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HOW TO ENJOY CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK - šŸŽ Report by Kelly Leonard for View From UK The festive seas...
18/12/2024

HOW TO ENJOY CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK - šŸŽ

Report by Kelly Leonard for View From UK

The festive season is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, a period of warmth, laughter, and connection.

Yet, for many families, Christmas can also bring a sense of financial anxiety, as expectations around gifts, decorations, and elaborate meals seem to grow each year. But the truth is, creating a memorable and meaningful holiday doesnā€™t have to mean emptying your bank account.

With a bit of creativity and thoughtfulness, itā€™s possible to enjoy a magical Christmas without overspending.

The run-up to Christmas is where much of the seasonā€™s joy lies, and this time can be made special without splashing out.

A crisp winter walk, with the added sparkle of fairy-lit houses and shopfronts, can be just as enchanting as any costly outing. Taking a thermos of homemade hot chocolate along can make it all the more memorable.

At home, the focus can shift to simple, heartfelt traditions. An evening spent crafting decorations or writing cards together not only saves money but also deepens the sense of shared effort and togetherness.

Even a family night in, watching classic Christmas films by the glow of the tree, can feel indulgent when approached with the right mindset.

When it comes to gifts, itā€™s worth remembering that the thought behind a present matters far more than its price tag. Handmade gifts, whether a batch of spiced biscuits or a photo album filled with shared memories, are often the ones cherished most.

If budgets are particularly tight, agreeing with friends or family to organise a Secret Santa can ease the pressure. Setting a modest spending limit ensures the fun remains without financial strain.

Another lovely idea is giving the gift of time - vouchers promising to babysit, cook a meal, or help with household projects are not only budget-friendly but also incredibly thoughtful.

Budgeting for the festive period might not feel particularly Christmassy, but itā€™s a practical step that pays dividends in reducing stress. Taking the time to set a realistic spending limit and sticking to it can be liberating.

Shopping early is another simple way to spread the cost, as is keeping an eye out for sales or browsing charity shops for hidden treasures. Sometimes, the perfect gift isnā€™t the one with a shiny new tag but the one with a story behind it.

The Christmas meal, often considered the centrepiece of the day, is another area where simplicity can shine. A traditional turkey is lovely, but itā€™s not the only route to festive success. Roasting a chicken or preparing a hearty vegetarian dish can be just as satisfying. Inviting guests to contribute - a pudding, a side dish, or some drinks - not only lightens the financial load but makes the meal feel more communal. And when the day is done, leftovers can become a source of creativity, stretching the feast into warming soups or satisfying sandwiches.

Every Christmas, itā€™s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of adverts and expectations, but itā€™s worth pausing to remember what truly makes this time special. The joy of Christmas isnā€™t found in a pile of expensive presents or a lavishly decorated home. Itā€™s in the sound of shared laughter, the warmth of a hug, the quiet moments around the table or tree.

By focusing on the simple pleasures and the people who matter most, this yearā€™s Christmas can be just as magical as any other, without leaving a financial hangover to deal with come January.

Sometimes, the best gifts of all are those that donā€™t cost a penny - time, love, and the memories made together.

NHS WARNS OF 'FESTIVE FLU' CRISIS AS FLU HOSPITALISATIONS JUMP 70%  - šŸ“ˆ Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK Engla...
12/12/2024

NHS WARNS OF 'FESTIVE FLU' CRISIS AS FLU HOSPITALISATIONS JUMP 70% - šŸ“ˆ

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

England is grappling with a sharp rise in flu infections, with the NHS reporting a staggering 70% increase in hospital cases within a single week.

Health officials are calling on the public to act swiftly, urging vaccinations to mitigate the growing threat of what has been dubbed "festive flu".

For the week ending 8th December, an average of 1,861 patients with flu were hospitalised daily, up from 1,099 the week before and a mere 402 at this time last year. The UK Health Security Agency has identified children aged 5 to 14 as having the highest infection rates, but warns that adult cases are likely to rise as schools close and families come together for the festive season.

