Healthwatch Bedford Borough

19/01/2026

🫖Brew Monday☕️

Today is , the third Monday in January. The Samaritans remind everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with the people you care about.

Pop the kettle on. Today, small talk turns into big talk 🗣 The day you break open the biscuits and the taboos.

The day you remind everyone how good human connection feels. How easy it is. And what a difference it can make.

Let’s prevent su***de with a cuppa and a catch-up this Brew Monday. Because for many, tomorrow’s too late.

Why Brew Monday?
At Samaritans they know there’s no such thing as ‘Blue Monday’ and that feeling low isn’t just something that happens on Mondays or a random day in January. ​So they say out with the blue and in with the brew! ​

There’s always time for a cuppa and a catch-up. It doesn’t matter if it’s a Monday morning or Saturday night, or if you’re drinking green tea or black coffee. If you’re sharing a cuppa, talking and listening, you’re doing it right. For support, contact:
116 123 (24hrs a day) or email: jo@samaritans.org

Healthwatch Bedford Borough are about to meet our colleagues for a brew and chit-chat, what are you doing for Brew Monday? 🤷🏻‍♀️

19/01/2026

During winter, the cold, windy and damp weather can all make existing health problems worse.

Find out how you can stay well this winter. http://nhs.uk/staywell

13/01/2026

🏋🏾‍♂️Out in the community at Gainz Gym!

Today, Healthwatch Bedford Borough was delighted to visit Gainz Gym, Shuttleworth Road, Bedford, as part of our community outreach work. Obed was able to introduce himself and the role of Healthwatch to staff.

Gyms and fitness spaces play a vital role in supporting both physical and mental wellbeing, so it was brilliant to meet people who are actively taking charge of their health. We'll be going back again to gather valuable feedback that will help us highlight what’s working well — and where improvements are needed.

A big thank you to Gainz Gym who took the time to speak with us. Your experiences help shape better health and care services for the whole community.

📣 If you couldn’t catch us, you can still share your views — your voice matters!
https://www.healthwatchbedfordborough.co.uk/have-your-say

07/01/2026

Did you know that you might be entitled to Attendance Allowance if you have an illness or disability? 💷

Attendance Allowance can make a real difference, but the claim form can be daunting. That's why we've brought together our top tips on filling it out, from what to include to examples of how to phrase things. Find our brand new guide to the Attendance Allowance claim form here: https://bit.ly/3Y3GLco

07/01/2026

❄️ Take care on the ice today! ❄️

After another freezing night, there’s a lot of ice around this morning. Please take extra care and allow more time for your journey to avoid slips and falls.

✅ 1. Wear the right footwear: Choose shoes or boots with good grip and non-slip soles. Avoid smooth-soled shoes.
✅ 2. Take small, careful steps: Walk slowly, shorten your stride, and keep your feet flat for better balance.
✅ 3. Keep hands free: Use a backpack instead of carrying heavy bags and keep your hands out of your pockets.
✅ 4. Use railings and support: Hold onto handrails, where provided.
✅ 5. Stay on cleared paths, if possible: Stick to gritted or salted paths and avoid untreated shortcuts.
✅ 6. Watch for black ice: Be extra cautious on shaded areas, bridges, and steps.
✅ 7. Plan ahead: Allow extra time and wear warm layers and gloves.

Stay safe and look out for each other! 💚

07/01/2026

🎒 January Support for Parent Carers – Events This Term

January can feel like a fresh start — but for many parent carers, it’s also when questions, concerns and challenges resurface as children return to school.

This January, BBPCF is offering a range of events and forums to support families at the start of the spring term — providing space to ask questions, get information and connect with others who understand.

Whether you’re looking for guidance, reassurance or simply to feel less alone, our January events are here to support you as the school term begins.

👉 View all January events and book your place:
http://www.bbpcf.co.uk/upcoming-events

30/12/2025

Need to see a dentist urgently? Extra urgent dental appointments are available during the holidays.
Use NHS 111 online first or call 111 to check your symptoms and access the right dental care.
For more information, including a list of urgent dental conditions, visit www.NHS.uk/urgentdentalcare

23/12/2025

23/12/2025

✨️ Welcome to Healthwatch Bedford Borough's festive edition of The Listening Post - bringing you seasonal updates, including important changes to local health and care services over the festive period, the BLMK bank holiday pharmacy rota, su***de prevention support information, a student placement interview on the power of work experience and a seasonal message from our CEO ✨️🎄🕊

https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/1372806/emails/174477871741404191

"As we come to the end of another year, I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who has supported Healthwatch Bedford Borough over the past twelve months. This has been a year of both challenge and progress across the sector, and your voices have continued to play a vital role in shaping bett...

23/12/2025

✨As the year draws to a close, the staff, board members and volunteers at Healthwatch Bedford Borough would like to thank everyone who has supported us this year.

Thanks to local residents, stakeholders and colleagues working across local NHS, social care and statutory services.✨

Wishing you peace, kindness, and good health this Christmas 🎄🕊

18/12/2025

🌟 Bijoy Dibosh 🌟

On 16 December 2025, our new community outreach and volunteer officer, Obed, joined others from Bedford communities in coming together to celebrate Bijoy Dibosh – Victory Day of Bangladesh. 🇧🇩

A heartfelt thank you to ILearn Bedford and the organisers for arranging the gathering. It was truly an honour to commemorate this historic and meaningful occasion.

10/12/2025

To obtain a referral for the Ethnic Food Bank, you have several options:

1. **Charity Organisations**: You can reach out to any local charity organisation. They can provide you with the necessary referral.

2. **General Practitioners (GP)**: Your GP can also issue a referral. If you’re facing food insecurity, don’t hesitate to discuss your situation with your healthcare provider.

3. **Citizens Advice Bedford**: We have a dedicated representative from Citizens Advice Bedford available on-site who can issue referrals on the same day. They are here to support you and ensure that you get the help you need promptly.

The Ethnic Food Bank aims to support individuals and families from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Make sure to bring any necessary identification or documentation that may support your referral application.

- **Opening Hours**: Check the Ethnic Food Bank’s operating hours to ensure you can access services when you need them. (poster & website link in Bio)

- **Additional Support**: Besides food, the Ethnic Food Bank Collaborates with CAB and they may offer additional resources, such as information on housing assistance, financial advice, and community services to help you navigate your situation. ☺️

- **Confidentiality**: All information shared is treated with the utmost confidentiality to protect your privacy.

We are committed to ensuring that no one goes without the support they need. If you have any questions or need assistance with the referral process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.