The Willow Group

08/09/2025

⚕️ High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer,” usually has no obvious symptoms — yet it is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.

📊 Regularly checking your blood pressure is one of the most important steps you can take for your long-term health. Small lifestyle changes such as improving your diet, increasing activity, and reducing salt can make a significant difference.

📽 Watch this evidence-based video to learn practical strategies to reduce blood pressure: https://ow.ly/tt2Q50WQru1

ℹ️ Find more resources and advice here: https://ow.ly/nZP350WQrtT

06/09/2025

Are you a carer? 💙
Join the Home and Well Hubs for support, advice, a warm lunch, and meeting other carers.

📍 Gosport Waterfront Baptist Church
🗓️ Tuesday 9th Sept, 10am–2pm
🚗 Free parking available

06/09/2025

Emergency Alerts Test – Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm

What to know:
The UK Government will be running a test of the Emergency Alerts system at 3 pm on Sunday 7 September.

Phones and tablets that are compatible will emit a loud siren-like sound and vibrate, even if on silent.

You do not need to take any action during the alert — it's just a test.

This system is designed to warn you of local dangers like severe weather or other emergencies.

Important advice for those at risk of coercive control or domestic abuse: If you’re caring for someone who has a concealed phone or you're in a situation where unexpected alerts could cause harm, it’s vital to be aware and prepared.

Want to opt out?
You can turn off the Emergency Alerts for your device via this official page: gov.uk/alerts/opting-out

Need support or guidance? Leeds Women’s Aid offers tailored information and help on this:
leedswomensaid.co.uk/emergency-alert-test-sunday-7-september-2025

Why it's important:
Regular testing keeps the system reliable in real emergencies, when lives may depend on it.

Stay informed, stay safe.

05/09/2025

Getting older might be inevitable… getting old isn’t! 💪
LIVE LONGER. BETTER. STAY STRONGER.

Created with Gosport residents and local partners, this guide shows how to maintain strength, reduce risk of falls, dementia, and other conditions. Staying active helps you keep doing everyday things you love – from climbing stairs to opening jars.

📄 Find out more in the leaflet below!

05/09/2025

🤒 Is My Child Too Ill for School?

Sniffles or something more serious? It’s not always easy to tell when your child should stay home or head to class.

The NHS has clear guidance to help you decide – and to protect other children from spreading illness.

📌 Check the advice here:https://patient.info/news-and-features/when-is-your-child-too-sick-to-go-to-school?utm_source=MSMS

Let’s keep everyone healthy this term!

01/09/2025

Live Longer Better and Stay Stronger for Longer!

Come along to Brodrick Hall on Saturday 13 September 2025, 11am–2pm for a day full of free activities (including on the water), food and a raffle. It’s a chance to discover what matters most to you, enjoy time outdoors and find ways to stay active and connected.

📍 Brodrick Hall, Clayhall Road, PO12 2BY
✨ All welcome!

Find out more:

Live Longer Better is a Hampshire-wide project to help you find ways to stay independent, live life to the full and keep doing what you love. For more

01/09/2025

UTIs are common, but recognising the symptoms early can help prevent complications. Look out for burning during urination, frequent urges to p*e, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and tummy or back pain. If symptoms persist, see a pharmacist or book with your GP. More info: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/

Men, if you notice changes such as painful urination, lumps, itching, or bumps on the p***s, it’s often nothing serious — but it’s always best to check. Read about what to look out for and when to get advice: https://patient.info/news-and-features/p***s-problems-you-shouldnt-ignore

Stay informed, stay healthy.

31/08/2025

🕯️ International Overdose Awareness Day – 31 August

Today we remember the lives lost to overdose and stand with families, friends, and communities affected around the world.

Overdose can affect anyone – from any background, at any age. Let’s work together to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and take action.

🟣 Learn more and get involved:
https://www.overdoseday.com/

💜 We remember. We act.

29/08/2025

🤰 Just found out you’re expecting? Start your pregnancy care today! You can now refer yourself directly to NHS maternity services using a simple online form—no GP appointment required. If you're over 10 weeks, it's still absolutely okay to apply.

A midwife will contact you to set up your first appointment (ideally by 10 weeks, but sooner is always better).

Find your nearest service and get started here:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/refer-yourself-for-nhs-pregnancy-care/

27/08/2025

☀️ Prickly heat got you feeling uncomfortable?
Heat rash can cause small, itchy red spots—often in skin folds or under clothing.

💡 Top tips to prevent & soothe:
👕 Wear loose, light clothes
❄️ Stay cool & dry
🚿 Take cool showers
💧 Drink plenty of fluids

Keep safe in the heat & look after your skin.
More info from the NHS 👉 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heat-rash-prickly-heat/

26/08/2025

💛 Be Active Hampshire – A Free 12-Week Programme

Want to move more and feel better – in a way that works for YOU?
This welcoming, local programme is for adults (18+) in Hampshire who aren’t currently very active.
No judgement. Just gentle group sessions, friendly support, and activities designed around your needs and confidence.

✅ Group activities
✅ 1:1 support
✅ Local venues, evenings & weekends available
✅ Totally free to join

📞 02382 512366
📧 hello@beactivehampshire.org.uk
🌐 www.beactivehampshire.org.uk

26/08/2025

ART IN THE GARDEN!

Sunday 14 September at 10am

Forton Medical Centre

All welcome