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Antibiotics ‘not the answer’ for COVID, flu and other conditions

17 November 2021
Martin Driver
No comments
Categories: Front Page, Health, Latest News, Uncategorized

Someone emptying pills from a jarNHS healthcare professionals are urging people in Sefton to ‘think twice’ before asking for antibiotics to treat conditions such as COVID-19, flu and toothache.

Drug-resistant germs

Their advice comes ahead of this year’s World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, which aims to encourage the responsible use of antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines to prevent the spread of dangerous, drug-resistant germs.

Over time, the overuse or inappropriate use of medicines such as antibiotics can lead to Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and become resistant to medicines. This makes infections harder to treat and increases the risk of diseases spreading, severe illness and death.

Sefton residents are being advised not to take antibiotics when they don’t need them, and if they are unsure, to follow the advice of their doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Not effective

Susanne Lynch MBE, head of medicines management at NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG, said:  “Antibiotics are not always the answer. They are not effective against the COVID-19 virus or against everyday viral infections like the common cold or the flu, so seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist to get the right treatment for your condition.

“Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics when they are needed and when they will be effective against a bacterial infection, so only take these types of medicines when you are advised to do so.

“Patients taking antibiotics unnecessarily puts us all at more risk, as it means that dangerous germs can start to develop resistance to these medicines, meaning they cannot be treated in the future.”

Best options

Dr Yvonne Dailey, lead consultant in dental public health at NHS England and NHS Improvement – North West, said:

“It’s also important to remember that there are solutions other than antibiotics for dental problems like toothache or dental abscesses. Antibiotics are not always the best way of treating tooth decay, gum disease or jaw problems, and are not usually needed.

“Always talk to your dentist if you have worries about pain, swelling, lumps or ulcers in your mouth, including if you are worried about oral cancer. They need to examine you and find out the cause of your problems before they can advise on the best options to treat you.”

Sefton residents who feel unwell and need medical advice for non-emergency conditions are advised to call 111, or visit NHS 111 online. 

Southport Market launches first ever Christmas Extravaganza

16 November 2021
Ollie Cowan
No comments
Categories: Borough Of Culture, Essential Sefton, Front Page, InvestSefton, Latest News

Southport Market is set to play host to a winter wonderland as the popular food and drink venue launches its first Christmas Extravaganza!

Throughout December, Southport Market, on the town’s King Street, will undergo a magical transformation into a festive dream world. There will be  with Christmas film showings, Christmas Markets, additional seating for Christmas bookings and even playing host to the big man himself.

Free events

Sefton Council’s Tourism elves are putting finishing touches to the plans, which will see a host of completely free events take place at Southport Market during the Christmas period.

Decorations will also see the venue adorned with amazing garlands, giant baubles along with an eye-catching tunnel of light.

Book and reserve tables

Anyone wanting to arrange a Christmas get together at the market can now book and reserve tables by pre-purchasing a drinks package for any date between Friday 3rd and Saturday 18th December. And, from Wednesday 11th December, free festive films will be shown in the market’s bespoke events space, in partnership with Bijou Cinema.

Also starting from December 11th, children will be able to visit the market’s special North Pole post office drop-off to ensure their letters to Santa are delivered in time for the big day. Father Christmas and his elves will also be making a special guest appearance on certain dates.

Outdoor chalets featuring a wealth of present and gift ideas will also be located in the area around Southport Market

Wonderland

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Santa’s Sefton representative and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, said: “Southport Market will be a winter wonderland with fun for all the family this December.

“All of the special events we have planned are completely free and we are using a first come, first serve basis for our film showings and Santa meet & greet.

“There is plenty on offer from our incredible traders and they will be complimented by a selection of outdoor shopping chalets.”

Find out more about what’s on offer at Southport Market over the Christmas period.  

 

Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre redevelopment update

16 November 2021
Amy Hitchmough
No comments
Categories: Front Page, Latest News

A Sefton Council spokesperson said:

“Unfortunately, owing to Crossfield Construction Limited’s unacceptable delays and failure to satisfactorily progress the works on the redevelopment of Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre, the Council has terminated its employment under their contract.

“This is a difficult decision, which we realise may have a knock-on effect on local firms subcontracted to Crossfield. We understand and share the frustrations that those subcontractors may have. Disappointingly, it will also delay until next year, the completion of the refurbishment of this tourist and leisure facility in one of Sefton’s most beautiful locations and the creation of new jobs and training opportunities it will bring.

“The Council has worked proactively with the contractor to try to resolve its issues and ensure progression of the project. This decision has been taken after much consideration, but is in line with the Council’s duty to protect the interests of local Council Tax payers and its assets. The decision could not have been communicated earlier, due to the legal and commercial nature of negotiations with the contractor.

“Sefton Council is implementing its contingency plan to complete the scheme and ensure delivery of a first-class asset and the benefits it brings, for residents and visitors, as safely, quickly and economically as possible.”

