As we emerge from Winter it’s time to get out and about! You may feel more like getting involved in some of the activities on offer locally. Here are a few ideas to whet your appetite.
Getting out and about
The Heathwalks movement is led by volunteers and caters for all abilities. For Brighton call 01273 294589 for more information. The Hop 50+ in Hove has a wide range of low-cost activities and trips on offer. You can contact them on 01273 729603. If you would prefer one to one support to enable you to get out walking or take part in an activity our team would love to help so do get in touch.
Getting out in your garden
Our gardening team say it’s a great time of year to be pruning. “Whilst the plants are dormant it’s a good time to be pruning plants so that in Spring they will burst into life more vigorously”. If you would like help with your garden either as a one-off or regularly do give us a call.
Getting out to the dentist
We know that accessing dental appointments has become ever more difficult. For urgent dental care there is currently an NHS scheme in place for Sussex residents who are unable to get an urgent dental appointment or for patients without access to a regular dentist. If you need to use this service (which will remain in place until at least 31 March 2025) please contact the Sussex Dental Helpline on 0300 123 1663. For non-urgent dental services in the comfort of your own home we’re delighted to recommend Jo. Jo Crossman is a mobile dental therapist, and works under the Home & Company umbrella. Do ring us for more information.
Getting help from your pharmacist
In January we took part in an NHS consultation event looking at proposed developments in the NHS. We were reminded about the Pharmacy First initiative which means that your local pharmacist can now see you for minor illnesses or for repeat prescriptions, rather than trying to book a GP appointment. The seven common illnesses that pharmacies can provide a consultation on are: sore throats, earache, sinusitis, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles and UTIs for women.
Getting help with adaptations in your home
Do you need adaptations to your home? Did you know that the Disabled Facilities Grant is available through your local council? Following the Government’s Autumn Statement an increased allocation for 2025-2026 has been confirmed. You may be eligible for a grant if you are disabled and need to make changes to your home such as: widen doors and install ramps; improve access to rooms and facilities such as installing a stairlift; provide essential facilities such as replacing a bath with a level access shower or adapting the kitchen. The grant is means tested and depends on your household income and savings. If you would like to find out more contact your local council. In Brighton contact Access Point in the first instance on 01273 295555 or email accesspoint@brighton-hove.gov.uk.
As we emerge from winter we hope you continue to keep warm and well, and at least those evenings are slowly getting lighter and the birds are tweeting!
Loretta, Julie, & the team