Poole Post - News Group

Poole Post - News Group Independent news and local marketing services for and the surrounding area of . We pos WHY A MEDIA HUB FOR POOLE? Media can move mountains.

Community media hubs can help build and highlight local businesses. This is good for the town's commerce and growth. We can also reach people struck by isolation, loneliness and poverty. A healthy local economy can help support the community. HELPING UNITE LOCAL PEOPLE

At the PoolePost.co.uk we aim to speak to neighbourhoods where living standards are high, low, or where rural, social or economic

barriers prevent people accessing vital information and education. We can promote the value of men and women, and investigate wrongs or serious abuses. A POSTING PLATFORM FOR NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS

We can introduce people to new ideas and help strengthen bonds within local communities. We help communities use it to change lives - and unite our town. EXPANDING POOLE'S SOCIAL MEDIA OUTREACH

Bookmark our website and connect with us via social media at www.twitter.com/poolepost and www.facebook.com/poolepost to see how our local media hub is touching the lives of local people.

HOW TO SURVIVE VALENTINE'S DAY WHEN YOU'RE SINGLE - 🌹 Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group Valentine’s ...
11/02/2025

HOW TO SURVIVE VALENTINE'S DAY WHEN YOU'RE SINGLE - 🌹

Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group

Valentine’s Day. The one day of the year when supermarkets overflow with heart-shaped chocolates, florists triple their prices, and social media becomes an unbearable sea of couples grinning over candlelit dinners. If you're single, it can feel a bit like being the only person not invited to a very loud, very public party.

Of course, it wasn’t always this way. Valentine’s Day traces its origins back to the third century, when St Valentine - who may or may not have been more than one person - allegedly defied Emperor Claudius II by secretly marrying couples. His reward? Imprisonment and ex*****on, naturally. Hardly the romantic legacy you’d expect from a day now defined by pink balloons, sentimental cards, and stuffed bears clutching "I Wuv You" signs. Yet, over centuries, the tradition evolved, fuelled by poets like Chaucer, the Victorians’ love of romance, and, more recently, the relentless machinery of capitalism.

So, where does that leave you, the single observer of this grand festival of romance? First, let’s acknowledge that it’s perfectly normal to feel a twinge of loneliness when the world seems to be shouting about love from every billboard and bakery window. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend the day sulking under a duvet, binge-watching sad films, and cursing the happy couples outside.

In fact, Valentine's Day can be an excellent excuse to do something purely for yourself. While couples are awkwardly clinking glasses in overcrowded restaurants, why not revel in the sheer freedom of not having to pretend you enjoy overpriced set menus? Treat yourself to something indulgent - whether that’s ordering your favourite takeaway, buying yourself something special, or enjoying a guilt-free evening of doing absolutely nothing. There’s a certain joy in knowing you don’t have to share your snacks, compromise on plans, or feign interest in someone else's romantic traditions.

Beyond self-indulgence, the day is also an opportunity to celebrate love in all its forms. It doesn’t have to be romantic. Friends, family, pets - there are plenty of relationships worth appreciating. Send a message to a mate who might also be feeling the Valentine’s blues, take a parent or sibling out for coffee, or embrace the chaos of a "Palentine’s" night with good company and bad wine.

And if all else fails, there’s always the joy of smugly watching the post-Valentine’s sales roll in. Because nothing says "self-love" quite like half-price luxury chocolates and heavily discounted roses.

DWP SAYS 200,000 DISABLED PEOPLE CAN WORK, BUT CHARITIES WARN OF THE RISKS - ⭕ Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post ...
08/02/2025

DWP SAYS 200,000 DISABLED PEOPLE CAN WORK, BUT CHARITIES WARN OF THE RISKS - ⭕

Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group

The Department for Work and Pensions has claimed that 200,000 people receiving health and disability benefits are ready to work immediately if the right job or support were available.

However, charities and campaigners warn that cutting benefits could push disabled people into poverty rather than into employment.

The findings, based on a government survey released on Thursday, indicate that 32% of those claiming health and disability benefits believe they could work now or in the future. Of these, 5% - around 200,000 people - said they would be ready now if the right support were in place.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said that the figures were evidence of a broken benefits system. She said, “People claiming health and disability benefits have been classed by the system as ‘can’t work’ and shut out of jobs and have been ignored - when they’ve been crying out for support. It’s bad for people, bad for businesses, which miss out on considerable talent, and bad for the economy. For young people in particular, being out of work can have a scarring effect that lasts a lifetime."

