agree staff all taking holiday at the same time.

It’s important to check the latest Government guidance before and after travelling:

  • People who need to self-isolate should not leave their home to go to work but can work from home if it’s agreed with their employer;
  • If an employee cannot do their job from home, they should talk to their employer to agree what type of leave to use;
  • Employees and workers are not entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if they’re self-isolating after travel abroad and cannot work from home. But an employer can choose to pay them sick pay at the same rate as SSP or a higher rate if they want to.

For the full Acas advice on paid time off please visit, https://www.acas.org.uk/holiday-sickness-leave and for self isolation please visit, https://www.acas.org.uk/coronavirus/self-isolation-and-sick-pay

Met Office: Tips for keeping cool in hot weather

Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too long, there are health risks.

In England, there are on average 2000 heat-related deaths every year. If hot weather hits this summer, make sure it does not harm you or anyone you know. The heat can affect anyone, but some people are at greater risk from it.

For some people – especially older people and those with underlying health conditions, as well as those who can’t adapt their behaviour to keep cool or who are exposed to high levels of heat because of where they live or work – the summer heat can bring real health risks. As our climate changes, hot spells are expected to be more frequent and more intense. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is especially important that you know what actions to take to keep yourself and others safe from high temperatures.

Why is a heatwave a problem?

The main health risks posed by a heatwave are:

  • Not having enough water (dehydration).
  • Overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing.
  • Heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which are potentially serious conditions that can occur if you get too hot.

Tips for coping in hot weather this summer:

Public Health England has published a number of resources outlining the risks of heat during COVID-19 and actions you can take to protect yourself and others. These include a ‘Beat the Heat: coping with heat and COVID-19’ leaflet and poster and a checklist to help keep your home cool, which are available on the Heatwave plan for England collection page. This also includes tips on how you can look out for others safely, whilst following guidance on COVID-19.

Watch out for signs of heat-related illness

If you or someone else feels unwell with a high temperature during hot weather or after physical exertion, you should stay alert to the possibility of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Find out more about the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and when to get help. 

The top ways to stay safe when the heat arrives are to: 

  • Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated. Older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.
  • If you live alone, ask a relative or friend to phone to check that you are not having difficulties during periods of extreme heat.
  • Stay cool indoors: some of us will spend more time at home this summer so know how to keep your home cool.
  • Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
  • If going outdoors, use cool spaces considerately, keep your distance in line with social distancing guidelines. 
  • Follow COVID-19 social distancing guidance and wash your hands regularly.
  • Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol. 
  • Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
  • Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest.
  • Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat.
  • Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
  • Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling.
  • Check the latest weather forecast and temperature warnings – you can find these on TV, radio, mobile app or website.
  • During warm weather going for a swim can provide much welcomed relief, take care and follow local safety advice, if you are going into open water to cool down.
  • Remember that while COVID-19 restrictions are in place, you will need to follow any additional government guidance to use public spaces safely.

If you have concerns about an uncomfortably hot house that’s affecting your health or someone else’s, get medical advice.
You can also get help from the environmental health office at your local authority. They, or an approved local provider, can inspect a home for hazards to health, including excess heat. Find your local authority here.

In addition, Age UK offers a range of free information and advice designed to help older people live well during the summer months and protect themselves when the temperature rises. For more information visit Age UK‘s website.

Sextortion: Webcam Blackmail

Criminals befriend victims online using fake identities, persuade them to perform sexual acts in front of a webcam, often by using attractive women/men to entice the victim to participate.

The webcam videos are recorded, then used by threatening to share them with the victims’ friends & family, unless the victim pays money.

The best way to protect potential victims is to encourage them to be careful about whom you befriend online just as you would offline, especially when considering sharing intimate images.

For further help and support, visit Police Scotland website:- 

http://ow.ly/SZrY50FuHMd

Outdoor fire safety message pitched at campers

Safety advice to prevent avoidable fires in the Scottish countryside is being pitched at campers this summer.

