Tag: Health and wellbeing

National Trust for Scotland: Improve your mental wellbeing by heading outdoors this winter

  • New survey by Scotland’s largest conservation charity shows the positive impact the outdoors has on mental health and wellbeing
  • 93% of people across Edinburgh and the Lothians stated spending time outdoors reduces their stress levels and 91% said it enhanced their quality of life

New research for the National Trust for Scotland shows that 98% of Scots in Edinburgh and the Lothians believe access to the outdoors is important for their mental health, a point that is particularly significant at this time of year when wintery weather and dark nights can deter people from spending time outside.

The research for Scotland’s largest conservation charity found that 93% of those surveyed in Edinburgh and the Lothians said spending time outdoors was effective at reducing their stress levels, with 91% stating that it enhances their quality of life.

Across Scotland’s cities, Dundonians have been unveiled as the strongest advocates for spending time outdoors, with 99% agreeing it’s important for their overall wellbeing, closely followed by Inverness (97%) and Glasgow (96%).

The Scottish coast topped the polls as the preferred place to spend time outdoors, with 58% enjoying spending time by the sea, followed by 50% who favoured woodland spaces and 48% favouring country parks or gardens. The popularity of different types of landscape, and their value to people’s wellbeing, has highlighted the importance of the National Trust Scotland’s work to care for, protect and share Scotland’s outdoor places.

Looking after over 100 places across Scotland, the Trust ensures people of all ages have the opportunity now and in future to discover new places, make memories, and learn more about Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage, while experiencing the positive wellbeing impacts of the outdoors.

These range from Newhailes, known for its woodland walks in the 18th-century designed landscape and its Weehailes Adventure Playpark, to beautiful Malleny Garden where people of all ages come to escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital.

Stuart Maxwell, Regional Director for Edinburgh and the East at the National Trust for Scotland, said: “Our charity is privileged to look after some of the country’s most beautiful natural heritage, and every day we see the positive impact that the great outdoors can have on wellbeing and mental health.

“It doesn’t have to be an epic climb of a mountain, or extreme water sports, it can be as simple as a walk around a peaceful garden or the bracing Scottish coastline. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, to make new memories with friends, or share a new experience with a loved one, there’s a place and activity for everyone.

“All of us at the National Trust for Scotland are proud to play our part in looking after and providing access to outdoor places, to continue to offer residents and visitors to our incredible country the chance to make the most of the positive wellbeing impacts of the outdoors.

“It’s thanks to the generosity of our members and supporters that we can continue our vital work of caring for and sharing Scotland’s most special places, helping to create memories that last a lifetime.”

Supporting its work to share the benefits of nature and the outdoors, the National Trust for Scotland appointed Dr Cal Major, vet, adventurer and advocate for nature and the oceans, as its ambassador in 2023.

Speaking frequently about how the outdoors has enhanced her own mental wellbeing, Cal’s role as ambassador is helping to raise awareness of and support for the Trust’s important work, particularly around the conservation of natural spaces.

Commenting on the research results, Cal said: “Over the course of my career, I have discovered that an appreciation of what it means for their wellbeing is why lots of folk feel a strong connection to nature. This often translates into a recognition of its importance in their lives and a desire to protect it.

“Beyond the National Trust for Scotland’s survey results, there is scientific research showing that nature, especially blue spaces such as the ocean, is beneficial for our human wellbeing. This seems logical – as humans, historically we would have been hard-pushed to survive without it, so it’s no wonder we’re drawn to it.

“But in our modern society, which is so fast-paced and disconnected from nature, making space for it in our lives has never been more important. And equally, nature has never needed us to stand up for its protection more.

“It can offer joy and laughter and connection to other people, an opportunity to top up our nature batteries and stay well, or a path to healing. For me, the outdoors is very much my go-to for staying well, and it is hugely reaffirming to hear this is the case for many other people around Scotland.”

To find out more about the work of the National Trust for Scotland, or plan your next outdoor adventure, please visit: www.nts.org.uk.