While charities and campaigners have welcomed efforts to improve work opportunities for disabled people, they have warned that reducing benefits will not help. Scope said, “Cutting disability benefits pushes disabled people into poverty right away, and does not move them into jobs."

Reports suggest the government wants to cut at least ÂŁ3bn from the benefits bill, with a disability benefits green paper due in the spring outlining plans to overhaul the system.

As part of these reforms, 424,000 fewer people are expected to be assessed as having limited capability for work by 2028/2029, contributing to the expected savings.

James Taylor, director of strategy at Scope, said, “This research shows there are many out of work who could work if given the right support. It is imperative that the government focuses its efforts on how to achieve this, instead of cutting the welfare budget.”

Evan John, policy advisor at disability charity Sense, raised concerns over another key finding from the research. He said, “The government’s own research found three-quarters of disability benefit claimants are worried about being forced into jobs which will make their conditions worse. We therefore want to see assurances from the government that disabled people will not be pressured into unsuitable work for fear of losing their benefits."

Minesh Patel, associate director of policy and influencing at mental health charity Mind, welcomed the government’s commitment to supporting people into work but emphasised that benefits must still be there for those who cannot work. He said, “We know there that are many people, including younger people, with mental health problems who would like to be able to work but don’t have the right support available. Tailored, voluntary and holistic support is most effective in supporting people with mental health problems to enter and stay in work, and this must be at the heart of any future reforms. The DWP must also make good on its commitment to work with disabled people on reshaping the health and disability system."

Sense has called for more practical support for disabled jobseekers, such as assistive technology like screen readers in every Jobcentre and better training for work coaches to understand the challenges disabled people face. Evan John said, “As the government develop the new jobs and careers service, putting accessibility at the heart of this is more important than ever."

Merry Cross, a member of Disabled People Against Cuts, said this is not just a health issue but a funding issue. She said, “And which age-group within society is most likely to have mental distress? It’s teenagers of course, the group that this and the last government most complain about for being out of work. Yet the funding and resources for mental health services have been savaged over recent years, with a report by the Children’s Commissioner in March 2024 stating that almost a quarter of a million children who had been referred for treatment in 2023 were still waiting."

The Labour government remains insistent that it wants to take a tougher stance on benefits, warning that the UK is the only G7 country where employment levels have not returned to pre-pandemic levels.

( Photo: Steve PB 📷 )

NATIONAL PRESS TITLE IN DISGRACE AS LOCAL NEWS REMAINS A BEACON OF TRUST - 📰 🗞️ Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post...
25/01/2025

NATIONAL PRESS TITLE IN DISGRACE AS LOCAL NEWS REMAINS A BEACON OF TRUST - 📰 🗞️

Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group


The controversy surrounding Prince Harry’s legal battle with News Group Newspapers (NGN) continues to deepen as calls grow for further investigations into alleged misconduct by the media giant.

This past week, the Duke of Sussex settled his case against NGN, publishers of The Sun and the now-defunct News of the World, after the company admitted to unlawful activities, including a serious intrusion into his private life.

Despite this landmark settlement, campaigners supporting Harry’s fight for accountability believe this should only be the beginning of a wider reckoning for Rupert Murdoch's media company.

Campaigners, including prominent figures such as actor Hugh Grant and former Labour deputy leader Lord Tom Watson, are now compiling a dossier of evidence to present to the Metropolitan Police. They hope to prompt a fresh criminal investigation into allegations of perjury and cover-ups by NGN executives.

It has been reported that, if the police fail to act, individuals may pursue private criminal prosecutions to ensure that justice is served.

Emma Jones, from the press abuse campaign group Hacked Off, said she hopes such drastic measures will not be necessary. “This surely is a matter for government and the police. If unlawful behaviour took place and the people did that, lied under oath, not just to the public but at the Leveson Inquiry and in a court case, what does that mean? The very worse that that means is that it is perjury, a criminal offence, we'd like the police to thoroughly investigate this.”

Hugh Grant, who himself settled a phone-hacking case against NGN, has joined those urging the police to act. He warned that the evidence against the company could potentially trigger a criminal inquiry.

Meanwhile, Chris Huhne, the former cabinet minister who also reached a settlement with NGN, wrote to Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, criticising the force’s past handling of the phone-hacking scandal. He stated, “The Metropolitan Police have behaved appallingly. I would much prefer to see another police force deal with it because frankly, the Metropolitan Police have not covered themselves in glory in this whole thing.”

