Having the flu can leave you feeling awful, but there are steps you can take to speed up your recovery:
Do:
Rest and get plenty of sleep
Keep warm
Drink lots of water to stay hydrated
Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce your temperature and ease aches and pains
Stay off work or school until you’re feeling better
Don’t:
Take paracetamol alongside flu remedies that also contain paracetamol
You can check your symptoms and decide what to do next by visiting
Road accidents see a spike in the run-up to Christmas, and while this can be due to increased traffic volume, driver fatigue also has a big part to play as it’s estimated that 10 to 20% of crashes happen because of tired driving.
Christmas is a busy time and the stress from frequent holiday gatherings, Christmas shopping and planning can cause a lot of people to feel exhausted and sleep deprived.
It’s important for drivers to make sure they’re well rested before getting behind the wheel, as they’re twice as likely to crash if they’ve had five to six hours of sleep compared to the recommended eight hours.
Drivers are also told to plan regular rest breaks for longer journeys, taking a break for at least 15 minutes every two hours.
Tired drivers are most likely to crash on monotonous roads such as motorways because of the lack of driver stimulation, potentially leading to microsleeping behind the wheel.
Microsleeping happens when tired drivers nod off for up to 30 seconds and data has revealed one in three Brits have experienced it.
Eating can also exacerbate fatigue and drowsiness, so it’s best to let the food settle for a few hours after eating a big Christmas meal at a holiday gathering.
Cat Wiltshire from Online-Bedrooms.co.uk said: “While fatigued driving is a danger throughout the whole year, the risks are further increased during the Christmas season, as many people struggle with festive burnout.
“Many of us feel exhausted in the run-up to Christmas as it’s a high-intensity period filled with office parties, holiday gatherings, endless Christmas shopping trips and lots of travelling to ensure you’re spending time with all your loved ones.
“The roads are a lot busier around the holiday season which already increases the risk of collisions, and adding fatigue to the mix makes the situation far more dangerous.
“Before driving home for Christmas, it’s crucial to ensure you get enough sleep the night before, especially if you’re planning to head out early to avoid traffic.
“Even going to bed an hour or two earlier before a long car journey can make a big difference, as those getting five to six hours of sleep are twice as likely to crash compared to seven to eight hours.
“Taking regular breaks is also important, especially if you’re driving for more than two hours. Even if your journey is shorter, make sure to look out for signs of fatigue such as excessive yawning and heavy eyelids.”
Everyone is familiar with the old saying ‘there’s no use crying over spilled milk’, but it’s spilled gravy that might be doing the damage this Christmas – and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is asking the public to take extra care when they’re serving up the Turkey this December 25th.
Burns from hot gravy are among reasons why people self-present at Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments on Christmas Day. Other common minor conditions include cuts from parents using box cutters and craft knives to open presents, falls from ladders following decorations being hung or presents decanted from lofts, and acid reflux or constipation.
Debbie McCoach, Interim Lead Nurse at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Accident and Emergency Department, said: “Christmas Day at home is mostly full of buzz, excitement – and let’s be honest – chaos.
“In times of hectic family life, rational thinking can go out of the window and accidents can very quickly and easily happen. We’re asking everyone to have a lot of fun but approach things with caution, particularly when it comes to the kitchen.”
Upset tummies and respiratory issues from seasonal illnesses are also big with self-presenters at A&E, which are minor illnesses that should be treated elsewhere.
Dr Claire Harrow, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Deputy Medical Director for Acute Services said: “We’re also asking people to be aware when and when not to attend the Accident and Emergency department.
“A&E is for urgent injuries and life-threatening care. Otherwise, on Christmas Day, people should be calling NHS24 on 111 if they have a minor injury or minor illness. In doing so, they’ll be provided advice and will be given an appointment if required, virtually or in-person.
“After all, no one wants to be sitting in a waiting room on Christmas Day!”
There are instances where A&E will be essential and, when it comes to safety, paediatricians are asking parents and carers to be extra vigilant of their child at home to avoid hospital this Christmas.