Edinburgh residents who smoke urged to make quitting their goal in 2024

 People who smoke in Edinburgh are being urged to set the goal of leaving tobacco behind in 2024. 

Charity ASH Scotland is campaigning to improve the physical and mental health of people who smoke by encouraging them to use free expert stop smoking support provided by the NHS. 

Quitting is one of the biggest proactive steps people in Edinburgh who smoke can take to quickly improve health and mental wellbeing, reduce the risk of longer term illness and also save money. 

If a person who smokes decides to make a New Year’s resolution and starts to quit, not only will they find their health will improve by the end of January, in one month an average smoker could also save in the region of £250. 

Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive of ASH Scotland, said: “Tobacco is highly addictive and, although it can take a number of attempts to quit, some people find giving up cigarettes or tobacco easier than they had thought. 

“Don’t be discouraged if you’ve tried before, you’ll have learned something valuable about what did and didn’t work for you it is the best thing you can do for your health, finances and for those around you. 

“You don’t have to quit on your own in the New Year. We’re encouraging people in Edinburgh to seek person-centred support from local stop smoking services or the national stop-smoking service Quit Your Way Scotland. Getting support will give you the confidence to move forward with your quit journey and the tools you need to make the best possible start to 2024.” 

Contact Quit Your Way Scotland by visiting www.QuitYourWay.Scot or by calling the free helpline on 0800 848484. 

ASH Scotland is tackling tobacco head-on by campaigning to reduce the harms caused by smoking.

For more information, follow the health charity’s social media channels on Instagram and Facebook. 

Are you Jan-U-READY? 

Edinburgh Leisure offers insights into the upcoming fitness trends in 2024

As the world ushers in another year, the mantra “New Year, New You” takes centre stage, and fitness enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the trends that will shape their wellness journeys in 2024. Ally Strachan, Fitness Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure, offers insights into the upcoming fitness trends.

With unlimited access to their 12 pools,17 gyms, indoor climbing and over 750+ fitness classes each week, Edinburgh Leisure has a new membership promotion that runs from 1st – 31st January 2024 and offers new members joining in January a no-joining-fee offer.

As we step into 2024, wherever you’re at in life, Edinburgh Leisure provides a diverse array of fitness options, catering to individual preferences and goals.

Here’s what Ally Strachan believes are set to dominate the scene in 2024:

1. Wearable Tech Takes the Lead

Wearable technology is not a fleeting trend; it’s here to stay. Devices like Apple Watches and Fitbits continue to empower users by tracking exercise and activity data. Myzone, with its focus on specific exercise bouts and intensity levels, offers a more targeted approach. It’s also great for those who don’t want to be consumed by 24 hours’ worth of data.

2. Studio Strength and Toning

For those who shy away from the free weights area in the gym, studio strength and toning sessions are gaining popularity. You get all the benefits of group-based training and still get to develop a sweat. This January, Edinburgh Leisure introduces two new Les Mills classes—Shapes, a mind and body fusion of Power Yoga, Pilates, and Barre, and Strength Development, a sequence of 12 progressive workouts designed to build muscle and enhance lifting techniques.

3. Embracing LISS (Low Intensity Steady State)

In contrast to the high-intensity (HIIT) craze, which can be very taxing and requires more recovery, Low Intensity Steady State (LISS) training seems to be on more people’s lips than in previous years.

Ally says “I wouldn’t replace all of your high intensity training with LISS; however I would supplement LISS to a current exercise plan. By keeping it low intensity (60-65% max HR or low blue zone on your Myzone), this is something that can be done every day, by getting in more steps and increasing non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) to burn body fat. Take the stairs where possible or take a small walk every day.

4. Rise of Hybrid Training

Hybrid training is a growing trend with the likes of HYROX competitions taking place across the world. Combining cardiovascular and resistance-based methods in a single session, is gaining traction. Ally advises caution due to its intensity, suggesting consultation with Edinburgh Leisure’s knowledgeable gym staff to programme a workout effectively and safely according to individual fitness levels.

