Elder, the UK’s leading care home care platform, has urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to put an end to rumours regarding tax-free pension changes by providing clarity ahead of the Autumn Budget.
Media and analysts have speculated that Reeves could make changes to the 25% tax-free Pension Commencement Lump Sum (PCLS), which, in turn has seen a heightened level of pension withdrawals and anxiety for taxpayers.
According to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the money withdrawn from pensions soared by more than a third in 2024/25, jumping from £52.2 to £70.9 billion.
Elder Founder and CEO Pete Dowds said that the Chancellor’s silence on the PCLS was forcing families into irreversible financial decisions.
“The cost of leaving families in this state of uncertainty is far too high, and savers who have worked diligently to provide for their later years deserve stability and assurance,” he told That's Food and Drink.
“We strongly urge the Chancellor to address this speculation now, before the Budget, to safeguard the retirement plans of millions of hardworking families.”
Mr Dowds said that the PCLS was the most crucial source of accessible capital used to cover the upfront costs of care for self-funding families, and if changes were made, it would also undermine the Government’s ‘Home First’ objective to support people at home and improve hospital flow.
“The tax-free lump sum provides the essential bridge that allows people to afford high-quality live-in care, keeping them independent and actively supporting the reduction of pressure on the NHS,” he said.
“Any budget measure that diminishes the value of this tax-efficient capital would hasten the depletion of families’ savings, undermining their ability to self-fund.”
FACTFILE:-
In its tenth year, Elder is an award-winning home care platform that matches older adults with self-employed carers for flexible and personalised home care across the UK.
Founded on the principle that home is the best place to age, Elder is committed to delivering solutions that enhance patient dignity and provide families with peace of mind. Elder has helped to deliver more than 15 million hours of home care across the UK.
Whilst eating my wife's delicious homemade cabbage soup one lunchtime we began reminiscing about the famed cabbage soup diet of several years ago and I realised it was time to write a blogpost about this largely forgotten diet of several years ago.
Few diets have been as talked about, tried, and teased as the famous Cabbage Soup Diet. From office lunchrooms to celebrity gossip magazines, this simple, low-calorie plan has achieved near-legendary status over the years.
But how much of what we hear about it is true, and how much is pure myth? Let’s lift the lid on the pot and see what’s really simmering inside.
The Origins of the Cabbage Soup Diet
The Cabbage Soup Diet dates back to the late 1980s or early 1990s, though its exact beginnings are unclear.
Some claim it started as a hospital diet to help patients lose weight quickly before surgery (a claim with no real proof), while others say it emerged from the rise of fad diets promising dramatic, short-term results.
What’s certain is that it’s a seven-day eating plan centred around a hearty vegetable soup made mostly from cabbage, onions, celery, peppers, tomatoes, and carrots. Other foods are introduced in a strict daily pattern—such as fruit on day one, vegetables on day two, bananas and milk on day four, and lean meat by day five.
There were even Cabbage Soup Diet tablets that were available filled with essence of cabbage soup at one time!
The Myths
Myth 1: You Can Lose a Stone in a Week
It’s true that many people lose a noticeable amount of weight during the week, sometimes half a stone or more.
However, much of that is water weight, not fat loss. When you cut calories drastically and reduce carbohydrates, your body sheds water quickly. Once normal eating resumes, most of that weight tends to return.
Myth 2: It’s a Healthy, Sustainable Diet
While cabbage and vegetables are full of nutrients, the diet itself is not balanced. It’s low in protein, essential fats, and key vitamins such as B12. Following it for more than a week can leave you feeling tired, irritable, and lacking energy.
Myth 3: Cabbage Has “Fat-Burning” Powers
Unfortunately, there’s no magical fat-burning enzyme in cabbage. The diet works purely because of extreme calorie restriction, not because cabbage has any special slimming properties.
The Truths
Truth 1: It Can Kick-Start Weight Loss
If you’re looking to break unhealthy habits, a short stint on the Cabbage Soup Diet can help you feel lighter, reduce bloating, and reset your mindset around portion sizes.
Truth 2: It Encourages Vegetable Intake
The diet does make you eat a lot of fresh vegetables, something many of us could do more of. For some, it’s a helpful way to rediscover the value of home-cooked, plant-based meals.
Truth 3: It’s Cheap and Simple
In a world full of expensive shakes and subscription meal plans, the Cabbage Soup Diet stands out for being budget-friendly. A head of cabbage, some onions, and a few tins of tomatoes cost very little, making it appealing to anyone wanting to cut back without breaking the bank.
So, Should You Try It?
If you’re after quick but temporary results, the Cabbage Soup Diet can deliver that short burst of motivation. But it’s not a long-term solution. The NHS and most UK dietitians advise focusing on a balanced plan with lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruit and veg for sustainable, healthy weight management.
That said, there’s nothing wrong with using the Cabbage Soup Diet as a gentle reset—just don’t expect miracles or plan to live on cabbage forever!
Cabbage Soup for the Soul
Perhaps the real secret isn’t in the diet at all, but in the ritual of making soup. Preparing fresh vegetables, simmering them slowly, and sitting down to a warm, comforting bowl can be therapeutic in itself. The process helps reconnect us with real food, and that’s nourishment for both body and soul.
The Cabbage Soup Diet may not be a magic solution, but it remains a reminder that sometimes the simplest foods can help us start again. If you do give it a go, treat it as a short-term boost, then move on to a more balanced, sustainable way of eating.
As for the Cabbage Soup Diet tablets or Cabbage Soup Diet soup mixes that are available, we can make no comment on their efficacy!
If you want to try the Cabbage Soup Diet plan, here it is:-
Printable 7-Day Cabbage Soup Diet Plan
Disclaimer: This plan is for short-term use only and should not replace a balanced, long-term diet. Always check with a healthcare professional before starting any restrictive eating plan.
Day 1 – Fruit Day
Unlimited cabbage soup
Any fruit except bananas
Water, black coffee, or unsweetened tea
Day 2 – Vegetable Day
Unlimited cabbage soup
Any vegetables (fresh, steamed, or raw) except peas, corn, or beans
A baked potato with a small knob of butter for dinner
Day 3 – Fruit and Vegetable Day
Cabbage soup plus any fruits and vegetables (no potato today)
Keep hydrated with water or herbal tea
Day 4 – Banana and Milk Day
Up to 3 bananas
2 pints (1.2 litres) of skimmed milk
Cabbage soup as often as you like
Day 5 – Protein and Tomatoes
6 fresh tomatoes
Lean beef, chicken, or fish (approx. 300–400g total)
Cabbage soup at least once during the day
Drink at least 6–8 glasses of water
Day 6 – Protein and Vegetables
Lean beef, chicken, or fish
Any non-starchy vegetables
Unlimited cabbage soup
Day 7 – Rice and Vegetables
Brown rice, vegetables, and cabbage soup
Sugar-free fruit juice optional
Modernised Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe
This version keeps the soul of the original but improves the nutrition and flavour — so it’s tasty enough to enjoy beyond the diet week.
Pour in the stock and tomatoes, bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer for 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning; garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutritional Note:
This soup is low in calories, high in fibre, and full of vitamins A, C, and K. Adding a handful of cooked lentils or beans makes it more balanced if you’re not strictly following the diet.
Bringing It All Together
Whether you’re looking to reset your eating habits, save money, or simply enjoy a warming, wholesome soup, the Cabbage Soup Diet can be a mindful start to a healthier routine, just remember it’s the first step, not the destination.
As the UK continues to manage COVID-19 as an endemic virus, vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illness and hospitalisation.
