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STAND's "Legs on Tour" Aims to Restore Mobility and Hope Across Africa

Prosthetists in Ghana working on STAND limbs

A remarkable UK charity is preparing to embark on an ambitious nationwide mission that could transform the lives of thousands of amputees across sub-Saharan Africa.

STAND has announced its "Legs on Tour 2026" appeal, which will see its team travel across the UK from 3-6 August collecting unwanted prosthetic leg components from prosthetic centres. 

Rather than allowing these high-quality components to be discarded, they will be refurbished and shipped to clinics across sub-Saharan Africa, where they will be fitted to people who would otherwise have little or no chance of receiving a prosthetic limb.

The charity highlights a stark global imbalance. While many prosthetic legs in countries such as the UK are retired after use despite remaining in excellent condition, millions of amputees in low-income African nations have no access to prosthetic care at all. 

It's estimated up to 95% of amputees in these countries are unable to obtain a prosthetic limb, leaving many unable to work, attend school or fully participate in everyday life.

For those affected, the consequences extend far beyond mobility. The inability to walk often limits education, employment and independence, trapping individuals and families in a cycle of poverty. By giving someone the opportunity to walk again, organisations like STAND can also help restore confidence, dignity and economic opportunity.

RTA survivor Catherine from Ghana

To ensure the tour reaches as many collection points as possible, STAND is aiming to raise £20,000. The first £2,000 donated will be matched pound for pound by leading prosthetics manufacturer Blatchford, effectively doubling the value of early contributions. The funds will help cover the costs of collecting, refurbishing and transporting prosthetic components, as well as providing rehabilitation support to amputees receiving their new limbs.

Since being founded 12 years ago, STAND has already helped thousands of people regain their mobility across sub-Saharan Africa through the provision of prosthetic legs and rehabilitation services. Earlier this year, the charity strengthened its international impact through a partnership with French NGO Nav'Solidaire to expand the refurbishment and delivery of donated prosthetic legs throughout Africa.

Paralympic gold medallist Richard Whitehead MBE has thrown his support behind the appeal, describing mobility as something that transforms confidence, independence and opportunity. His endorsement underlines the life-changing difference that access to a prosthetic limb can make.

If you, a family member or someone you know has an unused prosthetic leg component, or if you would simply like to support the appeal financially, further information about donating equipment or making a contribution can be found at STAND's Legs on Tour 2026 appeal.

Sometimes, giving someone the chance to stand really does help them take the next step towards a brighter future.

https://www.stand.ngo

World Lung Cancer Day 2026: Together Through Lung Cancer

World Lung Cancer Day, taking place on Saturday 1 August 2026, is an opportunity to raise awareness of one of the world's most serious cancers while reminding those affected that they do not have to face the disease alone.

This year's campaign from Know Lung Cancer carries the powerful message "Together through Lung Cancer", highlighting the importance of education, support and community for patients, families and carers.

While advances in diagnosis and treatment continue to improve outcomes for many people, lung cancer can still have a profound physical, emotional and psychological impact. Recovery and long-term management often involve much more than medical treatment, making access to reliable information and supportive communities incredibly valuable.

Know Lung Cancer is encouraging people to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with the disease. As part of this year's campaign, the organisation has expanded the support available through its website by introducing a dedicated Support Groups section, linking patients and carers with trusted organisations and peer communities.

The campaign also includes a WhatsApp support group led by Know Lung Cancer patient ambassadors. The group offers a welcoming space where people can share experiences, ask questions and gain reassurance from others who truly understand the realities of a lung cancer diagnosis.

Supporters are also being invited to take part in a simple awareness campaign on World Lung Cancer Day itself. People can download or order a Know Lung Cancer poster, take a photograph with it and share the image on social media using the official hashtags #WorldLungCancerDay and #LungCancerAwareness. The aim is to increase awareness while demonstrating the strength of the lung cancer community.

To help patients discover trusted information at key moments in their treatment journey, Know Lung Cancer is also distributing posters and information cards to lung cancer clinics, oncology centres, hospitals and professional societies. These materials direct patients and carers to educational resources covering lung cancer, treatment options, patient stories and ongoing support.

Know Lung Cancer was established in collaboration with CancerCare and brings together an international network of patient advocates, healthcare professionals and ambassadors. Its mission is to improve understanding of lung cancer worldwide by providing independent, evidence-based educational resources that are freely available to everyone.

Campaign organisers hope this year's World Lung Cancer Day will encourage more conversations about lung cancer, reduce feelings of isolation and ensure that patients and their loved ones know where to turn for trusted advice and practical support.

For more information about World Lung Cancer Day and the resources available, visit the Know Lung Cancer website https://know-lungcancer.com

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When the Pavement Becomes the Barrier: Britain's Broken Footpaths Are Failing Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter Users

For many people, a cracked pavement is nothing more than a minor annoyance. 

For someone using a wheelchair or mobility scooter, it can become an impassable obstacle, a safety hazard or even the reason they decide not to leave home at all.

After recently filming one of my YouTube journeys on a path used mobility scooter users, I was reminded yet again just how difficult getting around can be when pavements, roads and shared footpaths are poorly maintained. 

The experience highlighted a problem that affects millions of disabled people, older people and anyone with limited mobility, yet one that often goes unnoticed by those who walk these routes every day.

The law and the Highway Code expect wheelchair and mobility scooter users to travel on pavements wherever possible because they are generally safer than the road. Users are expected to travel considerately, keep speeds low and make use of dropped kerbs when crossing roads.

Unfortunately, that guidance assumes the pavement is actually usable.

In reality, many pavements resemble obstacle courses. Uneven slabs, deep potholes, broken tarmac, raised tree roots and steep cambers can make progress slow, uncomfortable and, in some cases, dangerous. 

A sudden jolt from hitting a broken surface can throw a wheelchair user forward or destabilise a mobility scooter, particularly for someone already coping with pain, balance issues or limited upper body strength.

Then there are the missing or poorly designed dropped kerbs. Having to travel hundreds of metres simply to find a safe place to cross a road is frustrating enough. Being forced onto the carriageway because there is no accessible route is something no disabled person should have to face.

Charity Scope also highlights broken pavements, potholes, blocked footways and vehicles obstructing dropped kerbs as everyday barriers that wheelchair users regularly encounter.

The impact goes beyond physical safety. Poor accessibility affects independence, confidence and mental wellbeing. Many wheelchair and scooter users carefully plan journeys in advance, avoiding certain streets entirely because they know the surfaces are too rough or hazardous. Some simply decide the journey is not worth the risk.

This becomes an equality issue. Accessible transport isn't just about buses with ramps or trains with step-free access. The humble pavement is arguably the most important part of the accessible transport network, yet it is often the most neglected.

Local authorities understandably face enormous financial pressures, but maintaining pavements should be viewed as essential infrastructure rather than cosmetic improvement. Every repaired paving slab, resurfaced footpath and properly installed dropped kerb gives someone greater freedom to work, shop, visit friends or simply enjoy being outdoors.

When councils prioritise accessible streets, everyone benefits. Parents pushing prams, people using walking frames, cyclists on shared paths, delivery workers and pedestrians all enjoy smoother, safer routes.

My YouTube video demonstrates these challenges from the perspective of someone using a mobility scooter. It offers a glimpse into obstacles that many disabled people face every single day but which able-bodied pedestrians may never notice.

Perhaps the next time we hear debates about potholes, we should remember that the discussion isn't just about protecting cars. It is also about protecting people's independence, dignity and right to move around their own communities safely.

Wild Swimming: Why the Risks Are Greater Than Many People Realise

Wild swimming has become one of the UK's fastest-growing outdoor activities. 