5. Body Composition Takes Centre Stage

While the fitness industry has long advocated for ignoring the number on a set of scales and more traditional metrics like BMI, newer technology allows for more accurate body composition testing. With Boditrax kiosks at The Royal Commonwealth Pool, Meadowbank, Drumbrae Leisure Centre, Leith Victoria Swim Centre and Glenogle Leisure Centre, this console offers customers the ability to track their progress conveniently via an app.  There’s no better time to do this than in January when you’re already super motivated to make some great progress in your health and wellbeing.

6. Strength and Resistance Training Soars

The benefits of strength and resistance training extend beyond a sculpted physique. Improved posture, metabolism, bone density, joint strength, injury risk reduction, balance, and enhanced body composition are just a few of the advantages. Edinburgh Leisure’s gym team is ready to assist in creating personalised plans for optimal results.

7. Mind and Body Workouts for Holistic Wellness

Mind and body workouts such as Yoga, Pilates, and the new Les Mills Shapes class focus on both mental and physical well-being. These classes provide relaxation, stress relief, and mindfulness, catering to beginners and seasoned group fitness enthusiasts alike. In 2024 with an Edinburgh Leisure membership, you can enjoy the choice of over 300 Pilates, Yoga, Les Mills Shapes and Bodybalance classes – the best variety, choice and cost-effective mind and body classes in Edinburgh.

8. Functional Training for Everyday Life

Functional training mimics daily activities to build a stronger body and mind for everyday life. Think shoulder presses mimicking lifting something heavy onto a shelf, or weighted squats allowing you to get low to the floor with ease to play with your children or pets. Workouts such as Les Mills Strength Development, L1FT, Bodypump and Gym Blast classes use weight plates, barbells, dumbbells, and your own bodyweight to improve performance, mobility, strength, and stamina not just in your fitness classes, but in everyday life.

9. Get Fit For Surgery Programme
Acknowledging the aging process, Edinburgh Leisure introduced a pilot referral “Get Fit For Surgery” programme in 2023. This 16-week initiative supports individuals awaiting hip and knee surgeries, enhancing overall health and well-being through fitness, strength building, and increased confidence.

10. Employee Wellbeing Initiatives
Investing in employee wellbeing yields significant rewards. Edinburgh Leisure not only prioritises customer health but also supports staff with access to facilities as a job perk. One of the roles of their dedicated Director of Wellbeing is focusing on corporate initiatives to support staff’s mental and physical wellbeing.

If you want to invest in your staff’s wellbeing, get in touch to discuss their Corporate Membership, which provides unlimited access to our gyms, swimming pools, and fitness classes at discounted prices.

As we step into 2024, wherever you’re at on the map or in life, Edinburgh Leisure provides a diverse array of fitness options, catering to individual preferences and goals.

Whether you’re a tech-savvy tracker, a studio enthusiast, or someone embracing a holistic wellness approach, the fitness trends of the year promise exciting and transformative experiences. Embrace the New Year and let your fitness journey unfold with the guidance and support of Edinburgh Leisure.

#januREADY.

More information:  www.edinburghleisure.co.uk

Committee calls for development of bacteria-killing viruses

In a major report today Westminster’s Science, Innovation & Technology Committee calls for steps to develop the potential of bacteria-killing viruses – called bacteriophages or phages for short – that can provide an alternative to antibiotics that are attracting growing resistance.

Phages have been used as therapy for over a hundred years, but interest has increased in recent years as the widespread use of antibiotics is leading to alarming antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to even the most effective treatments. But they have never been licensed for therapeutic use in the UK. They have only been used as “compassionate” treatments of last resort in isolated cases of otherwise intractable infections.

One of the problems has been an impasse: in order to be deployed in clinical trials phages must be manufactured to the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standard – but investment in compliant manufacturing plants will only be justified following successful clinical trials.

Rt Hon Greg Clark MP, Chair of the Committee, said:  “Phages offer a possible response to the increasing worldwide concerns about antimicrobial resistance.

“But the development of phage therapies is at an impasse, in which clinical trials need new advanced manufacturing plants, but investment requires clinical trails to have demonstrated efficacy.