Adding to the pressure on healthcare services are surges in other seasonal illnesses, including norovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Hospital beds occupied by patients with norovirus symptoms increased by 10% last week compared to the previous week, marking a 64% rise from last year. Meanwhile, hospitalisations of children with RSV climbed to 152 per day, a notable increase from 107 a year ago.

Though COVID hospitalisations have slightly declined, with 1,343 patients compared to 1,390 the previous week, the combined strain of these illnesses has raised concerns about a potential ā€œquad-demicā€ - simultaneous peaks of flu, COVID, RSV, and norovirus.

In response to these challenges, the NHS is intensifying its vaccination campaign. Eligible groups, including the over-65s, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions, are being urged to take advantage of free flu jabs available at pharmacies.

To make vaccinations more accessible, they are also being offered in unconventional locations such as football clubs, Christmas markets, church halls and supermarkets.

Pregnant women are being encouraged to receive the RSV vaccine to protect their babies, while adults aged 75 to 79 are also eligible for this additional protection.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, Chief Medical Officer of NHS England, described the surge in flu cases as deeply concerning, emphasising the urgent need for vaccinations. He said, ā€œThe tidal wave of flu cases and other seasonal viruses hitting hospitals is really concerning for patients and for the NHS. With one week left to book your vaccine, I cannot stress enough the importance of getting booked in to protect yourself against serious illness and to avoid ā€˜festive fluā€™.ā€

Health Secretary Wes Streeting echoed this call, urging people to act now, saying, ā€œProtect yourself, your family, and the NHS by getting vaccinated before itā€™s too late.ā€

The plea comes as the health service braces for an exceptionally challenging winter.

In addition to rising infection rates, November was the busiest on record for A&E departments in England, with 2.31 million attendances. However, only 57% of patients were seen within the target of four hours, down from 58.1% in October. Ambulance handover delays also increased, with patients waiting an average of 42 minutes and 59 seconds - a rise compared to the same period last year.

Vaccination remains a critical defence against what health officials fear could become a particularly difficult winter for the NHS and its patients.

( Image: Pixabay Library šŸ“ø )

HEDGEHOGS IN WINTERTIME AND HELPING THEM BETTER SURVIVE A COLD SNAP - šŸ¦” šŸ¦” šŸ¦” Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK A...
23/11/2024

HEDGEHOGS IN WINTERTIME AND HELPING THEM BETTER SURVIVE A COLD SNAP - šŸ¦” šŸ¦” šŸ¦”

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

As winter grips Britain, hedgehogs enter a state of hibernation, a strategy essential for their survival during colder months when food is scarce.

Hibernation is a deep state of torpor, where body temperature, heart rate, and activity levels drop dramatically to conserve energy.

This unique adaptation allows hedgehogs, which are warm-blooded (endothermic) when active, to behave like reptiles (poikilothermic) during hibernation by cooling their body temperature to just above freezing. Hibernation combines hypothermia with a near-complete shutdown of bodily functions, triggered by internal signals and seasonal cues.

The process of hibernation is remarkably efficient, with a hedgehogā€™s heart rate dropping to as low as four or five beats per minute, and their body temperature plummeting from 35Ā°C to just above freezing. In this state of torpor, hedgehogs can even pause their breathing for up to two hours before taking a series of rapid shallow breaths and sinking back into dormancy. This helps the creatures preserve fat reserves, but the process is delicate. Any unnecessary disturbance can force them to wake, burning through stored energy and potentially endangering their survival.

The ideal hibernation temperature is around +4Ā°C, as this minimises the consumption of fat reserves, although freezing conditions may cause them to increase their metabolic rate slightly to prevent tissue damage.

Hedgehogs construct their winter nests, known as hibernacula, using dead leaves and moss, burrowing into their chosen site and arranging the materials into a compact structure.

The nests, often reused and repaired each year, not only protect hedgehogs from harsh conditions but also provide shelter at times for other wildlife species, such as bumblebees, field voles, and wood mice. To prepare for hibernation, hedgehogs lay down both white fat, which is used for general maintenance, and brown adipose tissue (BAT), which is particularly effective at storing energy.