Social media is filled with stunning photographs of people swimming in crystal-clear lakes, secluded rivers and dramatic coastal coves, often accompanied by claims of improved mental health and a closer connection with nature.

While many people enjoy wild swimming safely, it is important to remember that natural bodies of water can present serious hazards that are very different from those found in supervised swimming pools. Before taking the plunge, it is worth understanding the potential dangers to both your physical safety and your health.

Hidden physical dangers

One of the biggest risks is that you never truly know what lies beneath the surface. Rivers and lakes can contain submerged branches, rocks, discarded shopping trolleys, fishing equipment, broken glass and other debris capable of causing serious injuries.

Water depth can also be deceptive. A seemingly calm stretch of river may become unexpectedly deep just a few metres from the bank, while hidden drop-offs can catch swimmers by surprise.

Strong currents are another major concern. Rivers may appear gentle on the surface while concealing powerful underwater currents that can quickly overwhelm even experienced swimmers. Coastal swimming brings additional hazards, including rip currents, tides and changing weather conditions that can rapidly turn a pleasant swim into an emergency.

Cold water shock is perhaps the greatest immediate danger. Even during summer, many UK lakes and rivers remain surprisingly cold. Entering cold water suddenly can trigger an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing, increased heart rate and loss of muscle control. In some cases, this can lead to drowning within minutes.

Infection risks

Natural water is rarely sterile. It can contain bacteria, viruses and parasites originating from wildlife, livestock, sewage overflows and agricultural run-off.

One of the best-known risks is Leptospirosis, also known as Weil's disease. This bacterial infection is spread through the urine of infected animals, particularly rats, and can enter the body through cuts, grazes or the eyes, nose or mouth. Early symptoms resemble flu but severe cases can damage the liver and kidneys.

Swimmers may also be exposed to bacteria such as E. coli following sewage discharges or heavy rainfall. While many strains are harmless, others can cause severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting.

Natural waters can also contain parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, both of which can lead to prolonged gastrointestinal illness. Swallowing even a small amount of contaminated water may be enough to cause infection.

Blue-green algae, which can develop during warm weather, pose another serious concern. Despite the name, these are actually cyanobacteria capable of producing toxins that can cause skin irritation, sickness, diarrhoea and, in severe cases, liver damage. Water affected by algal blooms may appear green, blue-green or resemble pea soup, but blooms are not always obvious.

Cuts and wounds

Even minor cuts received while swimming can become infected. Bacteria naturally present in freshwater or seawater may enter broken skin, leading to painful infections that require medical treatment. Anyone with open wounds should think carefully before entering untreated water.

Who should take extra care?

Wild swimming may be particularly risky for:

Young children

Older adults

Pregnant women

People with weakened immune systems

Anyone with heart or lung conditions

People with epilepsy or other medical conditions that could affect their safety in water

Reducing the risks

If you do decide to go wild swimming, never swim alone. Choose recognised swimming locations where water quality is monitored where possible, avoid entering the water after heavy rainfall or known sewage discharges, check for local warnings about blue-green algae, enter the water gradually to reduce the effects of cold water shock, and avoid swallowing the water. 

Shower thoroughly afterwards and seek medical advice if you develop flu-like symptoms, persistent diarrhoea or unusual skin rashes following a swim.

A balanced view

There is no doubt that many people enjoy wild swimming without incident, and some report feeling calmer and more energised afterwards. However, the potential risks should never be underestimated. Natural waters are unpredictable environments where hidden hazards, cold temperatures and harmful microorganisms can combine to create life-threatening situations.

For many people, a supervised swimming pool offers a far safer way to enjoy the physical and mental benefits of swimming without exposing themselves to the additional dangers that rivers, lakes and the sea can present.

Ultimately, if you choose to swim in the wild, make sure your decision is based on a clear understanding of the risks rather than the picture-perfect images that often appear on social media.

Londoner cycles Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way to honour sister lost to brain tumour

Sarah De Groen knows exactly why she is taking on one of Europe's toughest cycling routes. Every mile she pedals along Ireland's spectacular Wild Atlantic Way is a tribute to her younger sister Rachel, whose life was cut tragically short by an aggressive brain tumour.

The 39-year-old from Edgware set off on 20 July with an ambitious goal of cycling the entire 1,600-mile Wild Atlantic Way in just 20 days. 

Along the way, she hopes to raise vital funds for The Brain Tumour Charity, which supports families affected by brain tumours, funds pioneering research and campaigns for better treatment and care.

Sarah's determination comes from a deeply personal place.

Rachel De Groen was just 19 when she was diagnosed with what was later identified as a diffuse midline glioma, an aggressive and incurable brain tumour. Doctors initially gave her only three months to live, but Rachel defied expectations and survived for another 15 months.

Those extra months became precious time for the entire family.

Rachel, the youngest of seven siblings, was known for her gentle nature and her love of children, art, fashion, butterflies and the colour pink. Her nieces and nephews adored spending time with her because she would happily sit on the floor playing games with them for hours.

One of the most striking aspects of Rachel's illness was how subtly it began. Rather than headaches or balance problems, the earliest warning signs were changes in her personality. She gradually withdrew from family, struggled with her mental health and became increasingly unwell before doctors finally discovered the tumour.

The diagnosis devastated the family, but instead of allowing despair to take over, they resolved to make every remaining day count. Birthdays became treasured occasions, family outings were organised whenever Rachel felt well enough, and even her brother brought forward his wedding so she could be there.

Sarah told That's Health that experience completely changed how she viewed life.

She explains that when someone you love is dying, everyday worries suddenly become insignificant. It taught her to value every moment and inspired her to take on endurance challenges in Rachel's memory.

Having previously completed the famous Land's End to John O'Groats cycle ride, Sarah is now tackling the even greater elevation and distance of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. She hopes to complete the challenge on 12 August, marking the anniversary of Rachel's diagnosis.

As well as remembering her sister, Sarah hopes her journey will raise awareness of brain tumours and the urgent need for more research into better treatments.

Her message is both simple and powerful: life is precious, every day is a gift, and by supporting research today, more families may be spared the heartbreak that hers experienced.

Anyone wishing to support Sarah's remarkable fundraising challenge can donate through her JustGiving page and follow her story as she cycles around one of Europe's most dramatic coastlines.

https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org

https://www.justgiving.com/page/sarah-de-groen-2

Free Family Peace Retreat Offers a Screen-Free Day of Wellbeing in Widnes

Families looking for a chance to slow down, reconnect and enjoy some quality time together this summer will have the perfect opportunity at a special free event taking place in Widnes.

On Sunday 2nd August, Fortuna Female Society and the Brianna Ghey Legacy Project are joining forces to host a Family Peace Retreat at St Marie's Church. 

Open to everyone, whether attending alone, with friends or as a family, the day has been designed to encourage people to switch off from the pressures of everyday life and spend time focusing on their wellbeing.

The event comes at an ideal point in the school summer holidays, when many parents are juggling childcare and children often find themselves spending more time than usual glued to their phones or tablets. Instead of another day spent in front of a screen, the retreat offers a welcoming space where families can relax, learn new wellbeing techniques and enjoy meaningful time together.

The Peace Retreat builds on an existing partnership between the two organisations. Earlier this year, the Brianna Ghey Legacy Project successfully piloted its Flourishing Families programme with Fortuna Female Society's Let Her Shine group, supporting local mums, female carers and their daughters over six sessions. This latest event expands that approach, opening it up to the wider Halton community.

Throughout the day, adults and teenagers can take part in a range of wellbeing sessions held inside a large tipi. Activities include yoga, tai chi, breathwork, meditation and sound baths, all led by experienced local practitioners.