The campaigners’ efforts are bolstered by significant revelations. During pre-trial hearings, NGN admitted for the first time that unlawful activities were carried out by private investigators working for The Sun. This marked a significant departure from the company’s previous denials of wrongdoing at the paper.

Despite this admission, NGN continues to deny allegations of phone hacking and insists its journalists were not involved in criminality.

Lord Watson, who joined Prince Harry in the legal action, announced plans to submit the dossier of evidence to the Metropolitan Police. The file, which may take weeks to complete, reportedly includes material that was previously unavailable to investigators.

On Wednesday, the Met confirmed it was aware of the settlement and had requested transcripts from the pre-trial hearings. However, a spokesperson stated there were “no active investigations” into phone hacking or related matters.

The fallout from the phone-hacking scandal has significantly tarnished the reputation of NGN and raised questions about the ethical standards of the wider national press. Allegations of perjury, email deletions, and the destruction of evidence have prompted calls for greater accountability and transparency within the UK’s media industry.

The Duke of Sussex’s perseverance in pursuing his legal claim has reignited discussions about press standards and the need for robust oversight of powerful media corporations.

While the reputation of the national press has been damaged by these scandals, local and regional journalism continues to hold an untarnished place in British mainstream media.

Unlike their national counterparts, local independent news publishers have maintained a reputation for accuracy, reliability, and integrity. These outlets play a crucial role in underpinning local democracy, holding power to account, and serving their communities with trustworthy reporting.

GREGGS BAKERY RECALLS STEAK BAKES DUE TO MISLABELLING RISK - 🥧 Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group Gre...
21/01/2025

GREGGS BAKERY RECALLS STEAK BAKES DUE TO MISLABELLING RISK - 🥧

Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group

Greggs has issued an urgent product recall after some of its two-pack Steak Bakes, sold exclusively at Iceland stores, were found to contain Sausage, Bean and Cheese Melts instead.

The mislabelling poses a potential health risk for people with a sensitivity to sulphur dioxide or sulphites, which are not listed on the label.

The affected products have a best-before date of 19th May 2025. Customers who have purchased these items are advised not to consume them. Instead, they should return the product to the Iceland store where it was bought for a full refund.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued an Allergy Alert, warning customers about the potential risk. A spokesman for the FSA said, “Greggs is recalling the above product from customers and has contacted the relevant allergy support organisations, which will tell their members about the recall.

“The company has also issued a point-of-sale notice to its customers. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product.

“If you have bought the above product and have a sensitivity to sulphur dioxide and/or sulphites, do not consume it. Instead, return it to your nearest Iceland store from where it was bought for a full refund.”

For further information, customers can contact Greggs’ Customer Care team on 08081 473 447 or via email at [email protected].

A spokesperson for Greggs added, “This two-pack product is exclusive to Iceland and therefore the recall is only applicable to product purchased from Iceland stores. No other products, date codes, or batches are affected.

“We are very sorry for any inconvenience caused.”

Customers are urged to check their purchases carefully and follow the advice given to ensure their safety.

For updates on product recalls and food safety, visit the Food Standards Agency website.

( Photo: Getty Images 📸 )

DOG OWNERS WARNED: BEWARE OF POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS CHINESE TREATS LINKED TO ‘WEREWOLF SYNDROME’ -  ⚠️ 🐕 Report by Duncan...
18/01/2025

DOG OWNERS WARNED: BEWARE OF POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS CHINESE TREATS LINKED TO ‘WEREWOLF SYNDROME’ - ⚠️ 🐕

Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group

Dog owners are being urged to exercise caution when selecting chews for their pets after the Food Standards Agency (FSA) issued a warning about treats imported from China.

Reports from the European Union (EU) suggest that certain chews may be linked to a rare and alarming condition in dogs, commonly referred to as "werewolf syndrome".

This condition has been associated with sudden and severe behavioural changes, including panic attacks, aggression, and uncontrollable howling or crying. In more severe cases, affected dogs have suffered from spasms, epileptic fits, and even death.

While no cases have been confirmed in the UK, the FSA has highlighted the possibility that some pet owners may have purchased these products online from international sellers.

Tina Potter, Head of Incidents at the FSA, stated: “While there is no confirmed distribution of affected products to the UK, there is the possibility that some consumers may have purchased these online from international sellers. No unsafe dog chews have been identified but, based on international investigations so far, we are advising dog owners to avoid feeding the affected chews to dogs as a precaution. There is no evidence to suggest these products present any risk to human health.”

The affected products include specific chews under the Barkoo and Chrisco brands, with identified barcodes and expiry dates.