If a hedgehog is seen during daylight in freezing weather, it is likely in distress and needs urgent help. Acting quickly, you should carefully pick up the hedgehog and wrap it in a towel or blanket before placing it in a box. Providing warmth is crucial, so a hot water bottle wrapped in fleece should be placed nearby, allowing the animal to move closer or away as needed. Once secure, contact a local wildlife rescue centre for further assistance.

Your prompt intervention can play a critical role in ensuring the hedgehogā€™s survival during these challenging months.

Hibernation is not just a survival mechanism but a testament to the resilience and adaptability of hedgehogs. Despite their remarkable abilities, they face numerous threats in the modern world, many of them human-made. Understanding their needs and stepping in to help when necessary can make a vital difference. With care and respect, we can help these extraordinary creatures continue to thrive in our shared environment.

( Photos: Pixabay Library šŸ“ø )

WHY A POPPY? šŸ™In Flanders fields the poppies blowBetween the crosses, row on row,That mark our place: and in the skyThe ...
09/11/2024

WHY A POPPY? šŸ™

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place: and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

John McCrae (1872ā€“1918)

We will remember them...

ROYAL MAILā€™S 2024 CHRISTMAS STAMPS CAPTURE SNOWY SPLENDOUR OF ICONIC UK CATHEDRALS - šŸŽ āœļø ā„ļø Report by Duncan Williams f...
05/11/2024

ROYAL MAILā€™S 2024 CHRISTMAS STAMPS CAPTURE SNOWY SPLENDOUR OF ICONIC UK CATHEDRALS - šŸŽ āœļø ā„ļø

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

This festive season, the Royal Mail has unveiled its much-anticipated 2024 Christmas stamp collection, featuring a series of evocative snowy scenes of iconic UK cathedrals. Illustrated by British artist Judy Joel, each stamp captures the beauty of these sites dusted in winter snow, evoking a sense of peace, tradition, and seasonal spirituality.

Five cathedrals across the UK are featured: Liverpool, Edinburgh, Armagh, Bangor, and Westminster. The new stamps, available as of today, offer a tour through Britainā€™s architectural past and its spiritual heart. Each image highlights the cathedrals' unique histories and cultural significance, giving a glimpse of both well-known and hidden details about each site.

Liverpool Cathedral is celebrated as the largest cathedral in Britain and ranks as the fifth largest in the world. This architectural giant, known for the worldā€™s heaviest and highest ringing peal of bells, attracts countless visitors each year, not only for its grand scale but also for its imposing neo-Gothic design, which stands out dramatically against the Liverpool skyline.

Moving north to Scotland, St Maryā€™s Episcopal Cathedral in Edinburgh appears in all its Victorian Gothic beauty. Celebrating its 150th anniversary, the cathedralā€™s cornerstone was laid in 1874, and its triple spires mark it as one of only three cathedrals in the UK with this unique feature, a distinction shared only with Lichfield and Truro. St Maryā€™s is also known for its pioneering spirit in music; it was the first UK cathedral with a daily choral service to invite girls to sing alongside boys, a progressive change made in 1978.

Across the Irish Sea, Northern Irelandā€™s St Patrickā€™s Cathedral in Armagh brings ancient history to this festive collection. Perched on the hill that gives the city its name, Ard Mhacha, the cathedralā€™s site is said to date back to 445 AD, where Saint Patrick himself founded a church. Its architecture, shaped by centuries of reconstruction and restoration, is an eclectic blend that reflects the varied epochs through which it has endured.

Wales also finds its place in this collection with Bangor Cathedral, a site steeped in Welsh history and legend. Dating back almost 1,500 years, it has withstood the turbulence of history, including episodes of destruction and reconstruction, and serves as the burial ground of notable Welsh princes. The cathedral is dedicated to its 6th-century founder, Saint Deiniol, anchoring it as a deeply significant site for the Welsh people.