Families haven't been forgotten either. There will be dedicated children's yoga and tai chi sessions alongside Flourishing Families activities, before the day concludes with a relaxing family sound bath that everyone can enjoy together.

Visitors can also take advantage of complimentary taster treatments, including reflexology, Indian head massage and hand massages. 

All activities operate on a first come, first served basis, while food and refreshments will be available to purchase throughout the day. With all activities taking place under cover, the retreat will go ahead whatever the weather.

Laura Bevan, Founder of Fortuna Female Society, told That's Health that the partnership felt like a natural fit, with both organisations sharing a passion for improving wellbeing and strengthening community connections.

Esther Ghey, Founder of the Brianna Ghey Legacy Project, said she was proud to be collaborating on the project's first-ever Peace Retreat and looked forward to welcoming families for a day dedicated to wellness and relaxation.

Admission is free, but advance booking is essential, making this a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy a calm, restorative day together during the summer holidays.

https://fortunafemale.org

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/peace-retreat-2026-tickets-1992410525516

Hundreds take on Race the Light to support the Chilterns Neuro Centre

An evening of fresh air, exercise and community spirit helped raise well over £3,000 for the Chilterns Neuro Centre as hundreds of runners, walkers and families took part in this year's Race the Light at the stunning Wendover Woods.

Organised by Runaway Racing in partnership with the Chilterns Neuro Centre, the popular event proved that fundraising is about far more than crossing the finish line. 

It brought together people of all ages and abilities to support local people living with multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease and the effects of stroke, while encouraging everyone to enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of spending time outdoors.

Participants were able to choose from three routes designed to suit a wide range of abilities. Experienced trail runners tackled either a demanding 10k or an equally challenging 5k woodland course, while a 1.5k accessible route welcomed wheelchair users, people with mobility challenges and young families, ensuring that everyone had the opportunity to be part of the occasion.

As daylight faded and the woodland took on a magical evening atmosphere, competitors made their way through the forest, encouraged every step of the way by enthusiastic volunteers and supporters. The result was a celebration of fitness, inclusion and community that perfectly reflected the event's purpose.

Among the standout performances were James Davis, who claimed the men's 10k title in an impressive 36 minutes and 18 seconds, while Jessica Carini won the women's 10k in 51 minutes and 34 seconds. Lauren Mayot crossed the line first in the women's 5k in 26 minutes and 26 seconds, with Vincent Mayot taking the men's 5k title in 27 minutes and 55 seconds.

Chris Bradley, Director of Runaway Racing, said the event was about much more than race times, highlighting the importance of bringing people together, enjoying the outdoors and supporting a charity that makes a real difference to local lives.

Kirsty Robson, Community Fundraiser at the Chilterns Neuro Centre, thanked everyone who took part, praising the fantastic atmosphere and the generosity shown by participants, volunteers and supporters throughout the evening.

The event was supported by headline sponsor AngloDutch Accountants, with Managing Partner Ross Bugden saying the company was proud to back both Race the Light and the vital work carried out by the Chilterns Neuro Centre.

Fundraising events such as Race the Light play an important role in helping charities continue to provide specialist services, therapies and support for people living with neurological conditions. At the same time, they remind us that being active, spending time in nature and sharing experiences with others can have enormous benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing.

With another successful Race the Light completed, organisers are already looking ahead to inspiring even more people to lace up their trainers and make a difference next time.

chilternsneurocentre.org

Grünenthal joins German research network to advance next-generation pain therapies

Grünenthal has joined Germany's CNATM innovation network to accelerate research into gene-targeting treatments for chronic pain, epilepsy and neurological diseases.

New collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and research organisations are helping to speed up the search for better treatments for some of the world's most challenging health conditions.

One of the latest partnerships could help advance innovative therapies for people living with chronic pain and a range of neurological disorders.

Grünenthal, a global pharmaceutical company specialising in pain management, has announced that it has joined the Cluster for Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Munich (CNATM), an innovation network bringing together leading universities, research institutes, biotechnology companies and industry partners across Germany.

The collaboration aims to accelerate the development of next-generation nucleic acid medicines – an exciting area of medical research that has the potential to transform how certain diseases are treated.

Unlike many conventional medicines, nucleic acid therapeutics work by targeting the genetic instructions inside cells. Two of the most promising approaches are antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering RNA (siRNA). These therapies are designed to influence how genes are expressed, potentially preventing harmful proteins from being produced or helping restore normal cellular function.

Over recent years, Grünenthal has invested heavily in developing expertise in these technologies, particularly for conditions involving chronic pain and diseases affecting the nervous system.

By joining CNATM, the company hopes to improve its understanding of how these therapies can be designed and delivered more effectively, especially to nerve cells involved in pain, epilepsy and neurodegenerative conditions.

Dr Uli Brödl, Chief Scientific Officer at Grünenthal, told That's Health that the partnership would connect cutting-edge academic science with a strong focus on improving outcomes for patients.

He explained that joining the network would allow Grünenthal's scientists to work alongside leading experts who share the ambition of tackling unmet medical needs through innovation.

The CNATM network includes researchers from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, the Technical University of Munich, the Universities of Regensburg and Würzburg, the Helmholtz Centre Munich, alongside 14 biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies working in genetic medicine.

The cluster forms part of Germany's national Clusters4Future programme and receives funding from the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space. Its goal is to turn promising discoveries in nucleic acid science into practical treatments that could eventually benefit patients around the world.

While these therapies are still under development, collaborations such as this highlight the growing momentum behind genetic medicine. For people living with chronic pain, epilepsy and neurodegenerative diseases, continued investment in research offers hope that tomorrow's treatments could be more precise, more effective and capable of targeting disease in entirely new ways.

http://www.grunenthal.com

AMRADNET Brings a Broader Approach to Radiology Support for the NHS

The pressure on NHS diagnostic services continues to grow, with many hospitals working hard to reduce waiting lists and deliver scan results more quickly. 

While teleradiology has helped ease some of that burden, one healthcare provider believes the NHS now needs a more comprehensive approach to diagnostic capacity.

AMRADNET has officially launched in the UK, offering a radiology service designed to support NHS Trusts beyond traditional remote reporting. Rather than focusing solely on interpreting scans, the company aims to work alongside hospitals to improve the entire diagnostic pathway, helping patients move from scan to diagnosis as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The organisation brings more than 22 years of radiology experience from the United States and international healthcare markets. During that time, it has supported hospitals, imaging centres, urgent care facilities, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation units and other specialist healthcare settings, completing millions of diagnostic studies across a wide range of imaging modalities.

Now expanding its presence in the UK, AMRADNET combines this international experience with a growing team of UK-based radiologists who have extensive NHS expertise. The goal is to provide flexible diagnostic support that helps hospitals improve reporting turnaround times, reduce pressure on overstretched radiology departments and ultimately improve patient care.

The company's services extend well beyond standard teleradiology reporting. They include diagnostic scanning support, interventional radiology assistance and partnerships with Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs), which have become an increasingly important part of the NHS strategy to provide earlier diagnosis and reduce pressure on acute hospitals.

AMRADNET says it continues to invest heavily in its workforce, clinical governance, technology platforms and operational processes to improve efficiency while maintaining high clinical standards. Every report is delivered within a radiologist-led governance framework designed to ensure patient safety, accuracy and accountability.

Timely reporting is not simply about reducing waiting times. Faster access to diagnostic information allows clinicians to make earlier treatment decisions, improves patient flow through hospitals and can reduce anxiety for patients awaiting important test results.

Jon Priddle, UK Managing Director of AMRADNET UK, told That's Health: "Our aim is to deliver timely radiology expertise that strengthens NHS care and supports better outcomes for patients. Combining the vast experience we have both in the UK and globally, we believe we can make a real difference to the NHS and to patients."