However, it’s perfectly natural to want to understand what side effects might occur after getting your jab or booster
Here’s a straightforward guide to the most common, less common and rare side effects for each of the main vaccines used in the UK: Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty), Moderna (Spikevax), Novavax, and the earlier AstraZeneca vaccine.
Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty)
Pfizer is the most widely used COVID-19 vaccine in the UK and has an excellent safety record.
Common side effects:
Soreness or redness where the injection was given
Fatigue and mild headache
Muscle or joint pain
Slight fever or chills
Feeling generally under the weather for a day or two
Less common effects:
Swollen lymph nodes (especially under the arm where you were jabbed)
Nausea or mild dizziness
Rare effects:
Myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of the heart or its lining), particularly in young men. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, or a fluttering heartbeat. This reaction is rare and usually mild.
Moderna (Spikevax)
Moderna works in a similar way to Pfizer and offers strong protection.
Common side effects:
Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site
Headache and tiredness
Mild fever or chills
Muscle or joint aches
Less common effects:
Swelling of the lymph nodes
Temporary skin rash or itching
Menstrual cycle changes, though these are short-term
Rare effects:
Myocarditis and pericarditis, again mainly seen in younger men after the second dose. These cases are rare and usually resolve with rest and medical care.
Novavax
Novavax, a protein-based vaccine, is sometimes offered as an alternative for those who cannot have an mRNA vaccine.
Common side effects:
Tenderness at the injection site
Headache, fatigue, or feeling feverish
Muscle pain or nausea
Less common effects:
Mild swelling of lymph nodes
Dizziness or slight changes in blood pressure
Rare effects:
Allergic reactions (very uncommon and treated immediately if they occur)
AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria)
While no longer routinely used for boosters in the UK, many people received AstraZeneca for their primary doses.
Common side effects:
Soreness or mild swelling at the injection site
Fatigue and headache
Mild fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms lasting 24–48 hours
Less common effects:
Nausea or mild vomiting
Feeling faint or light-headed
Rare effects:
Blood clots with low platelets (thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome) – a very rare side effect, affecting fewer than 15 people per million doses
Severe allergic reactions (extremely rare and treated promptly)
What You Should Do After Vaccination
If you experience mild side effects such as soreness, headache or fever, these can usually be managed with rest and paracetamol. They are signs that your immune system is responding as it should.
However, seek urgent medical advice from NHS 111 or your GP if you develop:
Chest pain or persistent pressure
Shortness of breath
Swelling, blurred vision or severe headache
Unusual bruising or bleeding
A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed
COVID-19 vaccines continue to undergo thorough safety monitoring by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Millions of doses have been safely administered across the UK, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the small risk of side effects.
For personalised medical advice, especially if you have a history of allergic reactions or heart conditions, speak to your GP or local vaccination centre before booking your next dose.
Stay informed. Stay healthy. Stay protected.
For more updates on vaccination, health and wellbeing, visit That’s Health.
BMI is often used as the main measure of health and weight, but it can be misleading.
Discover why BMI isn’t the full picture and what to focus on instead for better weight management and wellbeing.
Understanding BMI and Its Limitations
Body Mass Index (BMI) has long been used to classify people as underweight, a healthy weight, overweight, or obese. It’s calculated by dividing your weight (in kilograms) by your height (in metres squared).
While it’s easy to use, BMI doesn’t show what your body weight is made of, and that’s a serious limitation. It can’t tell the difference between fat, muscle, or bone, so it often gives an incomplete or misleading picture of overall health.
Why BMI Alone Can Be Misleading
Two people can share the same BMI but have completely different health profiles.
A rugby player or gym-goer might register as “obese” due to muscle mass.
Someone with a “normal” BMI might have higher visceral fat, the dangerous type that wraps around organs and raises the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
BMI can’t tell the difference between fat and muscle, nor does it show where that fat is stored. That’s why it should be used only as one part of a wider health picture.
Ethnicity, Age and Sex All Play a Role
BMI fails to account for natural variations between people.
Women naturally carry more body fat than men.
Older adults often lose muscle and bone density, lowering BMI without improving health.
People of South Asian or Black heritage may face increased risks of diabetes or heart disease at lower BMIs than standard NHS guidelines suggest.
Health is personal, and one size, or one number, doesn’t fit all.
Better Ways to Assess Health
For a clearer picture of your wellbeing, consider these more reliable tools:
Waist-to-hip ratio or waist circumference – A better measure of fat distribution and heart disease risk.
Body composition analysis – Shows fat, muscle, and water percentages.
Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels – Key indicators of metabolic health.
Fitness and mobility – Flexibility, endurance, and energy are better measures of wellness.
Lifestyle habits – Nutrition, sleep, hydration, and stress levels all play major roles.
Chasing a “perfect” BMI can damage self-esteem and lead to unhealthy dieting or over-exercising. True wellbeing includes mental and emotional balance, not just physical weight.
If you’re working on improving your health, focus on how you feel — not just what you weigh.
Practical advice on ditching diet guilt and creating a healthier, happier approach to eating.
A Holistic Approach to Weight Management
Real, sustainable health comes from small, consistent habits — nutritious meals, regular movement, good sleep, and self-care.
Rather than striving for a number on a chart, focus on vitality, energy, and confidence. When you take care of your body as a whole, your natural healthy weight will follow.
BMI can provide a rough guide, but it shouldn’t define you. Every body is different, and health can’t be reduced to a single statistic.
If you want to understand your weight and wellbeing more deeply, speak with a GP, nutritionist, or fitness professional who looks at the full picture, not just your BMI.
Practical advice for couples facing the winter blues.
As the days shorten and the light fades, many people notice a dip in mood and energy. For some, however, this goes far beyond feeling “a bit low.” Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a recognised type of depression that appears during the darker months, and if your spouse suffers from it, both of you may feel its effects.
This guide from That’s Health explores how you can support your partner while looking after your own wellbeing too.
Understanding SAD in Relationships
Seasonal Affective Disorder is caused primarily by reduced sunlight, which disrupts the body’s internal clock and affects serotonin and melatonin levels. Common symptoms include:
Persistent low mood or loss of interest in usual activities
Increased need for sleep or difficulty waking up
Irritability, withdrawal, or low motivation
Cravings for carbohydrates or comfort foods
Difficulty concentrating
When your spouse’s personality seems to shift with the season, it can be upsetting, but recognising that SAD is a genuine medical condition, not a choice, helps you respond with empathy rather than frustration.
Encourage Professional Help
If your spouse hasn’t yet sought medical support, encourage them to talk to their GP. There are effective treatments available, including:
Light therapy lamps that mimic natural sunlight and help regulate mood
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which teaches coping techniques
Medication (such as antidepressants) for more severe cases
Offer to help them book an appointment, attend with them, or keep a mood diary to share with their doctor. Sometimes, simply showing that you take their condition seriously can be reassuring.
Create a Light-Filled, Positive Environment at Home
You can make your home a brighter, more uplifting space with a few small adjustments:
Open curtains fully during the day and trim back any outdoor plants blocking windows
Use bright, warm lighting indoors
Encourage time spent near windows or outdoors when possible
Consider using a dawn simulator alarm clock that gradually brightens in the morning
Even subtle increases in light exposure can make a noticeable difference.
Coping as a Couple During the Darker Months
When one partner is struggling, it affects the relationship as a whole. Try to face the season as a team.
Plan together: Schedule small, enjoyable activities to look forward to
Keep communication open: Talk honestly about how you’re both feeling
Don’t take withdrawal personally: Your partner’s quietness or irritability is likely a symptom, not a reflection of you
Remember, the goal is to support your spouse, not to “fix” them. Listening and being present can often be the best medicine.