Staff at the Royal Hospital for Children A&E have highlighted the anticipated big hitters when it comes to objects causing serious injuries this Christmas, along with some advice on how to avoid them.
Dr Joanne Stirling, Consultant in Paediatric Emergency Medicine at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow said: “Bikes and scooters are always big on Christmas lists and we’re pleading with parents to remember that if Santa is bringing anything with wheels, especially if it is motorised, then a helmet is also included. We’ve had a few incidents with eScooters this year and the injuries have been very serious.
“This request extends to the “big kids” of the family too. i.e. mum and dad who may be eager for a “wee shot”– trust us, if you’re unprotected, the injury won’t be worth it.”
Dr Stirling highlighted others for parents to watch out for and if an injury does occur, should be brought straight to A&E:
Claire is from Glasgow and has been a Senior Charge Nurse at NHS 24’s Cardonald contact centre for a year. She is working both Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Claire says: “It has been lovely to take part in the school festive traditions with the kids throughout December. I’m really looking forward to attending the panto on Christmas Eve as well getting involved in some carol singing.
“It’s such a magical time of the year to spend time with the family, and we have lots of quality time planned in between my shifts.
“My top tip for over festive is if you have kids, ensure you have child-friendly remedies available at home.
“Pop into your local pharmacy where they can give you advice on the most appropriate medicines for your family.”
NHS 24 – #PoweredByPeople
— Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes Scotland partners with RSPB to compile nature-friendly tips —
In light of the recent cold snap, Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes Scotland is putting nature first to inspire homeowners to create their own haven for wildlife during the colder months.
Combined, UK gardens and balconies are six times the size of Glasgow and Edinburgh, covering 4,000km2 – space that with a little care and attention could make a big difference for nature. This could be as simple as introducing nest boxes and bird feeders to planting wildlife-friendly flowers.
The housebuilder has partnered with the RSPB to create a list of wildlife-friendly features to incorporate into your garden for when temperatures plunge.
Provide shelter for a rainy day
When the weather takes a turn, birds need shelter to keep warm and dry. Nest boxes are the perfect option for small birds and are a popular spot for them during colder nights, with space to cosy up together for communal warmth.
For woodland creatures, creating a deadwood or leaf pile in your garden can be used for shelter and to keep warm.
Across Scotland, Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes properties has planted over 5,000 new trees in development gardens and installed over 4,000 hedgehog highways in show home gardens.
Open an outdoor kitchen
Just like us, birds need extra energy during the colder seasons to keep warm. The smaller the bird, the more likely it is to be affected by long periods of cold weather.
With longer nights and poorer weather conditions, the options for finding food is limited for wildlife meaning they often venture outside of their usual sources in the quest to find food. Without food sources, birds are at risk of starvation, which often kills many birds during winter.
You can help your garden birds by providing some food when natural resources such as berries and seeds are running low, or hard to access because of the cold weather. Find safe places for hanging bird feeders offering calorie-rich seed mixes, good quality peanuts and suet balls. Move these feeders around, to prevent predators from getting used to their location and ensure all feeders are cleaned at least weekly.
Bird landscaping
Consider the plants you grow in the garden, as they can provide a year-round sanctuary for birds. Planting trees and shrubs for garden birds will not only provide a larger nesting space for birds to take cover and keep warm during winter, but also acts a cooling space to retreat to in summer.
Shrubs – such as native holly – provide birds with berries over the winter period, which are particularly popular among blackbirds, bullfinches, sparrows and winter thrushes.
Creating flower beds of varying heights can also provide cover for birds of different sizes. For instance, allowing perennials to remain standing through the winter can offer additional shelter.
Compost leftovers and greenery
To help minimise food waste over the festive period, consider building a compost heap to recycle organic household waste, including peelings and any uneaten vegetables. Our gardens also have a wealth of greenery that are perfect for compost piles, including dead trees, shrubs and grass cuttings.
Not only will it give you compost to fertilise your garden, but it also diversifies the wildlife in your garden, and you may see some robins and blackbirds nesting there come spring.
“At Barratt, we have a nationwide commitment to creating nature-friendly outdoor spaces of all sizes in our developments. These spaces range from gardens and balconies to communal areas, all of which are now flourishing with life.”