As demand for diagnostic imaging continues to rise across the NHS, partnerships that strengthen capacity while maintaining quality could play an increasingly important role in helping patients receive faster diagnoses and earlier access to treatment.

www.amradnet.co.uk

Celebrating 50 Years of Play: Why Childhood Still Thrives Beyond the Screen

Half a century ago, childhood was filled with climbing trees, building dens, making up games and spending hours outdoors with friends. 

While today's children are growing up in a far more digital world, one thing hasn't changed, their need to play, explore and connect with others.

As Gymboree Play & Music celebrates its 50th anniversary, families across the UK are proving that learning through play remains every bit as valuable today as it was five decades ago.

With increasing concern about children's screen time and studies suggesting parents are spending less time playing with their young children, many families are rediscovering the joy of setting aside dedicated time to laugh, move and learn together.

Across the country, Gymboree Play & Music has become much more than a weekly activity. For many, it has become part of their family's story, creating memories that span generations.

In Hampstead, Zakiyah now takes her 11-month-old son, Hadid, to the very same Gymboree Play & Music centre where she attended classes as a child while her mother taught there. She fondly remembers birthday celebrations, name stickers and the excitement of every session, and is delighted that her son can now experience those same moments of discovery and fun.

Families like Emma and Chris Penn from Solihull have brought all four of their children to classes over more than a decade. They say the sessions have provided invaluable opportunities to spend quality time together while helping each child develop confidence, curiosity and creativity.

The tradition even extends across generations. Jane Goldstein first attended Gymboree Play & Music with her twins and now enjoys watching her grandson Robin experience the same sense of adventure and learning. For her, seeing a new generation benefit from play is both heart-warming and reassuring.

Long-time nanny Melanie Wenham has introduced countless children to Gymboree Play & Music over more than twenty years. She believes the welcoming atmosphere, caring instructors and focus on child development have remained wonderfully consistent, with many of the children she once accompanied still remembering their "Gymbo days" well into adulthood.

These stories offer an uplifting reminder that while technology has transformed modern childhood, the foundations of healthy development remain remarkably familiar. Children still flourish when they can move, imagine, solve problems, build friendships and share joyful experiences with the important adults in their lives.

As Gymboree Play & Music marks its golden anniversary with celebrations across the UK featuring its much-loved mascot Gymbo, the message is clear: screens may have become part of everyday life, but play continues to be one of childhood's greatest gifts.

Fifty years on, the power of play is still helping children grow into confident, curious and happy young people, and that's something well worth celebrating.

https://gymbo.co.uk

Harry Kane and Sporting Heroes Inspire a New Generation to Get Moving

Families are gathering around televisions, children are recreating famous goals in parks and playgrounds, and conversations about football are bringing people of all ages together. 

But beyond the excitement of the tournament lies something even more important, the power of sport to inspire healthier, happier lives.

New research commissioned by the Youth Sport Trust has revealed which British sporting heroes parents believe have the greatest influence on encouraging children to be active. The findings highlight the enormous impact role models can have in motivating young people to embrace exercise, develop confidence and build healthy habits that can last a lifetime.

Football continues to dominate as the sport that captures young imaginations. Parents named David Beckham, Marcus Rashford, Sir Mo Farah, Harry Kane and Anthony Joshua as the five male athletes who most inspire children. Among female sporting icons, Chloe Kelly, Leah Williamson, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Keely Hodgkinson and Lucy Bronze topped the list.

England stars including Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice also featured prominently, reflecting the influence today's players have both on and off the pitch.

The survey comes as National School Sports Week, powered by Sports Direct and Everlast, celebrates the many ways sport can transform lives. More than 2,600 schools across the UK have taken part, encouraging children to enjoy physical activity while highlighting the benefits that extend far beyond fitness.

Sport helps young people develop resilience, teamwork, communication skills and self-belief. It creates friendships, strengthens communities and provides a sense of belonging that is especially valuable in today's increasingly digital world.

Youth Sport Trust CEO Ali Oliver MBE believes this summer presents a unique opportunity to encourage every child to become active. She told That's Health: "watching elite athletes perform on the biggest stages can spark a belief that anything is possible, while everyday opportunities to play with friends remain just as important in helping children discover the joy of movement."

National School Sports Week champion Sir Mo Farah echoed that message, saying sport gave him confidence, determination and the belief that he could achieve more than he ever imagined. He hopes every child can experience those same benefits through sport and physical activity.

The UK Chief Medical Officers recommend that children and young people take part in at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Whether inspired by Harry Kane scoring for England, Chloe Kelly celebrating a goal, or simply enjoying a game with friends after school, every kick of a football, every run around the playground and every sporting challenge helps build stronger bodies, healthier minds and brighter futures.

This remarkable summer of sport reminds us that inspiration doesn't only come from lifting trophies. Sometimes it begins with one child watching a sporting hero and believing, "I could do that too."

https://www.youthsporttrust.org

Declan Rice's Illness Highlights the Importance of Rest After Viral Infections

Declan Rice's determination has reignited discussion about post-viral illness, M.E. and why adequate rest during recovery could help prevent long-term health complications.

England midfielder Declan Rice, still recovering from a virus, played 45 minutes in 33+ degree heat during the Quarter Final match against Norway on Saturday night. 

Fans noted he was clearly struggling and wished him well on social media. 

His commitment was widely praised, but for people living with post-viral illness and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E.), the moment was deeply concerning.

When a national figure pushes through illness in extreme conditions, it reinforces a powerful cultural message: that exertion during or after viral infection is harmless, even admirable. For many people, it is not. For some, it leads to lifelong disability.

This moment exposes a critical failure in UK public health communication, specifically the Chief Medical Officer’s physical activity guidance, published on Friday, which encourages staying active but does not include clear caveats about post-viral instability, risk, or Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM). Without these caveats, the public is left with dangerously incomplete advice.

One of the most damaging myths surrounding M.E. is that it affects only certain types of people. In reality, M.E. can strike anyone:

children and adults

men and women

people of every racial and ethnic background

elite athletes and people with sedentary lifestyles alike

Sally Callow, (PICTURED) Founder of social enterprise ME Foggy Dog, told THat's Health: “Viruses don’t care who you are, what you do for a living, or how fit you might be. You’re not being tough by fighting back against an infection, you’re putting yourself at risk. 

"The best chance anyone has of a full recovery, or of avoiding worsened long‑term complications, is to rest far more than they think they need. That message must be made clear to the public.” 

Physical fitness does not protect against post-viral illness. Many hundreds of thousands of people in the UK developed M.E. after “pushing through” viral infections, unaware of the risks. We sincerely hope Declan Rice makes a full recovery despite overexerting while still symptomatic. Many others did not.

Across the M.E. community, people describe remarkably similar experiences. Before diagnosis, they did not know what PEM was, did not realise everyday activities counted as exertion, and did not understand that rest was protective. Many assumed exertion meant only sport or exercise, not showering, commuting, studying, or housework. They followed general public health advice, usually offered by healthcare professionals, to stay active, unaware that it could worsen their condition.

These stories are not isolated. They are representative of the wider M.E. community, which has been consistently harmed by missing public health caveats.

People who meet diagnostic criteria for M.E. but remain undiagnosed are extremely difficult to reach. They are not in specialist clinics or patient groups. They are not reading M.E.-specific resources. They are simply trying to recover from a virus, following general public health advice, advice that currently lacks the clear, publicly communicated, caveats they urgently need.

This is precisely why an official public messaging campaign is essential. Without it, misinformation spreads easily. Harmful “push through it” narratives dominate. People unknowingly worsen their condition. Early intervention opportunities are lost and preventable disability becomes common.