“The Committee is asking the Government to consider whether the mothballed Rosalind Franklin Laboratory in the West Midlands could provide a suitable facility.

“The Laboratory, which has already received over £1 billion of public funding, was established by the Government to bring to an end the inadequacy of testing capacity that so hampered the national response to Covid.

“It consists of modern, secure laboratory facilities and was meant to be an important source of national resilience against future pandemics. But the Rosalind Franklin Laboratory has suddenly appeared for sale on the property website Rightmove, to the astonishment of the science and health communities.

“Our Committee’s report on phages asks for the Rosalind Franklin Laboratory to be considered for this purpose, rather than be lost to the nation and to science in a firesale.”

The Committee recommends that the Government should consider establishing a small GMP facility on the lines of the Catapult network which provides shared facilities for companies who cannot afford to make the level of investment on their own.

The Committee also calls on the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC), and phage researchers to work together to make for a more promising route for phage research to be funded and its products licensed for use. 

The Committee calls for:

  • Awareness-raising for healthcare students and professionals of the antimicrobial potential of phages where antibiotics have failed or are failing
  • Government and its agencies to make a definitive and positive statement on the role of phages in the national approach to anti-microbial resistance (AMR), which is important in research funding decisions and for private investment in commercial phages
  • The MHRA to consider allowing the compassionate use of non-GMP phages produced in the UK for last resort medical cases where other medical approaches have failed or are failing
  • The MHRA to review how current regulations would govern liability for clinicians and hospitals who used UK non-GMP phages,

Seven Steps to help get you through Dry January

TRANSFORM YOUR HEALTH IN 2024

PEOPLE embarking on Dry January need to wait at least 10 days before they see the full impact of ditching the booze, a top expert has explained. 

Counsellor and author Lynn Crilly said removing alcohol from your life for a month can bring “huge health benefits” that can set you on a path to a healthier and happier 2024.

Lynn said: “For moderate drinkers going alcohol free for a month can be challenging, but it is achievable and healthy. The same may not be the case for daily drinkers or those more dependent on alcohol and these people should seek professional advice and support before they do so.

“The first few days are likely to be the hardest as there may be some withdrawal symptoms such as difficulty in sleeping, and you are likely to also experience some hangover-like symptoms such as cloudy head, agitation, tiredness potentially this is due to lack of hydration. 

“By day five you may be craving sugar that the alcohol is no longer giving you, but on the plus side you should feel sharper and notice an improvement in your concentration. By day seven it gets even better because your sleep should improve significantly. By day ten you should be feeling less sluggish, more energised, and raring to go. The full benefits will kick in.

” In the long run it reduces the risk of diabetes, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure and reduces levels of cancer related proteins in the blood.”

Outlining the main benefits of Dry January, Lynn says: 

Detox:

Taking a rest from drinking alcohol can give your liver a much-needed break and time to re heal itself from the festive overindulging.

Alcohol is known as diuretic, which means it causes you to wee more than if you just drink water, this makes it harder for the body to hydrate itself which leads to dry skin. Reducing the level of alcohol will give your skin a more refreshed look and make your eyes brighter.

Often more calories are consumed by food rather than drink, meaning a potentially higher vitamin intake, leading to your skin looking healthy and glowing.

Improved Sleep:

One of the first things that people notice when doing dry January is that their sleeping pattern improves drastically and they experience an increase in their energy levels. While alcohol can help people to fall asleep faster, the quality of the sleep is less restful and you spend less time in ‘real ‘sleep. On the other hand, days when you do not drink can lead to a much better sleep, making it far easier to wake up in the mornings.

Feeling less bloated or even drop a few pounds: Depending on how much you were drinking before you may find you shed a few pounds over the course of the month as alcohol is liquid calories which many do not replace with food, also the craved junky food at the end of a boozy evening will also be of the menu!

Save money:

If you have been regularly spending money on alcohol it can really add up and put a dent in your budget, so by not shelling out for it you could put that money by and give yourself a treat at the end of the month such as a massage or a new outfit!