Encourage Gentle Activity and Fresh Air
Exercise can lift mood and energy, but motivation can be low during a SAD episode. Instead of pressuring your spouse, offer gentle encouragement:
Invite them for a short walk together during daylight hours
Try easy home workouts or stretching sessions
Combine movement with pleasure, for example, a stroll through a Christmas market or along a scenic winter trail
It’s the companionship and gradual reintroduction to light that count most.
Look After Yourself Too
Supporting a partner with depression can be emotionally draining. To stay strong and positive:
Maintain your own social life and hobbies
Share how you’re feeling with trusted friends or family
Seek support if you begin to feel overwhelmed
You can only truly support your spouse if you protect your own mental wellbeing too.
Winter Wellbeing Tips for Couples
Make the darker months more bearable, even enjoyable, by embracing small, cosy routines:
Cook comforting, nutritious meals together
Watch uplifting films under a blanket
Explore seasonal activities such as light festivals or winter crafts
Take Vitamin D supplements (check with your GP first)
Add bright indoor plants to boost mood and oxygen levels
Finding light, warmth, and laughter in simple moments helps combat the gloom of winter.
When to Seek Urgent Help
If your spouse shows signs of deep depression, such as hopelessness, talk of self-harm, or emotional withdrawal, don’t wait. Seek help immediately.
In the UK, you can contact:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7, free)
NHS 111 – For urgent mental health support
Mind – Visit mind.org.uk for advice and online resources
Supporting your spouse through Seasonal Affective Disorder takes patience, understanding, and teamwork. By combining medical guidance, gentle lifestyle changes, and plenty of compassion, you can help them find hope and stability even in the darkest months of the year.
And remember, spring will come again, bringing warmth, sunlight, and renewal for you both.
It appears that the government rules on the shingles aren't the only vaccination programme that is causing confusion, upset and misery.
As winter approaches, many people across the UK are once again turning their thoughts to protecting themselves from seasonal illnesses such as flu and COVID-19.
But this year, a wave of confusion has swept through communities as changes to the NHS’s COVID-19 vaccination eligibility rules have quietly removed large numbers of people who were previously entitled to free jabs.
Until recently, individuals with chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, asthma, heart disease, or autoimmune issues were automatically classed as being “at higher risk” and therefore eligible for the free NHS COVID booster. For many, this protection became an important part of their annual health routine, a reassurance that their conditions were being taken seriously.
Now, however, the latest guidance has changed, and not everyone has realised. Under the new rules, only those aged 70 and over, people living in care homes, or those who are clinically extremely vulnerable (such as transplant patients or those on strong immunosuppressive therapy) are automatically offered the jab. Many others who were once eligible have been quietly moved off the list.
This means that someone aged 55 with well-managed Type 2 diabetes or mild asthma, who received free vaccinations in previous years, is now told they are not eligible and must pay privately if they still wish to be vaccinated.
Understandably, this has caused frustration and confusion, especially given that COVID infections continue to circulate and that many people in these groups still consider themselves at higher risk.
While NHS officials say the new policy focuses on “those most likely to benefit,” critics argue that it creates unnecessary uncertainty and risk for people with underlying conditions that can still make COVID serious.
It also places extra strain on GPs and pharmacists, who are having to field a flood of questions about eligibility and referrals.
I booked my regular COVID vaccination through the NHS app and had a confirmed booking at the pharmacist the app suggested. When I arrived at the pharmacy he told me that as someone with Type 2 Diabetes and Asthma I was now no longer eligible for the COVID vaccination and he was shocked that the NHS app had issued me with an appointment.
He suggested I consider getting a private vaccination and when I asked if he could offer that service he said it wasn't something his pharmacy could offer, but suggested I booked an appointment with Boots. The member of staff I initially spoke to wasn't aware that the eligibility criteria had changed, which added another later of confusion.
So, f you find yourself newly excluded from the NHS programme, it is worth considering a private COVID vaccination. Many high-street pharmacies, including Boots and Superdrug, are now offering private COVID boosters for around £45–£50 per dose. Appointments are usually easy to book online, and the same approved vaccines are used as in NHS settings.
For people managing chronic conditions, or those who live or work closely with vulnerable individuals, paying for private vaccination may be a worthwhile investment in peace of mind and continued protection.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or health status, check the latest NHS advice online or speak to your GP or pharmacist. But one thing is clear: with the guidance changing so dramatically, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and proactive about your protection this winter.
I was eventually able to book my COVID shot with Boots.
Shingles isn’t just “a bit of a rash.” It’s an agonising, nerve-related condition caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus.
Once you’ve had chickenpox, that virus never leaves your body; it simply lies dormant, waiting for an opportunity to reactivate later in life.
When it does, it reappears as shingles, a painful, blistering rash that can lead to months (or even years) of nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia.
As a sufferer from shingles I can confirm that it is a nasty, painful condition. And it was my struggles to try to understand the NHS rules that prompted me to research and write this blogpost and to eventually fund my own shingles vaccination.
The NHS Rules: A Maze of Eligibility
In theory, the NHS offers a free shingles vaccination to protect people from this debilitating illness. In practice, the rules about who qualifies and when they qualify are bafflingly complex.
Under current NHS guidelines in England, the free shingles vaccine is available to people aged 70 to 79, and now also those turning 65 on or after 1 September 2023. But if you’re 66, 67, 68 or 69, you’re expected to wait, even though your risk of shingles doesn’t magically disappear until the NHS sends an invite.
Worse still, these rules vary across the UK. In Scotland and Wales, eligibility criteria differ again. The result? Many people who would benefit from the vaccine find themselves excluded simply because of their birth date or postcode.
It’s a frustrating situation, and it leaves a huge number of adults in their 50s and 60s without protection, despite shingles being most common in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
Why Paying for the Vaccine Is Worth It
If you’re not eligible for a free NHS jab, it’s well worth paying privately. Pharmacies such as Boots, Lloyds, and Superdrug offer the Shingrix vaccine, which provides excellent long-term protection and can be administered in two doses a few months apart.
Here’s why it’s worth considering, even out of pocket:
Avoid excruciating pain: Shingles can be intensely painful, often described as burning or stabbing.
Prevent complications: The condition can cause scarring, nerve damage, vision loss (if it affects the eyes), and in rare cases, serious neurological problems.
Reduce time off work or daily disruption: Shingles can leave sufferers exhausted and unable to function for weeks. My late father was so ill with shingles that his doctor ordered him to take bedrest for a week.
Protect your long-term health: The older you get, the more severe shingles tends to be, so prevention is key.
The cost of the vaccine privately is typically around £200–£250 for the full course. That might sound steep, but compared to the months of pain, doctor visits, and medication that shingles can bring, it’s an investment in comfort and quality of life.
The NHS Needs Simplification
While it’s excellent that the NHS provides the vaccine for some, the staggered, age-based rollout has turned something simple into a bureaucratic nightmare. Many people eligible in theory are confused by the shifting rules or unaware they qualify at all. Others are left wondering why they must wait years to get protection that’s readily available in other developed countries for anyone over 50.
Until the NHS streamlines its approach and offers the shingles vaccine more widely, taking control of your own health and arranging a private jab may well be the most sensible move.
Bottom line: Don’t wait for a letter. Don’t risk weeks or months of unnecessary suffering. Whether free or paid for, the shingles vaccination is one of the smartest health decisions you can make.
It was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
While live-in care promotes longevity and continuity, there are very few instances where a carer resides in the home for a remarkable eight years.
For Mr John Beard and his late wife Jean, this was precisely the case. The bond they formed with their carer, Oyeyemi ‘Yemi’ Olaseinde, was undeniable.
“She used to call me dad,” said a smiling Mr Beard.