The absence of clear, authoritative messaging creates a vacuum, and that vacuum is filled with confusion, contradictory advice, and cultural pressure to stay active at all costs.

The UK Chief Medical Officer’s physical activity guidance promotes movement and activity,  but without any publicly communicated caveats about post-viral illness, PEM, or the risks of exertion during recovery. This omission leaves the public vulnerable.

Victorian-era public health campaigns understood something modern messaging has forgotten: rest is medicine. Rest is a legitimate, evidence-based intervention during and after viral illness.

The public needs clear, accessible information about PEM, a delayed worsening of symptoms 24 to 72 hours after physical, cognitive, or emotional exertion. PEM is not normal tiredness; it is a pathological response. Everyday activities count as exertion. Stepping back from life early can mean the difference between recovery and lifelong disability.

This is not specialist or niche medical knowledge; it is fundamental public health information that must be embedded in national guidance. At present, an estimated 1.3 million people in the UK meet the diagnostic criteria for M.E., and every one of them experiences Post‑Exertional Malaise. Yet many remain unaware of what PEM is or how it affects them, largely because gaps in clinical understanding mean their GPs have never explained it.

In the absence of clear caveats from the UK’s Chief Medical Officers, the public is left with dangerously incomplete guidance. 

A national public health campaign is urgently needed, one that explains post-viral illness and PEM in simple terms, emphasises the benefits of rest, teaches people to recognise early warning signs, challenges harmful cultural narratives about “pushing through,” and ensures that healthcare professionals and the public understand that overexertion can cause long-term harm. 

Crucially, such a campaign must reach undiagnosed people, who are currently invisible to the system and at greatest risk.

This campaign must be as visible and culturally embedded as Victorian-era rest messaging,  because the stakes are just as high.

When a national hero plays through illness in extreme heat, millions see it as strength. But for those at risk of post-viral illness, it models behaviour that can lead to permanent disability.

We cannot continue to celebrate endurance while ignoring the science of post-viral harm.

The UK needs a public health messaging overhaul, one that protects people, prevents avoidable disability, and ensures that no one loses their health simply because they were never told to rest.

http://www.mefoggydog.org

Cor Hutton's 3,000-Mile Charity Drive Inspires Hope for Scotland's Amputees

Cor Hutton, founder of Finding Your Feet, is driving 3,000 miles across Europe in a 19-year-old Audi TT to raise funds for Scotland's amputee community. An inspiring story of courage, resilience and hope.

Some journeys are measured in miles. Others are measured in courage.

This August, Scottish charity founder Cor Hutton will embark on an extraordinary 3,000-mile drive from Glasgow to Nice and back in a 19-year-old Audi TT with more than 120,000 miles on the clock. On the surface, it may sound like a quirky motoring adventure, but for Cor, every mile represents hope for people rebuilding their lives after limb loss.

Cor's own life changed forever when sepsis claimed both of her hands and both of her feet. While her family surrounded her with love and support, she discovered there was no community that truly understood the emotional and practical challenges she faced. Rather than accept that gap, she created one herself.

Finding Your Feet is now Scotland's only nationwide charity dedicated to supporting amputees, people born without limbs and their families. Through peer support, counselling, wellbeing services and inclusive activities, it has become a lifeline for countless people navigating life after limb loss.

Cor is no stranger to extraordinary achievements. She has previously conquered Mount Kilimanjaro, Ben Nevis and the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Following a kidney transplant in 2024, and living with two prosthetic legs, two transplanted hands and just one-third of a lung, mountain climbing is no longer possible. Instead, she has chosen a challenge that reflects her determination just as powerfully.

Accompanied by her friend Evie Jackson, her son Rory, who will celebrate his 18th birthday during the trip, and a small convoy of supporters, Cor will tackle one of Europe's most iconic driving routes. Highlights include the breathtaking Stelvio Pass in the Italian Alps with its famous 48 hairpin bends, the Monaco Grand Prix circuit and the stunning Côte d'Azur before reaching Nice.

Speaking about the challenge, Cor admitted she is both excited and anxious.

She worries about the reliability of her beloved ageing convertible, the physical demands of driving up to ten hours a day and whether enough money will be raised to secure another year of support for the charity's members.

"For many, we're the only support they have," she told That's Health. "There's the motivation, right there."

Joining the rally is fellow Finding Your Feet volunteer Babs Poole from Dundee, a double above-knee amputee who hopes her participation will inspire others never to let disability define them.

"We will not be defined as amputees in chairs," Babs said. "I will push every boundary and live life to the full."

The convoy leaves Linwood on 11 August before joining the official Two Ball Banger Rally through ten countries, returning to Scotland on 21 August.

Cor's remarkable journey is about far more than reaching the finish line. It is a moving reminder that even after life's greatest setbacks, compassion, resilience and community can help people discover new beginnings. Every mile travelled helps ensure that Finding Your Feet can continue offering hope to those who need it most.

To support Cor's fundraising challenge or learn more about Finding Your Feet, visit findingyourfeet.net

Liver Disease Often Develops Silently. New Survey Reveals Alarming Lack of Public Awareness

Only 9% of people actively monitor their liver health despite liver disease being one of the leading causes of premature death in working-age adults, new Liver UK research reveals.

Liver disease is one of the UK's fastest-growing health concerns, yet a new survey suggests it remains largely overlooked by the public.

New research commissioned by Liver UK, the charity formed through the merger of the British Liver Trust and Children's Liver Disease Foundation, has found that only 9% of people actively think about or monitor their liver health. That is despite liver disease being one of the leading causes of premature death among working-age adults.

When 2,000 UK adults were asked to name the three health conditions they worry about most, cancer, heart disease, stroke and mental health dominated the list. Liver disease barely registered, even though it claimed over 12,300 lives across the UK in 2023. According to the latest Office for National Statistics figures, it is now the second biggest killer of people under 65 in England and Wales.

Unlike many serious illnesses that become more common with age, liver disease frequently affects people during their working years. Premature deaths from liver disease in England have risen by 42% since 2001, making it one of the few major diseases where mortality continues to increase rather than decline.

The survey also uncovered several worrying misconceptions about liver disease. One in three people incorrectly believe it is caused only by alcohol, while one in five think babies and children cannot develop liver disease. More than half of those questioned were unaware that liver disease can develop without causing any symptoms during its early stages.

That lack of awareness is particularly concerning because liver disease often progresses silently. Many people feel perfectly well until significant, and sometimes irreversible, damage has already occurred. Experts estimate that around three-quarters of patients receive their diagnosis only when opportunities for effective treatment have become much more limited.

Pamela Healy, Chief Executive of Liver UK, said the survey highlights not only a lack of understanding, but also a lack of recognition that liver disease is a major public health issue.

She told That's Health that too many families continue to experience avoidable heartbreak because the condition is detected far too late, and called on both the Government and the NHS to place greater emphasis on prevention, earlier diagnosis and improved access to care.

One family knows that heartbreak all too well.

Sara Harding lost her father, Stephen, at the age of 62, only months after he was diagnosed with advanced liver disease. Although he had previously been told he had a fatty liver, the family never realised how serious the condition could become.

Sara hopes that by sharing her father's story, more people will understand that liver disease can progress quietly for years and that knowing your personal risk factors is just as important as recognising symptoms.

For many people, simple lifestyle changes, routine health checks and earlier investigation of risk factors could make a life-changing difference. Liver disease is not always preventable, but earlier diagnosis gives the best chance of slowing or even reversing damage before it becomes irreversible.