TIPS ON HOW TO BE SUCCESSFUL

Begin writing a journal:

At the beginning of the month write down the reasons you wanted to take a break from the drink, and the positive changes that are being made. Then if sometime during the month you are facing a particularly challenging time refer back to the journal to remember why you started. 

Start a new workout regime:

Since drinking can leave you feeling slow and sluggish, January may be the perfect time to start a new fitness regime. Having the new surge of energy will benefit you when exercising and release those positive endorphins.

Look at new ways to cope:

If a glass of wine was your way of winding down at the end of a day, it may be worth looking at other options such as yoga, reading, meditating, going for a walk or even a hot bath with lots of bubble bath can all help you to wind down.

Look for a replacement:

If drinking has become a habit, then it is a good idea to find a replacement to sip, sparkling water with lemon juice, or pour a can of flavoured tonic water into a wine glass and sip slowly, it is surprising how quickly one habit can be replaced with another especially when it makes you feel better. 

Team Up with a friend:

It is always easier to keep motivated if you are doing Dry January with a friend. Encourage friends and family to get involved, so that you are accountable and support each other or even raise some money for charity.

Keep Busy:

The first few days will be the hardest, so it is always a good idea to have things planned to keep you busy, do things that are fun and will help to take your mind off drinking, because the less time you must think about it the easier it will become. 

Be Kind to yourself:

Drinking has become so ingrained in our culture and everyday life, whether you’re celebrating a wedding or mourning the loss of a friend, it can be difficult to abstain from alcohol for a whole month.

People are often their own worst critic and can get down on themselves – and give up on their dry month if they have one drink, but please remember the whole point of attempting a month without alcohol is not to feel bad about yourself.

The goal is to become more mindful of the role it plays in your life, if it leads to you drinking less than you normally would, then that must be a win even if you still enjoyed the odd glass of wine. 

Start 2024 in the best way with Dry January

Dear Editor,

The festive season brings excitement for many, but it can also be a time of indulgence, and perhaps drinking more alcohol than we would like. As we head into a new year, many people will be wanting to feel a little fitter and healthier.

In fact, our research shows that one in four of us would like to drink less alcohol in 2024, and one in six UK adults (16%) plan to take a break from alcohol this January.

Dry January® is the perfect place to start! It shows us that we don’t need alcohol to have fun, relax, celebrate, unwind or anything else.

What’s more, so many people tell us they have an even better time when not drinking alcohol, as they feel more present, can remember the evening more, and enjoy waking up hangover-free, feeling fresh and energetic.

We know that taking that first step to change habits can be hard, but research shows that those who take part in Dry January® from Alcohol Change UK double their chances of success, through access to our free Try Dry app, daily emails and a supportive online community.

A month off alcohol won’t just mean short-term boosts to your wellbeing, but has been proven to lead to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes risk, as well as lower cancer-related proteins in the blood.

So if you’re looking to make long-term changes for the better, take a look at dryjanuary.org.uk for more.

Pasta and Pizza: The Hangover Heroes, says doctor

Medical advisor, Dr Rashid Bani of Orange County CBD has just dropped a bombshell on traditional hangover cures. Forget the bland toast and black coffee; the real heroes for battling post-party blues are none other than the beloved duo: pasta and pizza!

The Hangover Conundrum:

Hangovers are more than just dehydration. They’re a complex cocktail of electrolyte imbalance, blood sugar fluctuations, and sleep disturbances, all thanks to our friend, alcohol. The symptoms? Headaches, nausea, and a feeling akin to being trampled by a herd of elephants.

Enter the Carb Crusaders: Pasta and Pizza

Now, here’s the twist in the tale. While you’ve probably been advised to stick to light, easy-to-digest foods, hearty carbohydrates found in pasta and pizza can be surprisingly effective in combating hangover symptoms. Let’s break it down:

Carb Power

Pasta: It’s not just comfort food; it’s a science-backed energy restorer. Pasta slowly replenishes your blood sugar levels, helping to banish that hangover lethargy.

Pizza: More than just a midnight snack, the crust delivers a much-needed blood sugar boost. Opt for healthier toppings to add nutritional value.