Yemi’s eight years of continuous care meant putting her life in London on hold, spending months at a time away from her two daughters. During the pandemic, and as Jean’s dementia worsened, Yemi stayed with the couple for six consecutive months.
This is the longest care placement Elder has facilitated, and perhaps one of the longest examples of “loving care” as Mr Beard describes it, in the country.
We travel to the sleepy but strikingly beautiful part of the UK, Great Longstone in the Peak District, where Mr Beard resides in the Bungalow built for Jean. It’s a home brimming with character and rich in memories.
Greeted at the door by the 90-something-year-old, Mr Beard ushers us over to a framed photo of the couple from their 1954 wedding, and a certificate from the Queen of England acknowledging their diamond anniversary.
As we’re seated in the living room, Mr Beard hands over his wife’s funeral programme and remarks on her picture.
“That was taken when I went into the RAF,” he said.
“We got married on July 10, 1954, and I was called up in October.
“I had it by my locker.”
Mr and Mrs Beard dated from the ages of 16 to 22; their bond solidified at a local church youth club. The couple’s first encounter, or rather Jean first laying eyes on John, was rather comical.
“She once saw me riding to school and thought my cycling was somewhat ungainly," he said, chuckling.
She said to a friend ‘Who’s that drip?’, and she put up with that drip for 71 years.
“She was a bit shy, she was interested in everything, she was straightforward.
“She was my all.”
After Mr Beard left the RAF in 1956, as part of his national service, the couple moved to Sheffield to raise a family. With the welcomed addition of their two children, Alastair and Fiona, the family moved several times before residing in Ashford In The Water, not five kilometres from their Dagenham bungalow.
Jean ran the home whilst devoting her time to her local community. She served as treasurer and a committee member for The Ashford Institute and The Women’s Institute, an organisation that provides a space for women to connect, learn new skills, and campaign on issues. She also volunteered for numerous years at the Bakewell Red Cross Store.
Mr Beard built himself a successful career as an accountant, joining what had been his grandfather’s firm in Sheffield. In retirement, he became heavily involved with the Freemasons. As a member of the charitable committee, he ultimately earned himself the title of Deputy Grand Master for Derbyshire.
Noticing the signs of dementia
Upon Jean’s dementia diagnosis in 2009, it became apparent to Mr Beard that their home of 32 years, a converted 200-year-old barn in Foolow, wasn’t adequate for his wife’s needs.
Relocating to their bungalow a year later, Mr Beard recalled the time both he and Jean realised her condition was worsening.
“She’d taken our grandson to swimming. She had come out (in her vehicle) and didn’t know which way to turn. She turned left instead of right. It was then that I realised that something was wrong.”
“Then we went through all the different stages they go through. They worry about curtains getting pulled, doors being locked.
“Then it gets to the stage where they don’t worry. So in a way it’s good, but it also means they’re at a lower stage.”
It wasn’t until a fall, in which Mrs Beard fractured her pelvis, that Mr Beard realised he needed help.
“At that stage I had to do something,” he said.
“Whilst I could help her during the day, I couldn’t do the night bit as well.”
More than just a carer
At first, the idea of having a carer in the home can be daunting for most, but the help from carer Yemi proved invaluable in so many ways.
Within a few weeks, Yemi and Mrs Beard bonded. Between the care duties, they watched television, shopped, and completed puzzles, a favourite hobby of Mrs Beard’s before her diagnosis.
Mr Beard recalls the smells of Nigerian cooking and how Yemi referred to him as “dad”.
“She was very capable at caring, and she looked after Jean very well,” he said.
For eight years, the Beards, John, Fiona and Alastair, entrusted Yemi to their loved ones’ care. Yemi became the foundation of Jean’s world, and in turn, the family rallied to see Yemi return home to London for breaks when she could.
Mr Beard would pay for Yemi’s train tickets where he could, and Alastair would drive her back to London.
Before going on break, Yemi made sure that John and Jean found the best respite carer.
“We always tried to get the same carers, and Yemi was insistent she got the right person,” Mr Beard said.
“Yemi and I used to look at carers and make our decisions together.
“She (Jean) would settle when Yemi was away, but she always knew her when she came back.”
Away from her two daughters, Yemi was embraced as a member of the family and cared for Mrs Beard until her peaceful passing in March this year.
The benefits of live-in care
There was no doubt in Mr Beard’s mind that home, as opposed to a care home, was where his wife needed to be. Continuity of care and a familiar environment were paramount to Jean’s health, safety, and peace of mind.
“The fact that she was here (home) and I was here, it made life much better for her, and much better for us,” he said.
“Home every time.”
With the bungalow just around the corner from their daughter's home, the couple could expect regular visits from their grandchildren. This, Mr Beard said, used to “pluck up” his wife, especially as her dementia worsened.
“You tried telling her that you loved her very much, but you weren’t sure she was getting it,” he said.
“Towards the end, there wasn’t much reaction, but one breakfast time, I went in and got the most dazzling smile. It was like a ray of sunshine.”
Carer becomes a family member
Yemi knows all too well the hardships faced regarding a dementia diagnosis.
Looking after her grandmother, who lived with dementia, inspired her to become a carer.
“I like being a companion,” she said.
“That’s what a lot of the elderly want. A companion, a friend.”
Yemi’s longest placement with John and Jean Beard was for six months during the pandemic. While it was difficult being away from her two daughters for such a lengthy period, she described the Beard family as “marvellous”.
“Mrs Beard was used to me,” she said.
“I knew all of the family, the grandchildren, everyone.
“When it came time for the placement to end, Mr Beard didn’t want me to go.”
Mr Beard and Yemi still stay connected via regular phone calls.
The importance of an early dementia diagnosis
Mr Beard stressed the importance of looking out for signs of dementia and seeking help and a diagnosis immediately.
“First of all, you’ve got to realise the symptoms and you’ve got to make sure you get them looked at by a psychiatrist, via a doctor, because the signs are always there,” he said.
“It needs to be diagnosed at an early stage, and I’m all for that.”
Elder’s Head of Clinical, Bianca Wardle, concurs.
“From a clinical standpoint, an early dementia diagnosis is fundamentally the most important step a family can take, as it reduces uncertainty and gives the person and their families a greater sense of control,” she said.
“An early diagnosis allows families to develop a personalised care plan, involve relevant professionals, and introduce supportive therapies while the person can fully participate.
“Most importantly, it gives families the time to make informed decisions about care and future planning before a crisis hits.
“Waiting until symptoms worsen can make planning more challenging, may lead to last-minute decisions that affect the person's dignity and well-being, and could contribute to a faster progression of their condition."
As the wellness world continues to rediscover the power of nature, one ancient remedy is standing out among the rest: Chaga mushroom.
Long used in traditional herbal medicine, this powerful fungus is known for its ability to support immunity, gut health, and overall vitality.
Now, British wellness brand Grass & Co has harnessed that power in their beautifully crafted Biome Chaga Mushroom Powder, a simple, effective way to bring balance and natural energy into your daily routine.
What Is Chaga Mushroom?
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a nutrient-dense mushroom that grows mainly on birch trees in cold northern climates. While it doesn’t look much like the mushrooms you see in the supermarket (it’s a hard, charcoal-like mass), it’s bursting with antioxidants, beta-glucans, and adaptogenic properties that help the body manage stress and inflammation.
Traditionally, Chaga was brewed into a tea and used to strengthen immunity and improve digestion. Modern research supports these uses, noting that Chaga’s polyphenols and melanin compounds may help protect cells from oxidative stress — the kind linked to ageing and chronic illness.
Why Choose Grass & Co Biome Chaga Mushroom Powder?