Warmer weather and the increased numbers of people visiting the countryside as pandemic restrictions ease create a greater risk of fire.

Not using candles in tents or never leaving camp fires unattended are just some of the tips being highlighted for a safer summer.

The advice comes as new data shows the number of grass fires more than doubled in some parts of Scotland last summer, such as Aberdeenshire & Moray and Highland – see table below.

A nationwide increase of nine percent was recorded, with incidents going up across Argyll & Bute, East and West Dunbartonshire, East Lothian, Midlothian and Scottish Borders, Edinburgh City, Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Fife, as well as Aberdeen City.

Between June 22 and August 24, 2020, fires affecting grassland, woodland and crops went up from 656 total incidents in 2019 to 712 in 2020.

Many outdoor fires are started deliberately or are due to careless or irresponsible behaviour.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Alasdair Perry, SFRS Head of Prevention and Protection, said: “We want people to enjoy spending time outdoors, but it’s important to create a safe environment for you, your loved-ones and the surrounding environment because even small fires have the potential to turn into a wildfire.

“Before lighting any outdoor fires, check for any restrictions or permissions required by the landowner and make sure you use a fire safe pit or container that can be properly extinguished before you leave.

“The vast majority of us wish to keep our country beautiful, but litter can seriously injure wildlife and items such as glass bottles in strong sunlight have the potential to start a fire. Remember to keep your area tidy and always clear up when done.”

There are also other dangers associated with camping as DACO Perry continued:

“Be aware that fire destroys tents very quickly, so use torches instead of candles.

“Never take a portable or disposable barbeque inside a tent to cook or to use as a heat source because Carbon Monoxide is also a potential risk.

“And gas barbeques should also be used in a well-ventilated area.”

Those choosing to go away in caravans for a staycation are also being reminded to have a working smoke alarm fitted.

A fire in a caravan or mobile home spreads much more quickly than it would in a house or flat and there are on average almost 100 caravan fires in Scotland every year.

Summer also brings with it the temptation to swim outdoors, but lochs, rivers and reservoirs also pose a risk to those enjoying nature.

Cold water shock can leave people gasping for breath and it’s potentially fatal. Therefore, the advice is to avoid unsupervised waterways.

More safer summer advice can be found online at: 

https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/safer-summer.aspx

Don’t forget – if you’re leaving your home for an extended period of time this summer, remember to switch off electrical appliances before you set off.

All grassland, woodland and crop fires:

LSO Area24/06/2019 to 26/08/201922/06/2020 to 24/08/2020
Aberdeen City2327
Aberdeenshire, Moray2765
Angus,Dundee City, Perth & Kinross5555
Argyll & Bute, East Dunbartonshire, West Dunbartonshire1322
Dumfries & Galloway158
East Ayrshire, North Ayrshire, South Ayrshire7756
East Lothian,Midlothian, Scottish Borders4246
East Renfrewshire, Inverclyde, Renfrewshire3830
Edinburgh City5982
Falkirk, West Lothian8174
Glasgow City5452
Highland3265
Na h-Eileanan Siar, Orkney Islands, Shetland Islands22
North Lanarkshire3324
South Lanarkshire3731
Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Fife6873
TOTAL656712

Young people speak up to give drowning the boot

National lifesaving charity warns there could be a steep  increase in accidental drownings this summer 

A rise in drowning figures has prompted the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK)  to encourage parents to teach their children how to stay safe and enjoy water safely  this summer, as part of its national Drowning Prevention Week campaign, 19-26 June  2021. 

Throughout 2020 and 2021, millions of children have missed out on vital swimming, lifesaving  skills and water safety education during the pandemic due to pool closures, leaving a dramatic  gap in school swimming and water safety education.  

Young people from low incomes and ethnic minority communities have been the hardest hit.  A staggering 95 per cent of black adults and 80 per cent of black children do not swim, and  this gap has widened still further as a result of Covid-19. 