Secret Hydration

That tomato sauce isn’t just delicious – it’s also helping rehydrate your body, a key to hangover recovery.

Electrolyte Magic:

Cheese and tomatoes are more than toppings; they’re a powerhouse of sodium and potassium, vital for restoring electrolyte balance.

Mood Lifter:

Comfort foods have a psychological effect. A slice of pizza or a bowl of pasta might be the hug your serotonin levels need.

The Full Recovery Package: It’s Not Just About Food

While pasta and pizza can be surprisingly effective, they’re part of a broader hangover recovery strategy:

Hydration Station: Water is your best friend. Rehydrate to help your body bounce back.

Snooze to Soothe: Give your body the rest it needs to heal.

Move a Little: Light exercise can elevate your mood and energy.

Avoid More Alcohol: It only postpones the hangover.

Dr. Rashid Bani of Orange County CBD says: “In a surprising twist to hangover recovery, pasta and pizza emerge as unlikely yet effective heroes.

“So next time you find yourself battling the aftermath of a night out, remember this doctor’s advice: a slice of pizza and a bowl of pasta might just be your best allies.”

One symptom of FAST is enough to act on stroke, warns charity

Act FAST on the first sign of stroke, the Stroke Association says. The charity is concerned people are waiting for all three of the ‘FAST’ stroke symptoms to appear before raising the alarm.

In fact, the public should be treating stroke as a medical emergency when any one stroke symptom appears. – most commonly these are Face (F) or Arm (A), or Speech (S). The moment a stroke is suspected, is Time (T) to dial 999.

Face weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?

Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms?

Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?

Adam Henderson, 24 from Broxburn had a stroke at the age of 23, which initially only presented as one symptom. At the time his stroke began, he was in the hairdresser’s and noticed that as people were talking to him, he had started to grunt, and couldn’t speak properly.

Even though he only had one of the ‘FAST’ symptoms at the time, the customers realised something was seriously wrong with Adam. At this point, Adam’s arms and face were unaffected. They called his partner’s mum – a nurse, who immediately knew it was a stroke. Everyone acted quickly to get Adam the treatment he needed.

Adam said: “When I got to hospital, I couldn’t walk. My head was shaking and the need to fall asleep was overwhelming.”

John Watson, Associate Director Scotland of the Stroke Association, said: “There are amazing treatments for stroke which can prevent death and disability. However, there is a short time period to receive treatment.

“That is why immediate action is needed for any one symptom of stroke. Time lost is brain lost. A typical patient loses 1.9 million neurons each minute in which stroke is untreated, which can lead to death or disability.

“As soon as you notice any one symptom of stroke, it is time to take action. Very few people get all three of the FAST symptoms. Dial 999.”

Although Adam initially only had one FAST symptom (Speech), the inability to walk that he later developed can also be a sign of stroke:

The FAST test helps spot the three most common symptoms of stroke. But there are other signs that you should always take seriously. These include:

  • Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, including legs, hands or feet.
  • Difficulty finding words or speaking in clear sentences.
  • Sudden blurred vision or loss of sight in one or both eyes.
  • Sudden memory loss or confusion, and dizziness or a sudden fall.
  • A sudden, severe headache.

When Adam got to hospital, he was quickly wheeled in for a brain scan. The doctors decided that given the seriousness of the stroke, the type of stroke and where it was in the brain that he would be a suitable candidate for clot removal surgery, mechanical thrombectomy.

Adam was a fortunate candidate for thrombectomy, because of the speed people had in spotting his stroke, getting to hospital and receiving a diagnosis quickly. At first, Adam was displaying only one sign of stroke using the FAST test, but thankfully that was enough for those who were with him to raise the alarm.

He was put to sleep and the procedure took 20 minutes. Within ten minutes of coming round, Adam was able to walk again. Having been completely unable to do anything physically before the procedure was performed, the first thing Adam wanted and was able to do, was go and have a shower by himself.

Around one in every three people who receive a thrombectomy following their stroke will be less disabled than they otherwise would have been as a result. Around one in five will be able to function completely independently afterwards.