Rounding off the collection is Westminster Cathedral, the largest Roman Catholic church in England and Wales. Though construction concluded in 1903, Westminster Cathedral remains unique due to its unfinished interior mosaics, which continue to be crafted and added to this day. The structure itself, with its Byzantine architecture, stands apart from the more Gothic style associated with English cathedrals, making it an architectural marvel in its own right.

This 2024 stamp series offers more than a festive touch; it presents a celebration of the UKā€™s Christian and architectural heritage, connecting modern observers with centuries of seasonal culture, faith, and history.

( Pictures courtesy of Royal Mail šŸ“ø )

WASTE NOT SOMERSET FUND BOOSTS LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND REDUCES WASTE - ā™»ļø Report by Stephen Collier for News Advertiser ne...
23/10/2024

WASTE NOT SOMERSET FUND BOOSTS LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND REDUCES WASTE - ā™»ļø

Report by Stephen Collier for News Advertiser newspapers

The Waste Not Somerset Fund, a grant initiative set up to help community groups reduce waste and promote sustainability, is having a significant impact across Somerset. Jointly funded by Somerset Council and SUEZ recycling and recovery, the fund supports grassroots projects aimed at reducing waste, reusing materials, and encouraging sustainable living.

Managed by Somerset Community Foundation, the fund uses ring-fenced income from the sale of recyclable materials to support a variety of local initiatives. The scheme focuses on projects that minimise waste and promote repair and reuse, with recent grants helping groups in Wellington, Crewkerne, and Bridgwater.

Cllr Richard Wilkins, Somersetā€™s executive member for transport and waste services, praised the initiative, stating, ā€œWe want Somerset to be a greener and more sustainable place and, while recycling is great, reducing waste is even better. These grants have the added benefit of helping community groups grow with all the positives that come with a flourishing community sector.ā€

SUEZā€™s senior community liaison manager, Lily Morton, highlighted the wide-reaching benefits of the initiative, explaining that, ā€œBacking some of the amazing community groups in Somerset has been brilliant. Empowering community groups to tackle waste, alongside supporting their local community, is a win-win! Seeing what the groups have done with the funding, itā€™s clear that they are vital to changing resident behaviours towards waste. All the groups align perfectly with SUEZā€™s vision to live in a world where there is no more waste.ā€

Fiona Foster, senior philanthropy manager at Somerset Community Foundation, added, ā€œWeā€™re extremely privileged that SUEZ and Somerset Council chose to partner with Somerset Community Foundation to create their Waste Not Somerset Fund. Itā€™s great to be working alongside these experienced waste partners to support local groups and grassroots charities, working to reduce waste in the heart of our communities here in Somerset.ā€

One of the projects benefiting from the Waste Not Somerset Fund is the Best Before Food Store in Wellington. This membership scheme provides local residents with access to essentials, including personal hygiene products that would otherwise go to waste. Reflecting on the schemeā€™s impact, a spokesperson for the store said, ā€œComing to the Best Before Food Store has helped me massively and prevents products from going to landfill. Nothing has to be wasted. It has made me think about products in a different way.ā€

The store has also expanded its activities by hosting monthly cooking demonstrations aimed at reducing food waste.

Another group benefiting from the fund is Prodigal Bikes in Crewkerne. This small charity collects unwanted mountain bikes and refurbishes them with the help of local volunteers, including individuals with special educational needs and mental health issues. Thanks to the grant, Prodigal Bikes processed 170 bikes, saving around 2.5 tonnes of waste. Forty of these bikes were donated to local refugees, providing them with a sustainable mode of transport. Anthony Raybould, the charityā€™s operations manager, expressed his gratitude, saying, ā€œWe really appreciate funding like this which we can use to support our running costs.ā€

In Bridgwater, the Victoria Park Community Centre has also benefited from the Waste Not Somerset Fund. The centreā€™s Local Pantry, which started in February 2023, prevented 2.45 tonnes of food waste in just five months. Laura Fowler, the centreā€™s manager, commented on the social value of the project, saying, ā€œThe social value of the Pantry not only means reducing food waste but we're able to support people on low incomes through the cost-of-living crisis, adding value to their weekly food costs with amazing foods, valued at approximately Ā£20.00 for Ā£3.50 per week.ā€

The centre has also used the funding to run workshops including a clothes swap, family cooking sessions, and reusable personal hygiene product demonstrations, all aimed at promoting a sustainable lifestyle.