Accidental drowning takes an average of 402 UK and Irish citizens each year, and the Royal  Life Saving Society UK fears that with lockdown restrictions lifting and staycations on the up, families will flock to inland water locations and beaches this summer, without the right  knowledge and skills, putting themselves and others at risk.  

Fourteen-year-old Teya Davies tragically died after slipping into Sniggy Pond in Widnes, trying  to help her friend who had fallen into the water before her.

Teya’s story is not a ‘one off’- it’s  one of many, so RLSS UK has teamed up with Teya’s friends and family to create a powerful  video highlighting the importance of water safety, in Teya’s honour.  

Teya’s friend, Liv Eren said: “We sadly lost our friend, Teya, at the age of 14. When looking  back on Teya’s story, we now know how preventable her death could have been if only she  knew how to swim, or to keep herself safe in the water.

“We are pleased to do our bit to prevent  others from going through the heartache of losing a friend like we have.” 

RLSS UK’s Charity Director Lee Heard, said: “We are surrounded by opportunities to be in or  near water. Whatever their age and activity level, everyone should be having fun, creating  memories and feeling at ease around the water. The inequality in access to swimming and  water safety education, and subsequent lack of potential interaction with the water is a big concern.  

“RLSS UK believes that through free, accessible education and training, everyone can enjoy  water safely, have fun in the water and develop an essential life skill. We urge as many parents  and carers as possible to get involved with the campaign, use our free online resources, and  give children the skills to enjoy a lifetime of fun in the water.”

Schools Minister Nick Gibb said: “We want every primary school pupil to learn to swim and to  have water safety lessons, not just because it can improve their physical health but also  because it is an important life skill.  

“The Royal Life Saving Society UK’s work in raising awareness about the importance of water  safety is very welcome, adding to the work we continue to do with schools to promote water  safety and swimming.  

“We must do all we can to eliminate the tragedy of children drowning.” 

Statistics (based on five-year average totals) show:  

• Over 55% of parents surveyed said they would not be confident their child would know what to  do if they fell into open water 

• 1 in 3 of those surveyed said their swimming abilities limited the activities they could do • Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in children and the risk of drowning increases  from the age of 15 

• More than 46% never intended to be in water 

• 62.4% of accidental drowning happen in inland water 

• Over 80% of those who drown accidently, are male 

Drowning Prevention Week aims to equip everybody across the UK and Ireland with the skills and  knowledge, to make the right decisions about water safety. 

The Royal Life Saving Society UK believes that drowning is preventable and that even one drowning is  one too many. The Charity has produced a range of free water safety advice, resources and online  lessons to help parents, schools, leisure centres and other organisations to teach water safety to  children.  

Edinburgh Staycation: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Western Honda Edinburgh offers some handy tips and advice

As temperatures begin to rise, staycation season will soon be upon us. With 4 in 5 Brits (84%) planning a UK break this summer, we know that many people will be setting out on a road trip.

As with any long journey, it’s really important to make sure cars are in the best possible condition, and can deal with whatever the trip might throw at them.

To make sure your vehicle is in the best shape possible, Western Honda Edinburgh has created the ultimate road trip guide. With invaluable vehicle and travel tips, it’s sure to help you get the most out of your summer journeys:

  1. Do the ‘Big Three’ checks ahead of the journey – There are three key checks to do before you set off. Tyre pressure, washer fluid and engine oil levels should be monitored before any long trip. Many car owners especially forget to check their engine oil levels, which is vital to keep internal parts moving as they should. If the oil level in your engine drops too low, it’ll stop working efficiency and could even lead to significant engine damage.
  1. Bring the fun – A key part of any road trip is ensuring that the fun never stops. This is often difficult on long car journeys, so why not avoid the 100th round of ‘I Spy’ by bringing travel board games for your passengers? Crosswords or Card Games are a great way to pass the time and inject some competitive spirit into your journey. As well as games, make sure you bring in-car snacks too, to keep your passengers fed and happy throughout the journey.  From a full picnic to crisps and sweets, it’ll be sure to maintain the energy levels throughout your trip.
  1. Packing – Perhaps the most obvious of all is making sure you’re packed for your destination! What would a summer road trip be without the luggage, bikes and snack bags that are essential for a summer day out. Squeezing everything in can be a challenge, but our range of Honda vehicles has been designed with space in mind. From roof-bars to bike-racks, our host of innovative space-saving features will ensure your road trip has everything you need.