Thrombectomy is a suitable treatment to save lives and reduce disability for around one in every ten people who have a stroke.

John Watson, Associate Director Scotland of the Stroke Association, said: “Strokes and TIAs [aka mini-strokes] are medical emergencies even if the symptoms appear to get better or go away.

“Treatments for stroke become less suitable over time, so calling 999 as soon as possible leads to the best chance of survival and the best recovery.  Look out for any one sign of stroke using the FAST test and take immediate action. 

“No matter what festivities are happening around you, at this time of the year, or at any other time, do not delay.”

Any symptom of FAST – take action

Do not wait for all three signs to appear. Any of these signs – even one sign – means you need to take immediate action. Time to call 999.

Adam feels very fortunate that his stroke was recognised and treated as a medical emergency. He is now back at work, driving and has returned to his hobbies.

Now he is urging the public to learn how to recognise the signs of a stroke and take immediate action on should they suspect stroke.

“I was very lucky. I got to hospital fast and received this incredible treatment. Not everyone receives that treatment – one reason being the speed of a person able to identify any of the signs of stroke and taking immediate action.

“I know the people with me at the time are glad they recognised my stroke; they would have felt dreadful should it have been missed. “

John concluded: “Knowing the signs and symptoms of stroke needs to be reinforced on a regular basis to the public.

“That is why we are pleased to see a commitment from The Scottish Government in their Stroke Action Plan, to invest in the Act FAST campaign, and continue to raise awareness of the symptoms of stroke. We look forward to seeing this carried out in Scotland as soon as possible.”

Smokers encouraged to quit this new year for their health

The NHS is launching a brand new smokefree campaign to encourage all 5.3 million smokers in England to make a quit attempt this January

  • Former England goalkeeper and ex-smoker David James urges parents to quit for their kids’ sake in poignant video campaign discussing own struggles to kick the habit
  • Research shows teens more than three times as likely to smoke if their parents, caregivers or friends do
  • Comes as NHS Smokefree campaign encourages 5.3 million smokers in England to make a quit attempt this January to improve health and reduce likelihood of young people starting
  • Major new survey shows three quarters of people in England back government’s historic plans to create the first smokefree generation – regardless of age or region
  • First 259,000 vapes to be provided to authorities nationwide to support smokers to quit under world-first Swap to Stop scheme

In a hard-hitting campaign film released today, former England goalkeeper and ex-smoker David James joins a number of other ex-smokers to discuss the influence their parents’ smoking had on them taking up the habit themselves, and how being around children was their motivation to quit.

Watch the film here.

It comes as the NHS launches a brand new smokefree campaign to encourage all 5.3 million smokers in England to make a quit attempt this January – not only for their health, but also to help ensure young people are not being influenced to start smoking.

Research lays bare the stark reality – teens are more than three times as likely to smoke if their parents, caregivers, or friends do. In a new, poignant film released today, the former England goalkeeper discusses how his family members and friends smoked around him when he was a youngster, which led to him taking up the habit. In the film, he describes how smoking impacted his performance on the football world stage.  

The UK is now in the lead to be the first country in the world to create a smokefree generation by phasing out the sale of tobacco, and is set to introduce a new law to stop children who turned 14 in 2023 – or are younger – from ever legally being sold tobacco in England.

Three quarters (76%) of people in England support the principle of creating a smokefree generation a YouGov survey – commissioned by campaign group Action on Smoking and Health –has found with only 9% opposing. Support for creating a smokefree generation is similar regardless of age or region.

Former England goalkeeper, David James, said: “I smoked for about 15 years and at the time, it was normal. My mum smoked, my friends smoked, it was around me. It didn’t take long for me to be hooked.

“Looking back, it had a huge impact on my health and performance at the time, I wish I never started.

“My health, my children and my fans were huge motivators for me to quit – I didn’t want younger people to see me smoking and think it was okay.”

David James is joined by a number of other ex-smokers in the film to discuss the influence their parents’ smoking had on them taking up the habit themselves.

Watch the film here.