For more details about the fund and its projects, visit the Somerset Community Foundationā€™s website at - www.somersetcf.org.uk.

CARE QUALITY COMMISSION SAYS HORTON CROSS NURSING HOME 'REQUIRES IMPROVEMENT' - ā­• Report by Duncan Williams for View Fro...
23/10/2024

CARE QUALITY COMMISSION SAYS HORTON CROSS NURSING HOME 'REQUIRES IMPROVEMENT' - ā­•

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

Horton Cross Nursing Home in Ilminster, South Somerset, has been rated as "requires improvement" in the latest report by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The home, which cares for 29 people and is run by Sentimental Care Limited, received a mix of ratings, with "good" scores for the categories of safe, caring, and responsive. However, it was marked as "requires improvement" for the categories of effective and well-led.

The CQCā€™s site visit, conducted on 26th June and published in the report on 4th October, was prompted "due to concerns regarding numerous changes in the management at the home, causing instability". The report examined seven "quality statements" related to leadership, governance, workforce diversity, and more. Despite some positive feedback, the homeā€™s overall rating remained "requires improvement", as it was in the previous inspection.

Residents spoke favourably about the care they received at Horton Cross Nursing Home. One resident said, "Nothing to complain about, food is lovely, staff are superb, couldnā€™t ask for more." Another remarked, "Very good indeed, no grumbles, no complaints very good indeedā€¦ the place is perfect, I canā€™t fault it, includes the staff all nice." Relatives were also generally pleased with the service, with one saying, "Everything is fine here."

Although residents expressed contentment, the report noted that "not everyone knew the new manager". However, they would speak with care staff or nurses "if they had any concerns".

One area of feedback focused on the homeā€™s garden. The report explained, "Concerns had been raised about the overgrown garden but nobody we spoke with felt this was a concern. After our site visit a gardening team started work to improve the gardens around the home."

Management stability was highlighted as a significant issue. The report stated that, "At our last 5 inspections we found the provider had failed to consistently maintain good governance at the service." It went on to say that, "People were placed at risk due to poor quality monitoring and oversight of the service provided."

The report also highlighted recent instability in the home's leadership, stating, "There had also been inconsistent management at the home which had caused instability. The interim manager in post at the last assessment had left their role. The provider had acted promptly to put a manager in place, who stayed for 2 weeks. The provider then contracted a consultant to step in as the manager at the home. At the time of our site visit the new manager had been at the home for 10 days."

Despite these concerns, staff were hopeful about the future. According to the CQC, staff at the home said they had "confidence in the new manager and were hopeful they would make the improvements needed".

While the home has shown some positive aspects, the CQC emphasised the need for sustained improvements in the management and oversight of the service. The full report can be accessed via the Care Quality Commissionā€™s website.

WILL YOU BE TAKING PART IN 'CAPS LOCK DAY'? TIME TO LET YOUR KEYBOARD ROAR!  āŒØļø šŸ”’ šŸ˜± Report by Duncan Williams for News A...
22/10/2024

WILL YOU BE TAKING PART IN 'CAPS LOCK DAY'? TIME TO LET YOUR KEYBOARD ROAR! āŒØļø šŸ”’ šŸ˜±

Report by Duncan Williams for News Advertiser newspapers

On 22nd October each year, the digital world celebrates International Caps Lock Day, a playful event where everyone is encouraged to embrace the power of capital letters.

What began as a satirical idea in 2000, thanks to software developer Derek Arnold, has since grown into a fun tradition.