Adrian Thomas, RSPB’s wildlife gardening expert, said: “Whatever size your garden or outdoor space is, it can offer shelter and food to a huge variety of wildlife which is especially important in the coldest months.
“Winter gardens are also beneficial for people! Getting outside, breathing some fresh air and being closer to nature is likely to give your wellbeing a boost at a time of year when it may really need it. As does the chance to watch some of the wildlife that is making the most of your garden.
“Big Garden Birdwatch is a great example of this, showing how taking note of what birds are around us – even just for an hour – can be really valuable, helping us to relax, reflect and feel more connected.”
Barratt Homes’ commitment to creating wildlife-friendly areas across its Scotland developments include:
North Scotland:
West Scotland:
East Scotland:
The UK is home to spectacular wildlife and internationally important habitats, and yet it is in the bottom 10 per cent of countries globally for protecting nature.
Sadly, nature in the UK is in trouble and in need of a helping hand, having lost 38 million birds over the last 50 years, with house sparrows, starlings and song thrushes all considered birds of conservation concern.
For more tips to encourage wildlife into your garden this winter and beyond visit Nature on Your Doorstep here.
Motorists are being warned about winter driving hazards they need to be aware of as temperatures start to drop.
Experts from car insurance firm Quotezone.co.uk have revealed ways motorists can avoid penalty points, fines, higher insurance premiums and help keep themselves and other road users safe.
Winter is a dangerous time of year to be driving, with darker nights, awkward sunshine and icy road surfaces.
When asked about their biggest fear when driving in the winter, a recent Quotezone survey found 48% said driving in snow and icy conditions is their biggest worry.
To try to alleviate these fears, motorists are encouraged to plan ahead for the winter weather, be extra cautious and adjust their driving to meet the conditions.
Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said: “Winter is probably the most challenging time of the year for drivers, as part of Road Safety Week we wanted to raise awareness of the difficulties many drivers face every day and encourage everyone to get prepared for winter.
“The Quotezone survey showed nearly half are worried about driving in snowy and icy conditions, but there are steps drivers can take to help keep them safe. It’s important to make sure the vehicle is road worthy – especially tyres, it’s vital they are fit for purpose, fully inflated and pass the 20p tread depth test to ensure they have enough grip in treacherous conditions.
“It’s sensible to give your vehicle some TLC before setting off, especially on longer road trips over the festive season to visit friends and family, ensuring all lights are working and fluid levels are all topped up. It can also be helpful to pack the boot with a winter survival kit, with essentials in case of an accident or breakdown.
“Road safety is paramount and something all drivers need to take seriously. We’re proud to support road safety charity Brake and the vital work they do supporting communities throughout Great Britain – their vision is a world where we can all move in a safe and healthy way, working to stop crashes on our roads, reduce harm when a crash happens, and help every road victim get the support they need, for as long as they need it.”
Quotezone.co.uk has put together a list of five things to look out for when driving this winter:
1.Check tyres
Motorists can be fined a hefty £2,500 for each faulty tyre and receive three points on their driving licence. If the police see another tyre falling short, it doubles to £5,000 and six points. Four faulty tyres could even see the maximum 12 points, resulting in the loss of a driving licence. Bare and worn tyres will have less grip and be treacherous in icy conditions, when you insert a 20p into the gap in the tyre tread, the rubber needs to cover the bottom line of the 20p, to ensure the tyres have enough grip.
2.Clear your windscreen before you set off
Windscreens with inhibited views can land drivers with a £1,000 fine and three points on a driving licence. So any leaves, snow, ice, mud or even condensation, needs to be fully cleared before you start driving – not having a full view of the road is incredibly dangerous.
3.Defrosting
It’s tempting to leave the engine running while the windscreen unfreezes, and the car warms up. However, if the vehicle is stolen in the meantime, many insurance companies will not cover the loss. Leaving engines running, also known as ‘idling’ is also an offence under section 42 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. This is because it’s bad for the environment as it increases the amount of dangerous gases emitted into the air from the car’s exhaust. It’s also incredibly dangerous if done near a school so best to switch the engine off completely if waiting on the school pick-up.