Greater awareness today could help save lives tomorrow.

www.liveruk.org

Sun, Sea, Surgery and Sepsis? Britons Warned Over Cosmetic Surgery Abroad as Major Study Reveals Serious Complications

Anyone considering travelling overseas for cosmetic surgery is being urged to think carefully after a major UK study revealed that complications from procedures carried out abroad are placing a growing burden on both patients and the NHS.

The research, conducted by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), is the largest UK study of its kind and analysed 198 cases of people who required treatment after returning home from cosmetic surgery overseas. 

The findings highlight the potentially serious consequences of chasing lower-cost procedures without fully understanding the risks involved.

According to the study, nearly three-quarters of patients required further medical treatment or surgery once back in the UK, while almost half needed corrective operations under general anaesthetic. The complications ranged from severe infections and wounds reopening to tissue death and fluid build-up requiring repeated treatment. Tragically, one patient died after suffering a pulmonary embolism.

The majority of complications followed procedures carried out in Turkey, accounting for 76% of the cases studied. Women represented 93% of patients, with an average age of just 39. Tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) were the most common procedure associated with complications, while many patients had undergone several major cosmetic operations during the same trip abroad.

The study found 37% of patients experienced wounds that failed to heal properly, 28% developed infections, 24% suffered fluid collections known as seromas, and 20% experienced tissue necrosis, where skin or fat dies due to poor blood supply.

BAAPS believes several factors are contributing to the growing problem. These include the popularity of social media advertising, influencer endorsements and all-inclusive cosmetic surgery holiday packages, which often focus on low prices while paying less attention to the realities of recovery and aftercare.

Surgeons treating returning patients reported concerns including inadequate follow-up care, patients being accepted for surgery despite significant health risks, multiple complex procedures being performed during one operation, and people flying home before it was medically advisable.

The financial impact is also significant. BAAPS estimates that treating these complications has already cost the NHS between £1.2 million and £1.8 million, although the true figure is likely to be much higher because many cases are treated by emergency departments, GPs and other hospital specialties without being included in the association's database.

BAAPS President Nora Nugent warned that cosmetic surgery should never be viewed as a holiday activity.

She told That's Health that while overseas clinics often promote luxury hotels, attractive prices and impressive before-and-after photographs, they rarely show the patients who return home with serious infections, open wounds or life-threatening complications.

The association stresses that many overseas surgeons provide excellent care and that millions of cosmetic procedures are performed safely around the world each year. 

However, anyone considering travelling abroad should thoroughly research their surgeon, verify professional accreditation, understand exactly what aftercare will be available, ensure they are medically fit for surgery and avoid making decisions based on price alone.

BAAPS is calling for greater public awareness, tighter regulation of overseas cosmetic surgery advertising, improved monitoring of complications within the NHS and consideration of compulsory complication insurance for patients travelling abroad for cosmetic procedures.

As the study concludes, what appears to be a bargain operation can quickly become a very costly complication, both for the patient and for the health service.

To learn more visit baaps.org.uk

That's Health will also be covering the risks of travelling overseas for dental work in the near future.

National Recognition for Kentown Support’s Collaborative Approach to Children’s Palliative Care

Kentown Support has been recognised for its pioneering approach to children's palliative care after winning the Partnership Working Across Health and Social Care Award at the 2026 Palliative and End of Life Care Awards.

The national honour celebrates the organisation's commitment to bringing together health and social care services to provide coordinated, family-centred support for seriously ill children and young people. It recognises teams that demonstrate outstanding collaboration across multiple organisations, creating lasting improvements that extend beyond individual services.

The award highlights the success of the Kentown programme model, which aims to ensure every child with a life-limiting condition and their family can access integrated, round-the-clock community palliative care wherever they live in the UK.

Judges were particularly impressed by Kentown Support's work in Greater Manchester, praising the programme for bringing together ten commissioners alongside a range of charitable organisations under a single, joined-up framework.

In their citation, the judging panel said the Greater Manchester programme: "Delivers an exceptional entry that demonstrates outstanding cross-system integration by uniting ten commissioners and multiple charities under one framework. The unique single point of access creates a true multidisciplinary team."

The comments reflect the organisation's belief that the best outcomes for families come when healthcare professionals, charities and social care providers work seamlessly together rather than in isolation.

By creating a single point of access and encouraging genuine collaboration between partners, Kentown Support has helped bridge gaps that can often exist between services. This integrated approach makes it easier for families to access the support they need while ensuring children receive the right care, from the right professionals, at the right time.

For families already coping with the emotional and practical challenges of caring for a seriously ill child, reducing the complexity of navigating multiple services can make a significant difference. A coordinated approach also helps professionals share expertise and resources more effectively, leading to better continuity of care.

The award also recognises the commitment of Kentown Support's many partners across Greater Manchester, whose willingness to work together has helped create a more connected and responsive support network for local families.

Dr Helena Dunbar, Chief Executive of Kentown Support, said she was immensely proud of the achievement. She told That's Health: "I'm incredibly proud to receive this recognition and would like to thank everyone who has contributed to making this model a success.

"This achievement belongs to all those who share our ambition to transform children's palliative care through partnership, innovation and integrated working. Together, we are making a real difference to the lives of seriously ill children, young people and their families."

The award underlines how effective partnership working can transform children's palliative care, ensuring families receive compassionate, coordinated support when they need it most.

www.kentownsupport.org.uk

Discover Your Ability 2026 Inspires Hundreds and Raised £20,000 for Disability Charity

Able2B's Discover Your Ability 2026 brought together more than 250 participants to celebrate inclusion, raise over £20,000 and prove that disability does not define potential.

Over 250 people from across the UK and Europe came together in Norwich for Able2B's flagship Discover Your Ability 2026 event, raising more than £20,000 so far while delivering an inspiring reminder that disability should never define a person's potential.

Rather than focusing on competition, the annual event celebrates determination, inclusion and personal achievement. 

Children, young people and adults living with disabilities, neurological conditions and long-term health conditions tackled a series of physical challenges side by side, encouraging one another every step of the way.

For the team at Able2B, the day represents much more than a fundraising event. It demonstrates the charity's belief that with the right support, encouragement and opportunities, people can achieve far more than they or others may once have believed possible.

Throughout the day there were countless inspirational moments.

Tommy, who suffered a global brain injury following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, had once been told he was unlikely to survive and would never walk or communicate again. This year he independently completed the course in his powered wheelchair before walking the final 30 to 40 metres with support.

Twenty-four-year-old Holly, who had been unable to stand just four months ago after spending around three years in a wheelchair, thrilled supporters by running approximately 200 metres across the finish line.

Participants also travelled from Ireland, Germany and across Britain. Among them was Anke, who lives with cerebral palsy. After previously being told she required a hip replacement because of severe pain, she completed the course using hiking poles, pain free, following support from Able2B.

Eight-year-old Harry also captured hearts. Just three years ago he relied on a K-walker and lacked the confidence to join in with other children. This year he spent the day running lap after lap with his teammates as his proud parents watched from the sidelines.

Co-founder and consultant orthopaedic surgeon Rachael Hutchinson said the most powerful part of the day was seeing strangers become teammates, supporting one another regardless of their individual challenges.

Former British and European boxing champion and Able2B co-founder Jon Thaxton added that success is measured not simply by crossing a finish line, but by the confidence gained, friendships formed and perceptions changed.

With planning already underway for Discover Your Ability 2027, the charity continues to prove that when barriers are removed and opportunities are created, extraordinary things really can happen.

Those wishing to support Able2B's life-changing work can still donate through the Discover Your Ability 2026 JustGiving page, https://www.justgiving.com/page/able2b-directors-23?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

https://www.able2b.co.uk

Free Online Ayurveda for Sleep Masterclass Offers Natural Tips for Better Rest

Discover how Ayurveda could help improve your sleep with a free online masterclass from the British Wheel of Yoga. 