The FSA has advised dog owners to avoid using these chews and to seek veterinary advice immediately if their pet displays unusual symptoms after consumption. Providing detailed information about your dog’s diet, including any treats, is essential for diagnosis and care. Vets are also being urged to remain alert for signs of this condition and report suspected cases to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

FLU INFECTIONS RISING AT AN ALARMING RATE ACROSS ENGLAND - 📈 Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group Flu i...
03/01/2025

FLU INFECTIONS RISING AT AN ALARMING RATE ACROSS ENGLAND - 📈

Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group

Flu infection rates in England have surged dramatically, with the number of hospitalised patients quadrupling in the past month, NHS England has revealed. Over 5,000 people were receiving hospital treatment for flu at the end of last week, nearly 3.5 times higher than the same period in 2023.

Professor Julian Redhead, NHS National Clinical Director for Urgent and Emergency Care, highlighted the seriousness of the situation, stating: “The pressure from flu was nowhere near letting up before we headed into the new year, skyrocketing to over 5,000 cases a day in hospital as of the end of last week and rising at a very concerning rate.”

The surge in flu cases is exacerbating pressure on an already overstretched NHS. Last week, more than 12,200 patients were left waiting in ambulances for over an hour before they could be admitted to hospital. Dr Adrian Boyle, President of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, said: “What we are seeing is ambulances are frequently stuck outside emergency departments and our emergency departments are full.”

He added: “Flu is the straw that is breaking the camel’s back because we have this chronic lack of beds within our hospitals, and we don’t use those beds properly because we haven’t reformed social care.”

Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation, said the service is in a position of "national vulnerability" with "intense pressures" gripping local services despite steps taken to prepare for winter challenges. Hospitals have implemented measures such as adding extra beds, reintroducing mask mandates, and restricting visitors to limit the spread of flu.

Professor Redhead also issued advice for vulnerable individuals and those with respiratory conditions, particularly with a severe cold snap expected. “With what looks like an extreme cold snap expected right across England ahead of the weekend, we know the low temperatures can be dangerous for those who are vulnerable or have respiratory conditions.”

The NHS urges everyone in at-risk groups to try to keep warm and ensure they are well-stocked with any regular medication.

BREAKING THE HABIT: HOW TO QUIT SMOKING FOR GOOD - 🚭 Report by Kelly Leonard for Poole Post - News Group Smoking remains...
01/01/2025

BREAKING THE HABIT: HOW TO QUIT SMOKING FOR GOOD - 🚭

Report by Kelly Leonard for Poole Post - News Group

Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease in Britain. It’s a habit deeply ingrained in daily life for many, yet its devastating health effects - such as heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke - are well-documented.

For smokers, the decision to quit is a vital step towards better health, but it’s not without its challenges. Understanding why quitting is so difficult and exploring effective strategies can make the journey to a smoke-free life much more achievable.

The addictive nature of ci******es is one of the primary reasons why quitting feels almost impossible for some.

Ci******es contain ni****ne, a substance that triggers the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and creating feelings of pleasure and relaxation. This effect can be especially pronounced in men, studies suggest, as they are often more reliant on the stimulant properties of smoking.

Over time, this dependency leads to powerful cravings and withdrawal symptoms when quitting, including irritability, headaches, nausea, and intense urges to smoke - barriers that often lead to relapse.

Social and environmental factors also play a significant role in keeping people hooked. In Britain, smoking is still closely linked with socialising, particularly in settings like pub beer gardens where alcohol is consumed. This association makes it challenging for many men to resist lighting up in social situations. Additionally, the widespread availability of ci******es means temptation is never far away, even for those who are determined to quit.

Despite these challenges, quitting smoking is entirely possible, and the benefits far outweigh the difficulties. Success often lies in finding the right combination of strategies tailored to individual needs.

Ni****ne replacement therapy (NRT) is one effective approach. Products like patches, gums, and sprays deliver controlled doses of ni****ne without the harmful chemicals found in ci******es, helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms.

A newer option gaining popularity in the UK is ni****ne pouches. These discreet, tobacco-free alternatives offer a quick and smoke-free way to manage cravings, making them particularly useful in public spaces or workplaces where smoking is prohibited.

Setting clear and realistic goals is another powerful tool. Instead of vague ambitions like "smoking less", try breaking down the process into manageable steps. For example, aim to reduce the number of ci******es smoked each day or set a firm quit date.