4.Clean the number plate
Excess mud and grit on the roads this time of year can make your car dirty very quickly, and if the number plate isn’t clearly visible, drivers could face a fine of £1,000. The police need visible access to your number plate at all times, for the safety of all road users.
5.Driving in a flood
Some car insurance policies include clauses advising policyholders not to drive through flooded roads, and may specifically exclude cover for any water damage to the car if the motorist goes against this advice. It’s also extremely dangerous as the engine can stall and the vehicle can be left stranded.
It’s also sensible to pack the car with winter essentials before setting off, such as a torch, a blanket, a shovel, water and rations, a first aid kit, de-icer and a spare phone charger – to help cope with the unexpected.
Quotezone.co.uk helps drivers compare and save on all sorts of motoring products such as breakdown cover, car, motorbike and van insurance.
Experts Reveal You’re Sharing Your Home with Over 100 Spiders
If it feels like your home is crawling with more spiders than usual this season, you’re not imagining things. Peter Murray, a Home & Garden expert from Murray Steel Buildings, warns that the average UK home could be playing host to over 100 spiders – and they’re not where you’d expect.
As autumn settles in and temperatures drop, spiders are seeking out warm, sheltered spots in your home. “They’re drawn to dark, quiet spaces where they won’t be disturbed,” says Murray. “You’re most likely to find them in attics, under furniture, behind curtains, and surprisingly, even in your bed covers.”
This year has seen a particular rise in household spider numbers, with species such as the common house spider and false widow becoming regular visitors indoors. The top places spiders are likely hiding include:
In the corners of ceilings – High-up and undisturbed, these areas are prime real estate for webs.
Under furniture – Sofas, beds, and armchairs provide perfect dark, cosy spots.
In garages and sheds – Wide, untouched spaces are favourites for building webs.
Behind curtains and in bed covers – Anywhere warm and undisturbed is attractive to spiders, including the folds of your bedding.
Around sinks and drains – Bathrooms and kitchens attract spiders due to moisture.
Murray advises, “Though they may seem creepy, spiders help control pests like flies and other insects. However, if you want to keep their numbers down, regular cleaning, reducing clutter, and sealing up cracks around windows and doors will help.”
Peter Murray Murray Steel Buildings
A LEADING wellbeing expert has shared her advice on how to best support someone showing signs of ending their life.
Lynn Crilly’s advice comes ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day which takes place on Tuesday September 10.
Over 5,600 people committed suicide in England in 2023, equivalent to over 11 suicides per 100,000 people.
And with mental health services under huge strain it’s feared numbers could be even higher in 2024.
Mental health crusader Ms Crilly, a counsellor and author, whose books include Hope with Depression: a self-help guide for those affected and their families, friends and carers, warned we are currently in the midst of a major crisis.
But she added: “Most people who feel suicidal do not want death, they just want the pain to stop. So the most powerful thing you can do is be there for them, showing that you care that that their life matters, and helping them find an alternative way forward.”
Highlighting the clues to look for, she continued: “Most people who attempt suicide will give some clue or warning, so it is vital to take those clues seriously, even if they are said casually.
“They may talk or write about death or harming themselves, or they may seek out things that could be used to take their own life, such as weapons or drugs. However, there may be more subtle signs: hopelessness, self-loathing and self-destructive behaviour should all be taken seriously.
“Be alert also to those who seem to be getting their affairs in order or saying goodbye to people as if they will not be seen again. It sounds obvious, but all too often the clues are missed.”
Explaining how best to react if you spot any of the signs, Lynn, who is also currently producing a film called A Day With An Eating Disorder, continued: “If you spot any of these signs and are worried about someone you care about, it is natural to question whether you should say something.
“ But the best way to find out is to ask them. Showing you care will not push someone towards suicide, rather it will give them an opportunity to voice their fears and feelings which could in turn help them to see that there is another way forward.
“While talking is crucial, so is listening. Allow your friend or loved one to unload their despair and listen without judgement, remaining calm and accepting of how they feel. Reassure them that help is available and tell them how important they are to you. Avoid arguing with them or appearing shocked.”