Caps Lock Day invites us to take a break from the rules of writing and enjoy a moment of UNFILTERED EXPRESSION!

Arnold originally created the day to poke fun at people who overused capital letters in online conversations. Back then, typing in all caps was often seen as shouting - a breach of online etiquette. But Caps Lock Day takes that "SHOUTING" and turns it into a celebration of bold, unapologetic communication.

Itā€™s a day when people can, quite literally, make their words STAND OUT.

Social media lights up on Caps Lock Day, with posts, memes, and messages written entirely in all caps. The internet becomes a space where loud and proud statements jump off the screen.

While the tradition is rooted in humour, it also reminds us that in an age saturated with information, sometimes it's OK to break the rules to grab attention. CAPS LOCK DEMANDS THAT WE NOTICE IT, AND THAT'S EXACTLY THE POINT.

It gives everyone permission to play with their words in a way thatā€™s impossible to ignore. If you're in a profession obsessed with perfect punctuation, itā€™s refreshing to let loose for a day.

YEEHAA! GO FOR IT!!!

( That's quite ENOUGH locking of your caps. Ed šŸ—žļø )

HONITON BUSINESSES INVITED TO JOIN ROYAL BRITISH LEGION REMEMBRANCE WINDOW DRESSING COMPETITION - šŸ‡¬šŸ‡§ šŸ•Šļø šŸŖŸ Report by Dunc...
20/10/2024

HONITON BUSINESSES INVITED TO JOIN ROYAL BRITISH LEGION REMEMBRANCE WINDOW DRESSING COMPETITION - šŸ‡¬šŸ‡§ šŸ•Šļø šŸŖŸ

Report by Duncan Williams for View From UK

The Honiton branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) has launched a special window dressing competition in the lead-up to Remembrance Day, inviting local East Devon businesses to take part in honouring veterans and those who have served in the Armed Forces.

This initiative encourages shops and businesses across Honiton to create window displays that reflect the spirit of Remembrance, adding a meaningful touch to the townā€™s high street this November.

The competition, open to all businesses in the area, will be judged by the RBL Honiton Branch committee. They will be looking for creative, heartfelt displays that capture the essence of Remembrance and pay tribute to the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three window displays, with winners announced on 7th November.

Entry to the competition is free, and businesses wishing to participate are asked to register by emailing [email protected]

Participants should ensure their displays are ready by 3rd November, with judging beginning on 4th November.

Remembrance Day holds deep significance in the South West of England, a region with a rich military history. Each year, communities gather to remember those who served, particularly during the World Wars, and to honour the continuing contributions of todayā€™s Armed Forces.

The window dressing competition is just one way the people of Honiton can show their respect and support in this important season of reflection.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the Honiton Royal British Legionā€™s website or contact their local branch.

See link, here : https://branches.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/Honiton

10TH OCTOBER HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS - ā¤ļøReport by Duncan Williams for News Advertiser news...
07/10/2024

10TH OCTOBER HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS - ā¤ļø

Report by Duncan Williams for News Advertiser newspapers

Mental Health Awareness Day, observed annually on 10th October, has become a key event in the UK, spotlighting the importance of mental health and encouraging open conversations to challenge prejudice.

Since its introduction by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992, this day has evolved into a significant focal point for public health campaigns, with organisations such as Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, and the Mental Health Foundation leading the charge. Each year, a new theme addresses current mental health concerns, ensuring the campaign remains relevant.

One central message of Mental Health Awareness Day is that mental health issues can affect anyone - men, women, and young people of all ages. In the UK, one in four people will experience a mental health problem during their lifetime. However, recognising these issues - whether in ourselves or others - can be difficult due to lingering misconceptions, which may cause many to suffer in silence.

Spotting early signs of mental health problems is vital for timely support. Emotional indicators might include persistent sadness, irritability, or hopelessness, while physical symptoms may involve changes in sleep, appetite, or unexplained pain. Social withdrawal or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed are also common. In severe cases, risky behaviours like substance abuse, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts may emerge.