Learn practical bedtime routines and natural wellbeing tips.

If you've ever climbed into bed feeling exhausted only to wake up the next morning still feeling tired, you're certainly not alone. 

Millions of people across the UK struggle to get a good night's sleep, and many regularly get less than the recommended seven hours.

The good news is that help could be just a click away.

The British Wheel of Yoga is inviting everyone to take part in a completely free online masterclass, Ayurveda for Sleep, on Wednesday 8 July from 5.00pm to 6.15pm. 

The session will be led by respected Ayurvedic practitioner and British Wheel of Yoga Teacher Trainer Tarik Dervish (PICTURED) and is open to everyone, whether you already practise yoga or are simply looking for natural ways to improve your sleep.

Rather than focusing solely on what happens once your head hits the pillow, Ayurveda takes a much broader view of health and wellbeing. 

This traditional system of medicine, which originated in India thousands of years ago, looks at how our daily routines, diet, stress levels, environment and relationship with nature all influence the quality of our sleep.

According to Tarik Dervish, sleep should never be viewed in isolation.

He explains to That's Health that Ayurveda encourages us to reconnect with the natural rhythms of the day and the world around us, helping to restore balance to both body and mind. Many of us spend our days indoors under artificial lighting, staring at screens and rushing from one task to another. 

The masterclass explores how small changes to our evening routines can help us unwind more naturally before bedtime.

During the session, participants will discover practical techniques that can be put into practice immediately. These include simple evening rituals, lifestyle adjustments and information about traditional herbs and remedies that Ayurveda associates with better sleep. There will also be a live question-and-answer session, giving attendees the opportunity to ask their own questions directly to Tarik.

Here at That's Health, we're always interested in sensible, evidence-informed ways to improve wellbeing. While Ayurveda should not be seen as a replacement for professional medical advice or treatment for persistent sleep disorders, many people find that healthy bedtime routines, reducing stress and reconnecting with natural daily rhythms can make a real difference.

If you've been finding it difficult to switch off at night or simply want to learn more about a holistic approach to better sleep, this free event could be well worth an hour of your time.

You can reserve your free place here: https://portal.bwy.org.uk/user/events/1172?

Ayurveda for Sleep – Free Online Masterclass

Spaces are limited, but the event is free for both members and non-members of the British Wheel of Yoga.

The That's Health Right and Wrong Ways to Stay Safe During the Next Heatwave

Learn the safest ways to cope with the next UK heatwave. 

Discover common mistakes to avoid and practical tips to prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

When temperatures soar, it's tempting to reach for quick fixes to stay cool. Unfortunately, some of the most common ways people try to beat the heat can actually make things worse – or even put their health at risk.

With another heatwave likely to arrive this summer, now is the perfect time to separate the myths from the facts and make sure you, your family and your neighbours stay safe.

❌ Wrong: Waiting Until You're Thirsty to Drink

By the time you feel thirsty, you're already beginning to become dehydrated.

✅ Right:

Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. If you're sweating heavily, drinks containing electrolytes may also help replace lost salts. Limit alcohol, as it increases dehydration.

❌ Wrong: Throwing Open Every Window

Many people automatically open every window in the house.

✅ Right:

If it's hotter outside than indoors, keep windows and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day. Open them early in the morning and later in the evening when temperatures drop to let cooler air circulate.

❌ Wrong: Sitting in Front of a Powerful Fan All Day

Fans can help, but they're not a miracle cure.

✅ Right:

Electric fans work best when temperatures are below about 35°C. If they're simply blowing extremely hot air around, they may not cool you effectively. For people with allergies or respiratory conditions, consider using air purifiers or fans fitted with HEPA filtration to reduce airborne dust and pollen.

❌ Wrong: Leaving Pets or Children in Cars

Even for "just a minute".

✅ Right:

Never, ever leave children, older adults or pets in parked vehicles. Temperatures inside can rise to dangerous levels within minutes, even if the windows are slightly open.

❌ Wrong: Eating Heavy Meals

Large, hot meals can increase your body's temperature.

✅ Right:

Choose lighter meals such as salads, fruit, yoghurt and cold pasta dishes. Foods with a high water content, including watermelon, cucumber and strawberries, can also help keep you hydrated.

❌ Wrong: Ignoring Vulnerable People

Heat affects everyone differently.

✅ Right:

Older people, babies, pregnant women and those with heart, lung or kidney conditions are especially vulnerable. Check in on elderly relatives, neighbours and friends, particularly if they live alone.

❌ Wrong: Exercising During the Hottest Part of the Day

A midday jog might seem like dedication, but it can be dangerous.

✅ Right:

If you need to exercise, do it early in the morning or later in the evening. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing and drink plenty of fluids before, during and after activity.

❌ Wrong: Believing Sunburn Is the Only Risk

Heat-related illnesses can develop before your skin burns.

✅ Right:

Watch for symptoms including:

Dizziness

Headache

Muscle cramps

Excessive sweating

Nausea

Confusion

Rapid heartbeat

If someone becomes confused, stops sweating despite the heat, loses consciousness or develops a very high body temperature, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Stay One Step Ahead

Preparing for a heatwave doesn't have to be complicated. A few simple changes to your daily routine can dramatically reduce the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Keep a bottle of water nearby, stay out of the strongest sunshine between 11am and 3pm where possible, wear a hat and sunscreen outdoors, and don't forget to check on vulnerable neighbours.

The next heatwave may be just around the corner, but with a little planning and some common sense, you can stay cool, comfortable and healthy whatever the thermometer says.

The Asda Mobility Scooter issue. What are the facts?

A model accessibility sign 

You might have seen reports on the refusal of Asda to lend an instore mobility scooter to a disabled man, because he declined to offer them his name and address and his allegation that several security guards escorted him from the shop.

https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/uk-news/asda-mobility-scooter-row-after-34201210.amp

Based on the reporting available so far, this appears to be a situation where both sides have understandable positions, but there are also legitimate questions about consistency and customer service.

What Asda's policy appears to be

Asda has publicly confirmed that it is company policy to ask customers borrowing an in-store mobility scooter to provide "a few details" (including name and address) before using one. The company says this is done for the safety of colleagues and customers and that the policy applies across all stores. It has also written to Mr Daniels explaining the policy and offered to discuss the incident further.

The Widnes store advertises that mobility scooters are available as part of its accessibility services, alongside wheelchairs and disabled facilities.

Why Asda may ask for details

Although Asda has not published a detailed public policy explaining every reason, retailers commonly request personal details because:

They are lending valuable equipment.

They need to know who is using a scooter if there is an accident or medical emergency.

Scooters occasionally leave the store or car park.

It provides accountability if equipment is damaged or abandoned.

It allows staff to identify who is using the scooter if assistance is needed.

Those are all reasonable operational and health and safety considerations.

Mr Daniels' position

Mr Daniels also raises understandable concerns.

According to the reports:

he is 73,

uses two walking sticks,

has recently been diagnosed with cancer,

says he regularly uses a scooter at another Asda branch without being asked for personal details,

refused to give his address "on principle",

says he felt humiliated after being surrounded by several security guards and asked to leave.

If his account is accurate, the differing approach between stores is significant because it creates confusion about what customers should expect.

The bigger issue may be consistency

Perhaps the most interesting health and accessibility story isn't whether Asda has the right to ask for details, it almost certainly does on private property.

Instead, the questions are:

Are all Asda stores applying the same policy?

Have staff been trained to explain why the information is needed?

Could customers be reassured about how their personal data will be used?

Does requesting this information comply with all relevant data protection laws?

Was there a more compassionate way of handling a disabled customer who was already distressed?