Grass & Co has built its reputation on clean, plant-based wellness, and their Biome range takes that philosophy even further. This organic Chaga powder is:
100% natural and sustainably sourced
Vegan, gluten-free, and additive-free
Rich in antioxidants and gut-friendly prebiotics
Blended and packaged in the UK
Each serving contains concentrated Chaga extract that’s easy to mix into smoothies, coffee, porridge, or even soups. It’s earthy, mild, and blends seamlessly, so perfect for those who want to support their microbiome, immunity, and energy levels naturally.
Gut Health and Immunity: The Biome Connection
Grass & Co’s “Biome” name isn’t just branding, it’s a nod to the gut microbiome, the ecosystem of good bacteria that influences everything from mood to immunity. Chaga mushroom powder supports this internal environment by acting as a natural prebiotic, feeding beneficial bacteria and helping balance digestion.
A healthy gut can:
Boost nutrient absorption
Support immune resilience
Improve skin health
Promote emotional wellbeing
When paired with a balanced diet and lifestyle, Chaga becomes part of a holistic approach to wellness that’s both ancient and modern.
How to Use It
Using Grass & Co Biome Chaga Mushroom Powder is simple:
Add ½ to 1 teaspoon to a smoothie, hot chocolate, or your morning coffee.
Stir into warm plant milk with cinnamon or cocoa for a soothing evening drink.
Mix into porridge or overnight oats for an antioxidant-rich breakfast.
Its flavour is subtle, slightly earthy with notes of vanilla and birch,making it easy to incorporate without overpowering other tastes.
The Bottom Line
Grass & Co Biome Chaga Mushroom Powder brings centuries of herbal wisdom into modern, everyday living. If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective way to support your gut health, immune function, and natural energy, this beautifully packaged, UK-made product is well worth exploring.
Quick Peace of Mind. How Instant Home Thyroid Tests Can Reveal Results in Just 10 Minutes.
Feeling unusually tired, gaining or losing weight for no reason, or struggling with mood and energy changes?
These could all be signs of a thyroid imbalance, and waiting weeks for blood test results can make that uncertainty even more stressful.
Fortunately, instant home thyroid test kits are now available that give results in around ten minutes, right from the comfort of your own home.
These easy-to-use kits offer fast reassurance for anyone worried about their thyroid function, without the need to post a sample to a laboratory or book a GP appointment first.
What Is an Instant Thyroid Test Kit?
Instant thyroid test kits are rapid self-tests that work much like a pregnancy test or COVID lateral flow test. Using a small drop of blood from a finger-prick, the device analyses TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) levels — the main indicator of whether your thyroid is underactive or overactive.
The process usually takes under 10 minutes, and results appear in a small test window with clear markings to show whether your TSH levels are within the normal range.
These tests are designed for screening and peace of mind, not formal diagnosis, but they can quickly show whether you might benefit from seeing your GP for further testing.
How to Use an Instant Thyroid Test Kit
Most home thyroid test kits include:
A sterile lancet (to collect a tiny blood sample from your fingertip)
A test cassette (similar to a lateral flow device)
A dropper and buffer solution
Easy step-by-step instructions
Typical use:
Wash and dry your hands.
Use the lancet to prick your finger.
Collect the drop of blood using the dropper.
Add it to the test cassette with the provided buffer solution.
Wait approximately 10 minutes for the result window to display your TSH level indicator.
That’s it! There's no posting samples or waiting days for lab results.
When an Instant Test Can Help
An instant thyroid test can be especially useful if you:
Have noticed symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained weight change, low mood, or feeling unusually hot or cold.
Have a family history of thyroid conditions.
Want to monitor your thyroid between GP visits.
Prefer privacy or convenience before deciding whether to seek medical advice.
For anyone managing long-term thyroid conditions, a quick test can offer reassurance that levels remain stable.
Interpreting the Results
Normal TSH: Likely that your thyroid is functioning correctly, but if symptoms persist, still consider consulting your GP.
Abnormal TSH: Suggests possible underactive or overactive thyroid activity — it’s important to book a GP appointment to confirm the result with a full thyroid panel (TSH, T4, and T3).
Remember: These home tests indicate thyroid function but are not a diagnosis. A GP can interpret your results alongside your symptoms and medical history.
Popular Instant Thyroid Test Kits in the UK
Here are some widely available options you can find on Amazon UK and other online retailers:
SELFCheck Thyroid Health Test Kit – an easy finger-prick test giving results within 10 minutes, no lab required.
Silex Underactive Thyroid Rapid Self Test – a low-cost, quick TSH test suitable for home use.
RightSign Thyroid TSH Rapid Test Cassette – used in some pharmacies and clinics for fast screening.
(Affiliate note: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.)
When to See Your Doctor
You should always consult your GP if:
The test result indicates abnormal TSH levels.
You experience symptoms such as a swollen neck (goitre), rapid or irregular heartbeat, extreme fatigue, or sudden unexplained weight changes.
Instant thyroid tests are a convenient first step, but only your GP can confirm results and recommend treatment if needed.
Instant thyroid test kits give you control and confidence in minutes.
Whether you’re seeking reassurance or checking symptoms before booking an appointment, they’re a valuable tool for proactive health care.
It’s fast, affordable, and can help you take the first step towards better understanding your wellbeing, all from your kitchen table.
“Shop Trusted Instant Thyroid Test Kits on Amazon UK at this link":- https://amzn.to/430lROk
My test result showed that my thyroid is functioning normally, which certainly put my mind at rest.
Resident doctors in England have announced new strike dates, following what they see as the failure of the Government to offer a credible plan on jobs or pay.
The strike will run from 7am 14th November to 7am 19th November.
Dr Jack Fletcher, chair of the BMA's resident doctors committee (RDC), told That's Health: “This is not where we wanted to be.
"We have spent the last week in talks with Government, pressing the Health Secretary to end the scandal of doctors going unemployed.
We know from our own survey half of second year doctors in England are struggling to find jobs, their skills going to waste whilst millions of patients wait endlessly for treatment, and shifts in hospitals go unfilled. This is a situation which cannot go on.
“We talked with the Government in good faith – keen for the Health Secretary to see that a deal that included options to gradually reverse the cuts to pay over several years, giving newly trained doctors a pay increase of just a pound an hour for the next four years. We hoped the Government would see that our asks are not just reasonable but are in the best interests of the public and our patients and would also help stop our doctors leaving the NHS.
“Better employment prospects and restoring pay - are a credible way forward that would work for doctors, work for Government and work for our patients. The Health Secretary’s 11th hour letter to us today makes vague promises for some degree of change to jobs and training for two years hence, showing little understanding of the crisis here and now, or a real commitment to fix it.
“While we want to get a deal done, the Government seemingly, does not, leaving us with little option but to call for strike action.
“That is disappointing, but it is not irredeemable. Wes Streeting inherited an NHS falling apart through decades of underinvestment, but restoring our pay over several years, along with concrete plans to create more jobs and training place would go a long way towards the start of a new and better health service. We need the health secretary to step up, come forward with a proper offer on jobs, on pay. We need him to embrace change and make an NHS fit for doctors and fit for patients."
An innovative app, HypnoMethod™, has launched on the Apple App Store to help women ease the mental and emotional symptoms of perimenopause and menopause through clinically proven mind–body techniques, including advanced clinical hypnotherapy using guided hypnosis.
Created by Lynda Scrivener, a Harley Street-trained Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist, Nutritional Therapist and international number-one best-selling author, the app makes professional menopause mental-wellbeing support accessible to women in the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
Unlike general mindfulness or meditation apps, HypnoMethod™ is designed specifically for menopausal wellbeing. It helps ease anxiety, irritability, low mood, sleep problems and emotional overwhelm, so women can begin to feel calmer, more like themselves, and able to enjoy life again.