Keeping your goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) can help maintain focus and motivation. Reflecting on personal reasons for quitting - whether it’s improving health, saving money, or being there for loved ones - can provide an emotional anchor to keep you on track.

Support from others can make a world of difference. Whether it’s through local smoking cessation services, online forums, or gender-specific support groups, sharing your journey with others who understand the struggle can provide encouragement and accountability. Many resources across Britain offer tailored support, including NHS services designed to help smokers quit for good.

While quitting smoking is undeniably tough, it’s important to remember that every step forward is a victory. Slip-ups are a natural part of the process, but revisiting your reasons for quitting and seeking support can help you stay the course. The rewards - better health, more energy, and a longer life - are well worth the effort.

Breaking free from smoking is one of the most life-changing decisions you can make. With the right strategies and support, a smoke-free future is well within reach.

HOW TO ENJOY CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK - 🎁 Report by Kelly Leonard for Poole Post - News Group The f...
18/12/2024

HOW TO ENJOY CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK - 🎁

Report by Kelly Leonard for Poole Post - News Group

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 doesn’t have to mean emptying your bank account.

With a bit of creativity and thoughtfulness, it’s possible to enjoy a magical Christmas without overspending.

The run-up to Christmas is where much of the season’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, it’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 it’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 isn’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 it’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, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of adverts and expectations, but it’s worth pausing to remember what truly makes this time special. The joy of Christmas isn’t found in a pile of expensive presents or a lavishly decorated home. It’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 year’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 don’t cost a penny - time, love, and the memories made together.

NHS WARNS OF 'FESTIVE FLU' CRISIS AS FLU HOSPITALISATIONS JUMP 70%  - 📈 Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News ...
12/12/2024

NHS WARNS OF 'FESTIVE FLU' CRISIS AS FLU HOSPITALISATIONS JUMP 70% - 📈

Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group

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 “quad-demic” - 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, “The 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 ‘festive flu’.”

Health Secretary Wes Streeting echoed this call, urging people to act now, saying, “Protect yourself, your family, and the NHS by getting vaccinated before it’s too late.”

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 📸 )

WEEKLY WELLBEING: THE POWER OF COMPASSION - 🤍 Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group  Compassion is celeb...
10/11/2024

WEEKLY WELLBEING: THE POWER OF COMPASSION - 🤍

Report by Duncan Williams for Poole Post - News Group

Compassion is celebrated across cultures and religious traditions as one of humanity's highest virtues. Although ambition, achievement, and self-reliance are frequently prized above this essential quality, compassion remains a quiet yet transformative force, shaping the lives of both those who offer it and those who receive it.

The Dalai Lama once expressed a simple yet profound truth: “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” These words reveal a striking insight - kindness benefits not only others but also ourselves. In practising kindness, we foster a more empathetic world while also nourishing our own hearts and souls.

True kindness begins with the self. Many think of it as an outward expression, especially directed toward those in distress, but it often starts with a friendly attitude towards ourselves - a sense of self-acceptance and gentle self-regard. When we learn to be patient and understanding with ourselves, despite our imperfections, we lay a foundation for genuine care toward others. Self-compassion is essential; if we judge ourselves harshly or resist accepting our own humanity, we may unintentionally carry that same rigidity into our interactions. By fostering warmth toward ourselves, it becomes natural to extend that same gentleness to others.

There’s a common misconception that this virtue is only needed in times of visible suffering. While it certainly shines brightest during hardship, it doesn’t require a crisis to emerge. It is a mindset - a way of relating to others with openness, kindness, and generosity. This outlook allows us to see others without judgment or expectation and to be present for them, even if there is no problem to solve. Being compassionate isn’t about fixing others’ struggles; it simply invites us to offer a calming and trusting presence.

Although compassion is part of our nature, it can sometimes feel distant, especially if we’ve grown guarded due to pain, disappointment, or cynicism. During such times, we may feel disconnected, even detached from the ability to empathise with others. Yet, even in these moments, it remains within reach. Reconnecting with it often begins with small acts - a warm smile, a listening ear, or a few words of encouragement. These gestures may seem insignificant, yet they have the power to gently bridge the distance between us and others.

As we practise this openness, it grows stronger, like a muscle. With time, it becomes easier to approach the world with an open heart, even in the face of challenges. In embracing compassion, we are reminded of our shared humanity, rediscovering that, despite our differences, we all seek understanding, kindness, and connection. Ultimately, compassion is more than a virtue - it’s a quiet strength, one that transforms not only how we see others but how we see ourselves and the world around us.

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