Outlining where to best direct those who might be suffering Lynn added: “Help them to find professional help and be proactive in keeping in touch with them – do not wait for them to call or expect them to ask for help.
“Instead, be in touch often and continue to be supportive in the long term, even if the immediate crisis appears to have passed. Help them to come up with a plan to follow if they feel suicidal thoughts descend.
“This may include identifying their main triggers, as well as what may help them to fight through those difficult feelings. The plan could also include a clear list of contact numbers for friends and family who can help in an emergency, as well as details of their doctor or therapist. If you are worried that there is an urgent danger that they may commit suicide, phone their doctor or dial 999.”
Charity website https://www.sane.org.uk/ is a good source of information, with helplines and other ways to get the support about how to help someone who is having suicidal thoughts.
To mark World Suicide Prevention Day, Lynn’s daughter Samantha, a poet and actress, has shared these words:
DEAR SUICIDE
By
Samantha Crilly
If we fly away together, can we go as high as we can
So far away we’ll lose sight of this land
I must admit it scares me ever so slightly
I know life on this earth isn’t given out lightly
You’ve said it will be peaceful where we’ll end up
however, I’ve been told here many times I have too much to give up
I hope you’re not lying as word says you’re a thief
Wearing a mask of purity to cover the muck underneath
You’ve made me swear not to listen to tomorrow
But it keeps telling me love still has time to grow
That there is happiness down here still waiting for me
That one day I will have the strength to set myself free
So therefore, I’ve decided to pull out of our deal
I know I’m worth so much more than how you feel
goodbye, I hope you keep your thoughts to yourself
and I’m looking forward to sharing tomorrow with everyone else.
Break-ins to sheds and garages occur all too often across the country.
Many criminals consider this type of crime low risk, however there is a lot you can do to outsmart them.
A few simple changes can greatly improve the security of your property.
Workplace expert, Acas, has issued top tips today to help employers prepare for potential issues that could arise during the 2024 Olympics Games in Paris that start on Friday.
Paris 2024 will take place between Friday 26 July and Sunday 11 August 2024. Acas advises employers and small businesses to have agreements in place that cover requests for time off, sickness absence, website use during working hours or watching TV during this period.
Acas Chief Executive, Susan Clews, said: “Paris 2024 will be an exciting event for many sports fans but staff should avoid getting disqualified for unreasonable demands or behaviour in the workplace during this period.
“For many businesses, maintaining a certain staffing level is critical in order to survive and sprint to that finish line. Employers should have a set of simple workplace agreements in place before the starting gun goes off for the Olympic Games. These agreements can help ensure businesses remain productive while keeping staff happy too, which are key ingredients for a gold medal winning team line up.
“Our top tips can help managers get the best from their team athletes by planning for potential hurdles, arranging team relay handovers if necessary and avoiding unnecessary false starts.”
Acas offers some top tips for employers to consider for the 2024 Olympic Games:
Time Off – Employers may wish to look at being a little more flexible when allowing employees time off during this period and employees should remember that it may not always be possible to book a holiday. The key is for both parties to try and come to an agreement. All requests for leave should be considered fairly. A consistent approach should be applied for holiday requests for other major sporting events too.
Sickness absence – Employers may want to remind staff that their sickness and attendance policies will still apply during the Olympics. Any unauthorised absence, patterns of absence or late attendance are likely to be investigated and could result in formal proceedings.
Flexibility – One possible option is to have a more flexible working day. Employees could come in a little later or finish sooner and then agree when this time can be made up.
Allowing staff to listen to the radio or watch the TV may be another possible option. Employers could also allow staff to take a break during popular events. Another option is to look at allowing staff to swap shifts with their manager’s permission.
It is important for employers to be fair and consistent with all staff if they allow additional benefits during the Olympics. Any change in hours or flexibility in working hours should be approved before the event.
Use of social media and websites – there may be an increase in the use of social media or websites covering Paris 2024. Employers may wish to remind staff of any policies on the use of social media and websites during working hours. The policies should be clear on what is and is not acceptable web use.