“HRT can ease physical symptoms, but women also need emotional support — that’s why I created HypnoMethod™” Lynda told That's Health.
Within HypnoMethod™, subscribers can access menopause-specific support in the Soul Sparkle Sanctuary™, a private monthly membership area offering:
– Guided clinical hypnotherapy sessions to ease anxiety, improve sleep and lift low mood
– Soothing relaxation audios and emotional-reset tools
– Guidance on nutrition, supplements and self-care
– Planners, trackers and a daily Mind Mood & Me check-in
– A place to unload each day’s mental struggles
– Regular new hypnotherapy tracks, resources and articles added monthly
A seven-day free trial is available, followed by an affordable monthly subscription.
“Many women enter perimenopause completely unprepared for what lies ahead, often only aware of HRT as an option to ease symptoms,” says Lynda Scrivener. “HRT can be very effective for physical symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats, but it doesn’t always address the emotional toll. HypnoMethod™ offers gentle, evidence-informed support that can be used alongside or instead of HRT.”
HypnoMethod™ featuring the Soul Sparkle Sanctuary™ is available on the Apple App Store in the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand with a 7-day free trial.
A national road safety campaign is highlighting motorists’ legal obligation to ensure their vision is roadworthy every time they get behind the wheel.
As part of the Is Your Vision Roadworthy? initiative, police forces across the UK will conduct roadside vision screening and share important information about how motorists can keep their vision clear in all light conditions during a two-week period commencing now.
Now British Summer Time has ended, and the nights are drawing in, more drivers will find themselves on the road after dark.
This is a time when motorists may begin to notice problems with their eyesight as low light levels enlarge the pupil and accentuate any focusing errors, no matter how minor they might be, resulting in blur.
Trouble focusing or being dazzled by glare from oncoming headlights when driving at night can indicate your vision is falling below the minimum eyesight standards for driving.
David Cartwight, chair of the charity Eye Health UK, explained to That's Health: “Road safety starts with clear vision. 90% of the information a driver uses is visual, yet many motorists are unaware of their legal responsibility to meet eyesight standards for driving.
"Worryingly, when we last surveyed motorists’ vision 4 in 10 drivers hadn't had a sight test in the last two years, even though that's recommended.”
The totally voluntary roadside vision screening will ask drivers to read a number plate from a distance of 20 metres.
All tests will be conducted in good daylight conditions, using a registration plate affixed to a vehicle at the correct measured distance (20m), with the driver wearing any eyesight correction (eg: spectacles) worn at the time of driving.
Under legislation known as Cassie’s Law, drivers who fail a roadside number plate test could potentially have their licence revoked on the spot if a police officer deems them to be unsafe to be on the road.
Other penalties for not meeting the legal eyesight standards include a possible fine or penalty points on your licence.
In addition to the 20m number plate test the legal eyesight standards require motorists to have visual acuity of 6/12 or above on the Snellen scale and have adequate fields of vision. The DVLA must also be notified about certain eyesight conditions.
There are different standards for bus and lorry drivers (Group 2).
Rob Heard MBE, who is founder of the Older Drivers Forum, told That's Health: “Most drivers know worn or defective tyres on their vehicle can result in a fine and penalty points, but they are less likely to realise driving with uncorrected defective eyesight is punishable with a fine of up to £1,000, three penalty points and possible disqualification and also can increase your risk of a collision occurring.”
Rob went on to say: “We want to use the roadside screening to raise awareness of the fundamental importance of good eyesight. Drivers who fail to meet the required standards are not only breaking the law but putting themselves and other road users at risk.”
Chief Constable Jo Shiner, NPCC lead for roads policing, said: “Personal responsibility is the starting point for safer roads.
“Making sure your eyesight meets the standards of vision for driving is really important and something only you can do to keep yourself and all other road users safe while driving.”
Results from the nationwide roadside vision screening activity will be released in the new year
For practical advice and information about keeping vision roadworthy as well as information about the legal eyesight standards and eye conditions that need to be notified to the DVLA / DVA visit VisionAndDriving.info
The roadside vision screening conducted by police forces take place during the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) Operation Dark Night campaign Monday 27 October to Sunday 09 November 2025.
Is Your Vision Roadworthy? is a road safety initiative run by the University of Warwick part of the Russell Group.
The Older Drivers Forum a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers to support mature motorists on how to continue driving safely for longer.
Eye Health UK (registered charity number: 1086146) the leading UK charity for prevention of poor eye health. https://www.eyecaretrust.org.uk.
3) Attached image shows Merseyside Police conducting roadside vision screening as part of the Is Your Vision Roadworthy? initiative. Please credit Merseyside Police when using this image
In a world dominated by smartphones, social media, and streaming platforms, many teens find themselves trapped in a cycle of excessive screen time.
Now, there’s an innovative solution available to help teens reclaim their time, boost their study focus, and build habits that will set them up for lifelong success.
The "Get Off Your Screen" hypnotherapy recording, now tailored specifically for teens, provides a powerful tool to break free from digital distractions and help teens thrive.
Available through the Feel Amazing hypnotherapy app by renowned British hypnotherapist Ailsa Frank, this recording is designed to gently shift teens’ mindset toward healthier screen habits.
It helps them develop stronger focus for their studies, discover fulfilling hobbies, and invest their time wisely in ways that will benefit their future success.
The new teen-focused version of "Get Off Your Screen" addresses the unique challenges teenagers face today, including the pressure to stay constantly connected online. Ailsa Frank’s proven hypnotherapy techniques guide listeners into deep relaxation, embedding messages that encourage balance between the digital and real world, creating healthy work habits, and fostering a positive mindset for academic and personal success.
What’s included in the "Get Off Your Screen" recording for teens:
- Track 1: Reduce Screen Time – Helps teens manage their screen time and reduce unnecessary use of smartphones, social media, gaming, and streaming platforms, freeing them to focus on more meaningful and productive activities.
- Track 2: Break Screen Addiction – Addresses the deeper issues of screen addiction, promoting healthier digital habits and providing teens with tools to take control of their screen use, enhance focus on studies, and build hobbies that contribute to their personal growth.
Why is this recording important for teens?
Today’s teens face unprecedented levels of digital distraction. Excessive screen time can negatively impact their academic performance, sleep, and mental health. "Get Off Your Screen" aims to provide them with an escape from screen dependency, empowering them to establish a better balance between the online world and real-life experiences.
Ailsa Frank explains to That's Health: “Teens have their entire future ahead of them. By breaking free from screen overuse now, they can develop essential habits that will not only help them succeed in their studies but also shape their work ethic and success in adulthood.
"This recording is about giving them the tools they need to find balance, focus, and enjoy life beyond their screens.”
This hypnotherapy recording works by subtly shifting the subconscious mind, helping teens feel good about spending time on productive activities such as studying, practising sports, or learning new skills. It supports the development of a strong work ethic, creating the foundation for future success in both academic and personal life.
The "Get Off Your Screen" recording for teens is now available in the Feel Amazing app, which offers a range of hypnotherapy recordings that support mental well-being, personal growth, and success.
A one year subscription for teens access cost £25 or a full subscription costs £45 and allows up to 4 family members to share. It includes over 60 titles.
Ailsa Frank is a British hypnotherapist and self-help author with nearly 2 decades of experience in transforming lives through hypnotherapy. She is known for her positive approach to changing unwanted habits, improving self-confidence, and reducing stress. Her work has been featured in The Telegraph, Daily Mail, and Marie Claire, and she is the creator of the best-selling Feel Amazing app.
The Feel Amazing app offers a simple listening experience with a playlist feature and the option to change the background music to suit your mood. Purchases are activated in-app; membership opens access to the full library.