Aftersales Manager, Jonathan Wilson  from  Western  Honda commented: “Now that the warmer months are upon us, it is really important to consider the impact longer road trips will have on your car.

“Not only to avoid any potential damage, but to make sure you are keeping safe on the road. Whatever your needs, we are always here to offer help or advice on this. Simply pick up the phone and our expert team will be delighted to help.”

For those keen to purchase a new car, the Western Honda Edinburgh range features the all-electric Honda e alongside our popular Jazz and CR-V Hybrid models.

The dealership is now back open and welcoming shoppers. Extensive measures have been put in place to keep the process as safe as possible, including staggered appointment times and sanitisation stations for staff and customers. This also includes the thorough cleaning of all vehicles before and after handover.  

According to a recent study, Cornwall is among the most sought-after destinations in Europe for road trips. With 78 boards dedicated to the county on social media site Pinterest, the picturesque coast has also seen a surge in Google searches, with a 50% increase in people searching for ‘Cornwall’ from January 2021 to March 2021. 

With that in mind, Edinburgh Honda have pulled together a list of the UK’s best road trip routes, so why not try visiting some of the following spots on your summer journey?:

  • Wild Wales – Explore some of the UK’s most stunning scenery with a drive through Snowdonia National Park and out to the Menai Strait. Starting at Betws-y-Coed, head west past Swallow Falls and into the heart of Snowdonia. Outside the park, take the scenic route via Caernarfon, before heading over the water to explore the beautiful Isle of Anglesey.
    • Route Distance: 50 miles
  • Peak District National Park – Why not take a tour through one of the country’s most beloved national parks, the Peak District. Start in Glossop and head into the Pennines via the famous Snake Pass. A small detour to the south-west will take you to the Blue John Cavern, a cave system that’s ideal for an exciting alternative to rambling. For even more of a thrill, take to the skies with Derwent Valley’s cable car.
    • Route Distance: 40 miles
  • Atlantic Highway – The A39 is a long stretch of road in South West England, running between Bath to Falmouth. A particularly picturesque part is from Barnstaple in Devon to the Cornish seaside resort of Newquay. Just a short journey from the road are breath-taking views of the Atlantic as you pass through Bude, Camelford and Wadebridge. Active groups will love walking and cycling through North Devon’s Adventure Coast.
    • Route Distance: 77 miles
  • Norfolk Coast – England’s eastern coastline is full of scenic waterways and wildlife, so starting out from Norwich, take the coast road north towards Cromer for a traditional seaside resort. Further along the coast, Brancaster Beach is the perfect option for an afternoon on the sand. With more than 40 miles of sandy shores and six Blue Flag beaches, Norfolk is also home to the country’s largest seal colony at Blakeney Point.
    • Route Distance: 90 miles
  • The UK’s Route 66 – For the ultimate summer road trip, why not venture up to Scotland to enjoy some of the UK’s most spectacular vistas. Starting and ending at Inverness Castle, The North Coast 500 goes via Ullapool, Durness, John O’Groats and Dornoch. A full 500 miles in length, it’s advisable to book accommodation well in advance. Plenty of adventurous opportunities exist on route, with surfing, canyoning and diving all available to beginners.
    • Route Distance: 516 miles

Contact your local Honda dealership on 0131 657 3000 or email 

info@westernhonda.co.uk 

to get yourself road trip ready with Western Honda  today.

NHS Lothian: right care, right place for minor injuries

If you have a minor injury please call 111 free to be referred to the right service.

They will arrange an appointment if you need to attend hospital. Or, if appropriate, they can schedule an appointment for a confidential assessment by video call with a Nurse practitioner.