England's chief pharmaceutical officer David Webb on Friday (July 22) officially opened a community health hub at a Hindu temple in west London.
The interactive health hub, which was built as part of the 'Festival of Inspiration' - a 10-day cultural celebration of the UK's South Asian Hindu communities, will
provide visitors with free health awareness and well-being advice.
The cultural extravaganza, which ends on July 31, draws upon the inspiring life, work and wisdom of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, one of the world's great
spiritual leaders and creator of the iconic Neasden Temple.
Sharing his reflection on the festival and the health hub, Webb said: "It's been an absolute pleasure to visit and be a part of the Festival of Inspiration on the
hundredth centenary of His Holiness. I've been really impressed by the extensive programme of engagement with the community to improve health and wellbeing."
Senior pharmacist Prof Mahendra Patel accompanied Webb during the opening ceremony.
Some of the famous food & drinks festivals that takes place in different parts of America. enjoy different food from freshly cooked fishes to sizzling...
Some of the famous food & drinks festivals that takes place in different parts of America. enjoy different food from freshly cooked fishes to sizzling...
Boots UK's chief pharmacist has been encouraging people to get a flu vaccination by the end of November to help protect themselves, their loved ones and the
NHS this festive season.
Flu cases in the UK are usually highest in the winter months, from December to March. This year, the UK has seen a rise in cases earlier than usual, and therefore
Claire Nevinson, superintendent pharmacist at Boots, reminds people that it is even more important to get protected early to help reduce the risk of spreading the
virus due to increased mixing at Christmas parties and family get togethers.
Approximately 33 million people are eligible for the free NHS flu jab, including those over 50 years of age, pregnant women and those with medical conditions such as
diabetes or heart disease.
The pharmacy multiple says it offers the winter flu jab service, which is suitable for those eligible for the free NHS flu jab as well as privately, adding that it
has already administered over one million flu vaccinations this season.
Ms Nevinson explains: "December is a time to get together with friends and family to celebrate the month's festivities. It's a good idea to plan ahead to ensure you
have your flu jab, and your COVID-19 booster vaccination if you are eligible, if you've not had them already, this the best way to protect yourself and reduce the
risk of passing the viruses to others.
Turning 21 is a significant milestone in a person's life, marking the transition into full-fledged adulthood. It's the age when responsibilities and
possibilities both expand, opening the door to a world of new experiences and opportunities. Now that you've reached this exciting age, you're likely
wondering what unique and exciting things you can do.
Luckily for you, the list is extensive and varied. From exploring the world of wines to finding your own path in the professional world, let's dive into this
thrilling journey of discovery together. Whether you're an adventurous spirit or a contemplative soul, there's something here for everyone. So buckle up, as we
unfold the multitude of options that await you now that you're 21!
Venturing into the World of Wines
For many, turning 21 means being able to legally drink alcohol. If you're a wine enthusiast, then you'll be thrilled to know that there are several ways to
explore the world of wines. You can take a trip to a local vineyard and sample different varieties or join a wine club for exclusive access to rare bottles and
sommelier-led tastings. You can also visit a winery and go on guided tours and pairings to learn more about the production process. No matter which route you
choose, you're sure to gain an appreciation for this age-old beverage and its many nuances.
Many cities and towns offer wine festivals throughout the year, where you can sample different wines and mingle with fellow enthusiasts. If you're feeling
particularly ambitious, you can even take a viticulture class to learn more about how grapes are cultivated and what qualities make up a good bottle of wine.
The message of Diwali - a festival of new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness - seems to take on new layers of meaning every
year.
At the height of the Covid pandemic, it brought to mind the importance of togetherness, as we all struggled through lockdowns and missed the human contact that is
so important to us all.
In 2022, sadly, it feels like there's a lot of darkness in the world. Diwali is so full of hope for the future and we certainly need some of that that right now. In
troubled times, both in the UK and across the globe, Diwali provides an opportunity to reflect and hope for better times ahead.
In their own way, pharmacies bring light to the communities they serve - giving help and reassurance to many vulnerable people. As chair of the NPA it is truly a
privilege to support pharmacy teams to deliver this vital work all year round. Diwali is a family feast - at the NPA we like to think of ourselves as the family
of family-owned pharmacies.
It was a night filled with anticipation and excitement, and the atmosphere was electric with a sense of achievement and pride.
The 23rd annual Pharmacy Business Awards had the honour of hosting the distinguished Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, who
served as the event's chief guest.
The event took place on 4 October at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, located on the South Bank of the River Thames, right across from the Houses of Parliament.
There was a gathering of 600 guests, impeccably attired by the dress code, which added to the festive atmosphere.
In his keynote speech, Labour MP Streeting said the NHS, which marked its 75th anniversary in July, could once again become the "envy of the world".
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) on Thursday (4 December) announced a new strategic partnership with the Bank of England to protect small
businesses from the risks associated with accepting counterfeit banknotes.
Cash is still the number one customer payment method for 25 per cent of small high street businesses, and cash payments are expected to increase during the
festive period, according to FSB.
By becoming a Strategic Partner of the Bank of England's Banknote Checking Scheme, the organisation is trying to help its members become aware of the use of
counterfeit notes, which has reputational and financial impacts.
The FSB is encouraging its members to sign up to the Scheme, which offers training materials to staff so they can identify a counterfeit note at point of sale
and know what to do with it, as well as stay up to date with best practice and bank note developments.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reiterated its concerns about tobacco companies' continued targeting of young people through various channels such as
social media, sports, and music festivals, as well as the introduction of flavored products.
In a joint report with industry watchdog STOP released on Thursday, the WHO accused these companies of attempting to ensnare a new generation in nicotine addiction.
While facing stricter regulations on traditional cigarettes, major tobacco firms and newcomers have turned to alternatives like vapes, arguing they are intended for
adult smokers.
However, the WHO and STOP highlighted in their report that these products often appeal to youth, with their attractive designs and fruity flavors making them more
appealing to children than to adults in many countries.
People are advised to be prepared and order their repeat prescriptions in time so that they don't run out of their routine medicines over the Christmas and
New Year break when services are likely to be busier than normal.
As GP practices will be closed over the bank holidays and only some pharmacies will remain open, local NHS leaders have urged patients to plan ahead to avoid making
last-minute requests for collecting repeat prescriptions, which can add avoidable pressure for doctors, pharmacies, and other NHS services.
Sati Ubhi, Chief Pharmacist at NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, have cautioned patients that running out of their usual medication can have serious consequences.
"By ordering medicines as soon as possible, it allows enough time for it to be processed and dispensed and helps avoid a last-minute rush," she told Fenland Citizen.