Ends/

To learn more about Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre and the refurbishment plans, people can visit sefton.gov.uk 

‘Self care doesn’t mean doing it alone’, say Sefton healthcare and community leaders

15 November 2021
Martin Driver
No comments
Categories: Front Page, Health, Latest News

Sefton’s health and community leaders are using Self Care Week (15-21 November) to offer advice and highlight the support available to help residents take better care of their health and wellbeing.

Margaret Jones, Director of Public Health at Sefton Council, said:

“Self Care Week is about encouraging people to take steps to prevent illness, adopt healthier choices, manage minor ailments and look after their health and wellbeing. Self Care Week is a perfect time to think about the changes we can make to help us take better care of ourselves and our families. Self-care doesn’t mean you should do it alone – lots of support is available!”

Susanne Lynch MBE, head of medicines management at NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG, said:

“Knowing what to do and where to go for help is an important part of practising self care. Remember, it isn’t just your GP practice that can help, your local pharmacists are also health experts who can help with all sorts of conditions and treatments. Anyone can access expert advice and buy a range of medicines for minor illnesses over the counter from a local pharmacy, without needing a prescription from their GP.

“In addition, Care at the Chemist is a scheme for patients registered with a GP in Sefton, which enables pharmacists to provide any medicines they recommend for a range of minor conditions, which will be free of charge to patients who do not pay prescription charges.”

Active Sefton is a Sefton Council run initiative that provides services designed to improve physical health and mental wellbeing.

Natalie Ashworth, locality team manager from Active Sefton, said:

“We can provide free NHS health checks which are aimed at picking up early signs of conditions that can then be prevented such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease and helping people live longer, healthier lives.

“We also run services aimed at providing people with the opportunity to live more active and healthy lifestyles and support for older people who may be at risk of a fall, to reduce their risk and maintain their independence. Speak to your GP practice about these services or call 0151 934 2352 for more information”

Support with being active and meeting people is also provided through Living Well Sefton, which is a free service led by Sefton CVS, helping people with issues affecting their health and wellbeing.

Gemma Boardman, programme manager at Living Well Sefton, said:

“Living Well Sefton supports Sefton residents to make small changes to their lives that can have a big impact on their wellbeing. From walking groups to lunch clubs, our mentors can provide in-depth support by working out how physically active you want to be and assess your wellbeing by tailoring a plan just for you.”

If you’re feeling anxious, depressed or simply need someone to talk to, there is plenty of help available. If you’re registered with a GP in Sefton, Talking Matters is a free, confidential service to help deal with common mental health difficulties. Call them on 0300 303 2708 or go to www.mhm.org.uk/talking-matters-sefton.

For practical tips and expert advice to improve your mental health, you can also visit www.kindtoyourmind.org. There’s also a free, confidential, 24/7 text message support service run by Mersey Care, for anyone who is feeling overwhelmed or is struggling to cope. Text HEAL to 85258.”

The NHS website also has a host of information on symptoms, conditions and treatments. If you do need medical advice and aren’t sure where to go, use NHS 111 online at www.111.nhs.uk  or call 111 for assistance in getting the medical help you need.

A huge range of information on local services and support for improving physical and mental health, as well as easy to follow online self care guides for common conditions is available online from:

Statement: Orrell Mount 3G pitch works postponed

12 November 2021
Ollie Cowan
No comments
Categories: Active Sefton, Essential Sefton, Front Page, Green Sefton, Health, Latest News

Cllr Ian Maher, Leader of Sefton Council, has today (Friday, November 12th) announced that work to create brand new 3G pitches on Orrell Mount in Bootle will be temporarily paused in order to continue open dialogue with local community groups.

Throughout the planning application process for the hugely beneficial scheme residents, members of the community and a number of sports organisations were consulted on the plans, which received wide reaching support.

Proposals were approved and work was due to be undertaken on site this week. These works however have now been put on hold following a recent public demonstration.

Cllr Maher said: “While we have continued to engage with the community around Orrell Mount, recent demonstrations on site have indicated there is still more dialogue to be had.

“Our initial consultations led Sefton to revamp, tweak and add in certain elements to the scheme in order to best benefit surrounding residents and address concerns raised, which is why we were confident that a schedule of works could begin in earnest.

“It was never our intention to close the park off while these works took place and this drastic decision was only taken at the eleventh hour in order to keep both the public and contractors safe after it became clear demonstrations could lead to a health and safety issue.

“After a significant amount of discussion between Cabinet, ward members and officers, we have unanimously agreed to temporarily halt all works and reopen the park as a sign of good faith, while we seek to continue further constructive dialogue and consultation with residents.

“We all want to find a solution which allows this hugely beneficial scheme to become a reality and we will now await the findings of this additional consultation before any further potential progression is made.”

Orrell Mount Playing Fields will now fully reopen, however a small number of playground improvement and maintenance works will still be taking place within the grounds.

 

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