They are accompanied by Nick Hopkinson, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at Imperial College London, who was involved with the UK Millennium Cohort Study research, and TV doctor, Dr Sarah Jarvis, who talks through the wider impact of generational smoking.

Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, said: “Smoking causes a range of diseases that affect people throughout their lives.

“Stopping people becoming addicted to smoking, and helping those who have been addicted to quit are two of the most important measures we can take to improve health.

“Quitting will improve your health whatever your age and no matter how long you have smoked, it’s never too late to stop.”

The government continues to go further and faster to support people to quit smoking. Under the world-first Swap to Stop scheme, the government has so far received requests from local authorities nationwide for an unprecedented 259,000 vapes.

Vaping is rightly used by adults as a tool to quit smoking, but the health advice is clear: if you don’t smoke, don’t vape – and children should never vape.

As part of the scheme, almost 1 in 5 of all smokers in England will be provided with a vape starter kit alongside behavioural support to help them quit the habit. This is part of a series of new measures to help the government meet its ambition of making England smokefree.

Public Health Minister, Andrea Leadsom, said: “Smoking is the biggest preventable killer in the UK and places a huge burden on our NHS.

“Cigarettes are responsible for 64,000 deaths a year in England alone – no other consumer product kills up to two-thirds of its users.

“That’s why we need to act now to prevent our children from ever lighting one. Our historic Tobacco and Vapes Bill will protect the next generation from the harms of smoking and risk of addiction.”

Watch the film here.

Smoking is still the single largest preventable cause of death in England. Almost every minute of every day someone is admitted to hospital with a smoking related disease.

Smoking costs the economy and wider society £17 billion a year. This includes an annual £14 billion loss to productivity, through smoking related lost earnings, unemployment, and early death, as well as costs to the NHS and social care of £3 billion. This is equivalent to the annual salaries of over half a million nurses, 390,000 GPs, 400,000 police officers, or 400 million GP appointments.

Reducing the prevalence of smoking will reduce those costs, lower pressure on the NHS, and help the economy become more productive.

Professor of Respiratory Medicine at Imperial College London, Nick Hopkinson, said: “We know that most people who smoke start as teenagers, and taking up smoking at a young age is linked to a greater risk of health problems later in life.

“Our research shows that the influence of family and friends is a significant driving force in young people taking up cigarettes in the first place, making them more than three times as likely to start smoking if their parents, caregivers or friends do.

“We must do what we can now to ensure our children are the first smokefree generation.”

Research suggests that people who start smoking under the age of 18 have higher levels of nicotine dependency and are less likely to quit smoking later in life.

Imperial College London’s analysis of UK Millennium Cohort Study data also found that 1 in 10 (10.6%) teenagers were regular smokers at the age of 17 – this equates to approximately 160,000 young people in the UK being regular smokers by the age of 17.

Currently, 4 in 5 smokers start before the age of 20 and smoking from a younger age is linked to being more likely to smoke in later years. This has a significant lasting impact, as someone who quits before turning 30 could add 10 years to their life.

Deborah Arnott, chief executive of Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) said: “Over three quarters of the public support the Prime Minister’s ambition to create a smokefree generation.

“Legislation to end cigarette sales to anyone born on or after the 1 January 2009 will be crucial to delivering that ambition. But as role models for their children, parents who smoke can play their part too.

“Stopping smoking will not only improve their health and put money in their pocket, but also significantly increase the chances their children will grow up to be part of the smokefree generation.”

TV doctor, Dr Sarah Jarvis, said: “Smoking is highly addictive, particularly for our children. We know that most smokers start in their youth and many want to quit – but the addictive nature of cigarettes means they cannot.

“But there’s help available for those looking to stop smoking. The NHS has a range of free support, including local stop smoking services.

Better Health offers a range of free quitting support, including a local stop smoking services look-up tool, as well as advice on stop smoking aids including information on how vaping can help you quit smoking.

For free support to quit this January, search ‘Smokefree’.

Visit https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking to find out more on what support is available.

NOTE: I’m sure Scots are encouraged to quit smoking too! – ED.