For those experiencing these symptoms, reaching out for help is crucial. This often starts with a visit to a GP, who can guide individuals toward counselling or other mental health services. For family and friends concerned about someone, simply offering a non-judgemental listening ear can be a powerful first step. Reassuring someone that they are not alone can make a significant difference.

Encouraging professional help when needed is essential. Many people feel unsure about accessing mental health services, so helping them navigate the system or offering to accompany them to an appointment can be beneficial. Providing practical support, such as assisting with daily tasks, can also ease the burden for someone feeling overwhelmed.

While awareness of mental health has improved, the pressures of modern life contribute to rising levels of mental health issues. The fast-paced nature of work, constant digital connectivity, and the pressures of social comparison - often amplified by social media - can weigh heavily on well-being. Financial stress, job insecurity, and the rising cost of living further compound these issues, especially for younger generations.

Although mental health problems have always existed, there is now a greater willingness to seek help and discuss these issues. This shift is partly due to reduced stigma and the growing number of people openly sharing their experiences.

Despite this progress, mental health services in the UK remain under strain, making access to treatment in some regions challenging. While the conversation around mental health has improved, much more needs to be done to ensure timely and adequate support.

Mental Health Awareness Day plays a critical role in fostering the ongoing cultural shift needed to ensure that mental well-being receives the same attention and care as physical health.

WEEKLY WELLBEING: UK CHRISTIANS PREPARE FOR NATIONAL PRAYER WEEK IN OCTOBER - šŸ™Report by Pastor Duncan Williams for News...
07/10/2024

WEEKLY WELLBEING: UK CHRISTIANS PREPARE FOR NATIONAL PRAYER WEEK IN OCTOBER - šŸ™

Report by Pastor Duncan Williams for News Advertiser newspapers

Christian organisations and churches across the UK and British Isles are calling for believers to unite in a National Week of Prayer from 12th - 20th October, 2024. The initiative seeks to bring people together in prayer, with a focus on repentance, spiritual awakening, and transformation in the nation.

The campaign, organised in partnership with groups such as Open Doors UK & Ireland, 24-7 Prayer, CARE, and the Evangelical Alliance, aims to encourage Christians to host or attend local events, with a particular focus on praying for areas like education, politics, and the arts. A key event will take place at the Emmanuel Centre in Westminster, close to the Houses of Parliament, on 16th October, where hundreds are expected to gather to celebrate Godā€™s work in the nation and pray for its future.

Kamesh Flynn, the project coordinator, expressed the impact of collective prayer in recent months: ā€œThroughout the past few months, we have been humbled at how open and engaged people across the nations have been in committing to praying for the nation as a Church collectively. No matter the denomination, individual area of influence, or whether you are gathering 3 people or 3,000 people, we believe this is a moment for the UK to return to God and flourish in the identity found in Him.ā€

Church leaders from various denominations have thrown their support behind the initiative. Archbishop Angaelos, the Coptic Orthodox Archbishop of London, said: "There is nothing more powerful for us to do, than to pray. Stand together, pray together. When we gather together, the Lord is in our midst. This week of prayer, let us pray for our nation for those deprived the right to believe or have their own faith."

The Lord Bishop of Wi******er, the Rt Rev Philip Mountstephen, also stressed the importance of prayer, saying, ā€œWe are an empowered people and in the Spirit we can pray to the creator of the universe and believe that things can and will change. Let us pray!ā€ Father Dominic Robinson SJ, from Central London Catholic Churches, added: ā€œWe want to invite you to gather for the National Week of Prayer as Christians together, remembering our need for God, thanking God for His great gifts, and praying as Christians together for the reawakening of the soul of our nation."

Partners for the National Week of Prayer include a broad coalition of Christian organisations, such as Christians in Government, City Prayer Breakfast, Christians in Politics, and the Christian Embassy London. This united effort hopes to ignite a nationwide movement of prayer, bringing hope and renewal across the four nations.

For more information on how to get involved, visit : www.nationalweekofprayer.uk

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