A one-year subscription to the app costs £45 (normally £60) and includes more than 60 titles. Less than £1 a week.
Scottish charity founder Dr Cor Hutton MBE BCAc DL has shared her powerful story of survival, resilience, and purpose on the latest episode of Full Disclosure with James O’Brien, released as part of Global’s Make Some Noise campaign.
In the episode titled “The Quadruple Amputee Who Found Her Feet,” Cor speaks with honesty and humour about life following sepsis, the amputation of both her hands and legs, her double hand transplant, and how she turned tragedy into purpose through her charity Finding Your Feet.
Introducing the episode, James says, “This is going to be a bit different…” He adds, “I don’t know where to start, your life has been so extraordinary.”
Cor recalls the illness that changed everything:
“On Friday afternoon, I got myself an appointment at the doctor, he checked me thoroughly, and the next day you’re dying with sepsis. It’s just bizarre.”
When she woke from a medically induced coma, she learned she would lose her hands and feet. “There didn’t seem to be anybody who could tell me what life would be like without hands and feet… I’d have loved to have seen someone coping,” she tells James. “My family said, ‘There’s a gap – why don’t you bridge it?’ So, we did.”
Within a year, Cor founded Finding Your Feet, which has since grown into Scotland’s only charity supporting people and families affected by amputation or limb absence. Today the charity runs around 120 clubs and activities each month and supports more than 1,500 people across the country.
Reflecting on how she approached recovery and new challenges, Cor says simply, “I just kept saying yes.”
Beyond her charity work, Cor has gone on to achieve a series of truly remarkable milestones. She became the first female quadruple amputee to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, has trekked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and has been recognised with an MBE and three Honorary Doctorates for her services to charity and inspirational advocacy.
Cor says, “Helping other people stopped me thinking about me. That was like a therapy.”
As the conversation closes, James tells her, “Your life has been so extraordinary… you’ve turned personal adversity into extraordinary advocacy.”
The Full Disclosure episode offers a rare, personal look at what it means to rebuild a life - not only physically but emotionally - and shines a light on the ongoing need for awareness around sepsis and limb loss.
Full Disclosure with James O’Brien: Cor Hutton - The Quadruple Amputee Who Found Her Feet is available now on Global Player, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Finding Your Feet relies on donations to continue providing vital emotional and physical support to amputees and their families across Scotland. To support their work, visit www.findingyourfeet.net/donate-now.
Mental Health Matters, a national mental health charity, has written an open letter to the Chancellor ahead of the Autumn Budget, calling for a £30 million investment fund to embed Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) services within NHS estates.
The charity is urging the Chancellor to establish a fund to refurbish existing, unused NHS buildings, including spaces in hospitals and GP surgeries.
It's believed such an investment would create permanent spaces for voluntary and community-led services to operate on-site, alongside the NHS.
Jane Hughes, Chief Executive of Mental Health Matters, told That's Health: “There are over 800,000 square metres of unused or underutilised space within the NHS estate, which we believe is costing the taxpayer over £375 million. The charity sector is ready to deliver services utilising these spaces.
"We often hear people don’t know what support is available in their community, and that services need to be more joined up. We believe this proposal would help make services like ours more visible, accessible and better integrated with the NHS.”
The proposal seeks to reduce reliance on temporary prefab structures and make better use of underused NHS spaces, ensuring voluntary and community organisations have safe, high-quality spaces to provide prevention, early intervention and recovery support.
The plan would also see local VCFSE partners co-design facilities to meet community needs.
Sarah Wileman, Director of Development at Mental Health Matters, added: “Local communities know what works for them. By working together, we can transform empty spaces into services that are accessible, inclusive, and tailored to local needs."
Mental Health Matters say this investment would help the Government deliver on NHS England’s Community Mental Health Transformation priorities, ensure more efficient use of taxpayer money, and re-invest building rental income back into the health system.
Millions of people who are living with chronic lung conditions like COPD, asthma, and long COVID don’t just struggle with physical breathlessness, they also face emotional breathlessness.
Anxiety, fear, depression, and social isolation often go unseen and untreated, yet they have a profound impact on quality of life.
A recent nationwide survey of over 2,100 UK adults, commissioned by Dr. Devi Sundar founder of Tele-Therapies and MindBody Synergy CIC, based in Gloucestershire, reveals a striking lack of public awareness.
Only 31% of adults recognise the emotional toll of chronic respiratory disease, leaving nearly seven in ten completely unaware.
The survey reveals striking patterns: younger adults (18–24 years) and men (28%) are least aware, while older adults (55+, 36%) and women (34%) are slightly more informed. Working-age adults are the most under-informed: only 14% are “very aware,” while one in four admits being “not aware at all.”
Life experience matters too. Separated or divorced adults (38%) and widowed individuals (33%) show higher awareness, likely reflecting personal illness or caregiving experiences. Married adults (29%) and parents (33%) are moderately aware, highlighting the need for targeted education in workplaces, families, and communities.
Regional differences add another layer: awareness is highest in Wales (37%), the South West (35%), and Northern Ireland (33%), and lowest in the South East (27%) and East of England (29%). These disparities show that public health messaging and local support services are unevenly reaching those who need them the most.
Emotional breathlessness isn’t just invisible, it can worsen physical symptoms, reduce treatment adherence, and delay help-seeking.
Physical breathlessness can be treated, but anxiety, despair, and social isolation often go unnoticed. That’s why integrating mental health support into respiratory care is essential.
“Our findings show a significant gap in public perception, which can delay help-seeking and under-recognition of psychological distress in people with chronic respiratory illness,” Dr. Sundar, founder of Tele-Therapies and MindBody Synergy CIC, to That's Health.
"At Tele-Therapies and MindBody Synergy CIC, we combine psychotherapy, neuroscience, Ayurveda, and breath-based rehabilitation into trauma-informed, culturally sensitive programs. Patients who receive this integrated care cope better, recover faster, and feel less isolated. Treating mind and lungs together is not a luxury, it’s a necessity."
Immediate action is required:
1. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the emotional burden of chronic lung disease.
2. Psychological screening embedded into pulmonary rehabilitation programmes.
3. Clinician training in trauma-informed, culturally sensitive care.
4. Targeted funding for integrated mind–lung care models.
The mind and lungs are deeply connected through breath and the nervous system. Ignoring emotional suffering is no longer acceptable. Greater awareness, integrated care, and targeted funding could change the lives of millions across the UK.
Every breath matters, it’s time our health system treats patients holistically, not just physically.
Support ther public awareness campaign“ Integrate Mental and Physical Health Care for COPD Patients in Gloucestershire” https://www.change.org/MentalHealthCOPD
Qognition, a new British wellness brand focused on sustainable, high-quality cognitive performance support, is proud to announce its official launch in the UK market.
Addressing the demands of modern life, Qognition offers carefully curated stacks of natural nootropics and supplements boosted with vitamins & minerals, designed to foster mental fitness and overall holistic wellness.
While the pursuit of peak performance is ambitious, Qognition’s approach is grounded in responsibility and quality. The brand’s initial portfolio offers targeted, science-backed formulas, selected for their efficacy in promoting sustained focus, clarity, and energy.
"The UK market is ready for a more sophisticated, transparent, and humble approach to cognitive support," Ben Hudson, Managing Director & Founder of Qognition told That's Health.
"We don't claim to reinvent the wheel, but we promise to deliver a thoughtful selection of the best ingredients available. Our goal is simple: to provide people facing the hectic lifestyle of today, with the tools they need to stay effective and focused tomorrow. Always responsibly, and always sustainably.
We believe true achievement is built on a foundation of both mental fitness and physical health."