Many disagreements can be avoided simply by saying:

"I'm sorry, but it's company policy. We only use your details for safety while you're using the scooter."

That explanation may have prevented the situation from escalating.

A balanced conclusion

On the information currently available:

Asda appears to have been within its rights to require personal details before lending one of its mobility scooters, provided this genuinely is company policy.

Mr Daniels was equally entitled to refuse to provide those details.

Once he refused, Asda was entitled not to lend the scooter.

The unresolved question is whether the interaction could have been handled with greater empathy and consistency, particularly given Mr Daniels' age and health.

For a That's Health audience, there is a broader issue worth exploring: accessibility is about much more than ramps and mobility scooters. It is also about ensuring disabled customers are treated with dignity, that policies are applied consistently, and that staff communicate those policies clearly and compassionately.

We have looked an Asda's website and it has no information that we could easily find as to their rules regarding borrowing mobility scooters. That's an important point in itself.

We searched for Asda's published policy and, despite Asda telling the media that requesting a customer's name and address is "company policy", we could not find any publicly available page on Asda's website explaining:

who may use the scooters,

whether providing personal details is mandatory,

exactly what information is collected,

why it is collected,

how long it is retained,

or what happens if a customer refuses.

That lack of transparency is newsworthy.

For comparison, many town-centre Shopmobility schemes openly explain their borrowing conditions online. Some require users to register and present proof of identity and address before borrowing equipment, together with information about data protection and terms of use.

Asda, however, appears simply to say after incidents such as this that the requirement is "company policy", without making that policy readily accessible to customers.

"If Asda requires disabled customers to hand over personal information before using a mobility scooter, why isn't that policy clearly published on its website or displayed prominently in stores?"

That raises several perfectly reasonable questions:

Is the policy applied consistently across all Asda stores?

What information is required, just a name and address, or something more?

Is photographic ID ever required?

Under what legal basis is the personal data processed?

How long is the information retained?

Are customers given a privacy notice before providing it?

Why do some customers report using scooters without being asked for any details?

Those are questions about transparency rather than criticism.

If shops do claim to abide by various protocols and offer to help people with disabilities, then it would seem logical to have signs in the shop outlining in easy-to-read notices in a prominent position stating what disabled people can expect from the shop and, conversely, what the shop can expect from the disabled person in return.

To learn about Shop Mobility Schemes visit their website

https://www.shopmobilityuk.org/find-a-centre

New Pain Relief Research Offers Hope for Millions, Reports That's Health

Millions of people around the world live with pain every day, whether recovering from surgery, managing an injury or coping with a long-term condition. 

Now, encouraging new research from pharmaceutical company Grünenthal suggests that a completely new type of pain treatment could one day offer an effective alternative to traditional opioid medications.

The company has announced the successful completion of a Phase I clinical trial for an investigational medicine that works in an entirely different way from existing opioid painkillers. The study involved 113 healthy volunteers and found the compound to be safe and well tolerated, with no dose-related pattern of adverse effects observed during the trial.

While the treatment is still in development and has not yet been approved for patient use, the results represent an important milestone.

Grünenthal plans to begin a larger Phase II clinical trial later this year, involving around 400 patients in the United States who are undergoing bunion surgery. Bunionectomy is widely recognised by researchers as an effective way to evaluate how well new pain medicines perform after surgery. Results from this next stage of the research are expected during the second half of 2027.

A Different Way to Treat Pain

What makes this investigational medicine particularly exciting is that it targets the body's nociceptin (NOP) receptor rather than the opioid receptors affected by conventional opioid drugs.

Researchers believe this unique mechanism of action could provide meaningful pain relief while avoiding many of the side effects that have long been associated with opioid medicines, including drowsiness, constipation and respiratory depression. Importantly, no signs suggesting abuse potential were observed during the Phase I study, although much larger trials will be needed to confirm these early findings.

Dr Uli Brödl, Chief Scientific Officer at Grünenthal, said the company hopes selective activation of the nociceptin receptor could introduce an entirely new option for treating both acute and chronic pain.

Why This Matters

Pain management remains one of the biggest challenges in modern healthcare. While opioid medicines play an important role for many patients, concerns about side effects, dependence and misuse have driven researchers worldwide to search for safer alternatives.

Every successful step in developing new pain therapies brings fresh optimism for people living with painful conditions. Although there is still a long road ahead before this investigational medicine could become widely available, the completion of a successful Phase I trial is an encouraging sign.

As further clinical trials continue over the coming years, researchers will be looking to confirm whether this innovative treatment can provide the effective, long-lasting pain relief that so many patients need while maintaining a favourable safety profile.

For anyone affected by chronic pain or facing future surgery, developments like these offer genuine hope that the next generation of pain treatments could be both safer and more effective than many of today's options.

grunenthal.com

Powerful Fans Can Spread More Than Cool Air – Why HEPA Filtration Matters

Powerful fans without HEPA filters can spread dust, pollen and allergens around your home or office. Discover why HEPA-filtered fans are a healthier choice.

As temperatures soar, powerful electric fans become an essential feature in homes and workplaces across the UK. 

They can make a room feel significantly more comfortable by increasing airflow and helping sweat evaporate, but there is an important downside that many people overlook.

If a fan doesn't include an effective HEPA filter, it may also circulate dust, pollen, mould spores, pet dander and other airborne particles around the room. 

For many people this is simply an inconvenience, but for those with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions, it can make symptoms considerably worse.

Why ordinary fans can be a problem

A standard pedestal, desk or tower fan works by moving the air that is already in the room. Unless that air is being cleaned first, everything suspended within it is also kept in circulation.

This includes:

House dust

Pollen

Pet hair and dander

Dust mite allergens

Mould spores

Fine airborne particles

Smoke residue

The more powerful the fan, the more effectively these particles are distributed throughout the room.

If you have ever noticed sneezing or itchy eyes shortly after switching on a fan, this may be the reason.

Who is most at risk?

Airborne particles can be particularly troublesome for:

People with asthma

Hay fever sufferers

Those with COPD or other chronic lung diseases

Young children

Older adults

People recovering from respiratory infections

Anyone with weakened immune systems

For these individuals, poor indoor air quality can trigger coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or irritated eyes and noses.

The HEPA difference

A fan equipped with a genuine HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter offers a very different approach.

Rather than simply moving contaminated air around the room, it continuously draws air through the filter before circulating it back into the living space.

A true HEPA filter is designed to capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles measuring 0.3 microns in diameter, including many of the allergens and pollutants commonly found indoors.

This means the air gradually becomes cleaner while the room is being cooled.

Many premium air circulators and air purifier fans combine cooling with filtration, providing two benefits at once.

Ideal for homes and offices

HEPA-filtered fans can be particularly valuable in:

Home offices

Bedrooms

Children's rooms

Care homes

GP surgeries

Waiting rooms

Offices with large numbers of staff

Retail premises, especially smaller shops

They may also help improve comfort during allergy season when windows are open and pollen levels are high.

Don't forget maintenance

Even the best HEPA-equipped fan needs regular maintenance.

Filters should be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommendations, and dust should be removed from the fan housing and air intakes to keep the unit operating efficiently.

The bottom line

When shopping for a cooling fan this summer, don't focus solely on airflow or noise levels.

If someone in your household or workplace suffers from asthma, allergies or another respiratory condition, investing in a fan with genuine HEPA filtration could improve indoor air quality as well as comfort.

A powerful fan without filtration simply moves air around. A HEPA-filtered fan helps make that air cleaner too, a difference that could be especially important for the most vulnerable members of your family or workforce.

You can learn more about what types of HEPA fans are available and purchase them at the That's Health online shop, here https://amzn.to/4f7vUHE