Commitment to Quality, The UK, and Sustainability
A core pillar of the Qognition brand is its commitment to responsible operations:
UK Made: All Qognition products are manufactured within the UK, ensuring adherence to rigorous quality standards and minimising logistical footprints.
Sustainable Sourcing: The brand maintains a clear focus on sourcing, production, and fulfilment in a sustainable way, acknowledging the responsibility all modern businesses have to the planet.
Qognition’s product philosophy centres on synergy. The supplement stacks are expertly formulated not just to boost immediate mental focus, but to equally support the underlying systems that govern overall brain health and bodily function.
Initial Product Focus
The inaugural line-up, of six supplements, is built around achieving synergistic cognitive ability and lasting well-being. Here are the details of three flagship supplements. Please visit them at www.qognition.life to learn more.
Qognition Clarity: an advanced adaptogenic blend of Shilajit, Ashwagandha, and Rhodiola with essential Vitamins B6, D3, and Zinc. These nutrients support normal cognitive and psychological function, reduce tiredness and fatigue, and contribute to energy metabolism and cellular protection.
Qognition Ignite: a comprehensive mix of ingredients, including, Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (β-NMN) and Vitamin B12, which contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, normal energy-yielding metabolism and psychological function. With Sepismart SR technology.
Qognition Nourish: An advanced blend of 30 bacterial strains, with a precision prebiotic, in an acid-resistant capsule for maximum delivery to the intestine. Offering profound benefits to health and wellbeing. 22.5 billion CFU.
Exclusive Launch Offer: Elevate Your Focus
Think sharper. Live smarter. Start your journey with Qognition today.
To celebrate its UK debut and encourage early adoption, Qognition is offering an exclusive discount for a limited time.
Customers can receive 30% off their first order using the code LAUNCH30 at checkout. This special introductory offer is valid only for orders placed before the end of October.
"We want to make it easy for ambitious individuals to try a smarter approach to their well-being," the CEO adds. "This offer is our way of inviting the UK to experience the Qognition difference—a focus on sustained, clear-minded performance."
Qognition products are available starting today exclusively via the brand’s UK-focused website at qognition.life.
FACTFILE:
Qognition is a premium UK-based wellness brand providing healthy, natural, and sustainable supplements designed to elevate mental fitness and support holistic wellness. Built on the core values of Clarity, Quality, Sustainability, and Cognition, Qognition is dedicated to helping ambitious individuals maintain effectiveness for long periods through a responsible and science-backed approach. Think Sharper. Live Smarter.
As the days grow shorter and sunlight becomes scarce, many people find their mood taking a downturn.
While it’s normal to feel a little low during the darker months, some individuals experience a more severe condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), sometimes called the winter blues.
For those living with depression or other mental health conditions, SAD can be a dangerous trigger, and research suggests it may contribute to fluctuations in suicide rates during the colder months.
Understanding SAD
SAD is a type of depression that typically occurs during autumn and winter, when natural daylight hours are reduced. Symptoms can include:
Persistent low mood and lack of energy
Sleep problems (either too much or too little)
Loss of interest in everyday activities
Feelings of hopelessness or guilt
Changes in appetite and weight
The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to be linked to reduced sunlight exposure, which affects serotonin (a mood-regulating neurotransmitter) and melatonin (a hormone that controls sleep patterns). Low levels of both can contribute to feelings of depression, lethargy, and disrupted sleep.
SAD and Suicide Risk
While SAD itself doesn’t cause suicide, it can intensify underlying mental health problems. Studies in the UK and other northern countries show that suicide rates often fluctuate seasonally, with some evidence suggesting increased risk during the late winter and early spring months.
This may seem surprising — why spring? Mental health experts suggest that people who have struggled through the dark winter months may suddenly have more energy as daylight increases, which can tragically increase the risk of acting on suicidal thoughts before full recovery takes hold.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Anyone can develop SAD, but certain groups are more vulnerable:
Those with a history of depression or bipolar disorder
People living far north where winter daylight is limited
Individuals who spend little time outdoors
Those with vitamin D deficiency
People experiencing loneliness or social isolation
The COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis have both contributed to increased isolation and financial anxiety, heightening vulnerability for many.
Recognising the Signs
If you or someone you know is withdrawing socially, losing interest in favourite activities, expressing hopelessness, or speaking about death or suicide — these may be warning signs that should never be ignored. Early intervention saves lives.
Ways to Cope and Find Help
There are several effective treatments and strategies for managing SAD:
Light therapy – using a special SAD lamp to mimic natural daylight
Vitamin D supplements – particularly during the winter months
Exercise – even gentle outdoor activity can improve mood and serotonin levels
Talking therapies – such as CBT or counselling
Medication – antidepressants may be prescribed if symptoms are severe
Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference, too — spending time outdoors during daylight hours, opening blinds early, and maintaining social contact can all help.
Getting Support
If you’re struggling, you are not alone — and help is always available. In the UK, you can contact:
Samaritans – 116 123 (24/7, free)
Mind – 0300 123 3393
Shout – text 85258 for 24/7 crisis support
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – 0800 58 58 58 (for men)
NHS 111 – for urgent mental health help
Reaching out is the bravest step you can take. Whether it’s winter or summer, your life has immense value — and there are people ready to listen and help you through.
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is best known for causing joint pain, stiffness and fatigue, but some people living with it also experience heavy sweating.
While sweating isn’t one of the usual textbook symptoms, there are several plausible reasons why it can happen.
Below, we explore the possible causes and offer guidance, followed by helpful UK resources for further support.
Why Heavy Sweating Might Occur with PsA
Inflammation & Elevated Body Temperature
Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition, meaning your immune system may attack healthy tissue. During flare-ups, the body releases inflammatory mediators (e.g. cytokines) that can raise your internal temperature. This increase can contribute to excessive sweating, even when you’re not exerting yourself.
Pain, Discomfort & Stress Response
Persistent pain or discomfort can trigger the body’s sympathetic (fight-or-flight) system, which may lead to sweating. Anxiety and stress around flare-ups, mobility and daily functioning can amplify this effect.
Side Effects from Medications
Some medications used in managing PsA may cause hot flushes, night sweats or increased sweating as side effects. Examples include:
Corticosteroids (steroids)
Some biologic therapies
Occasional reactions to NSAIDs or pain medications
If the sweating began shortly after starting a new medication, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare team.
Night Sweats & Low-Grade Fever
Active PsA sometimes involves low-grade systemic inflammation, which can trigger night sweats or mild fevers. These effects are more likely when inflammation is more widespread or when the immune system is battling an infection (especially in people on immunosuppressive treatment).
Coexisting Conditions
Because autoimmune diseases can cluster, someone with PsA may also develop thyroid disorders (e.g. hyperthyroidism) or other conditions that independently lead to excess sweating, heat intolerance or metabolic changes. It’s always wise to explore whether other causes are at play.
When to Seek Medical Advice
You should talk to your GP or rheumatologist if:
Heavy sweating is new or getting worse
It comes with fever, chills, weight loss or other unexplained symptoms
It disrupts your sleep, comfort or daily life
It began after starting or changing a treatment
Your healthcare team may assess for infections, check your thyroid function, or adjust medications as needed.
Tips to Stay Comfortable
While you and your clinician explore possible causes, these practical tips may help:
Versus Arthritis/Arthritis UKComprehensive information, downloadable booklets, helpline support, guidance on living with arthritis https://www.arthritis-uk.org
Helpline: 0800 5200 520
The Psoriasis Association Support for people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis; helpline; information leaflets; video resources psoriasis-association.org.uk
01604 251 620
PAPAA (Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance) Patient-centred support, treatment guides, symptom checkers, advocacy in the UK papaa.org
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