Why it matters: The event at Castle Hill Community Centre on Thursday, 25 September, aims to support local residents' health and wellbeing during winter months, when health challenges often increase.
The details: Experts from local organisations will be on hand from 10:00 to 14:00 at Castle Hill Community Centre on Highfield Road in Ipswich.
The timing coincides with national Falls Prevention Week, highlighting the significance of falls as a major health issue leading to injuries, loss of independence, and substantial NHS costs.
Attendees can learn about the best mobility equipment for their needs, access information about housing adaptations, and discover how regular movement and exercise can reduce fall risks.
The community health team, including physiotherapists and occupational therapists, will check rubber stoppers (ferrules) on walking equipment such as sticks and frames, as worn ferrules can cause slips and falls.
What's on offer: The event provides a wide range of professional help and guidance, including:
Citizens Advice will offer information on benefit entitlement for people of all ages, including help with winter fuel bills and getting the best energy deal. They will also provide advice on ensuring people receive all benefits to which they are entitled.
Free copies of a new booklet called "Accessing Health Services This Winter" will be available, packed with useful information on services across Suffolk. The guide covers accessing 111, how pharmacies can help with minor illness and injury, how to receive flu and COVID vaccinations, and where to seek mental health support.
The Be Well bus will offer flu vaccinations, blood pressure checks and the chance to take part in the Flamingo Challenge - a fun test which asks participants to stand on one leg to raise awareness of the impact ageing has on strength, balancing and agility.
NHS Health Checks, which help determine whether someone is at higher risk of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes or stroke, will be available by appointment to those eligible aged 40 to 74. Bookings can be made by calling 0345 241 3313 and choosing option 3.
Housing support: Help for local rental tenants from Ipswich Borough Council will be available, as well as support for private rental tenants from Warm Homes, Healthy People to assist residents with winter housing needs.
The event will also provide expert advice on how to best cope with the dark winter months to remain mentally resilient, offering useful guidance to keep positive and happy when it's cold and dark outside.
What they're saying: Maddie Baker Woods, Executive Director at NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board, who will attend the event, said: "I'm very much looking forward to joining our winter neighbourhood health event. Thank you to all of our Alliance partners who will be offering information and hints and tips on staying well as the winter approaches. Come and join us - a warm welcome and a cup of tea awaits."
The bigger picture: The event has been organised by the Castle Hill Community Centre and Connect and Age Well Leads, supported by multiple organisations including Suffolk GP Federation, NHS Health Checks, Warm Homes Healthy People, Ipswich Borough Council, Citizens Advice Ipswich, NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board, East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Family Carers, Wellbeing Suffolk, SPOT Wellbeing and Shaftesbury.
The bottom line: This free community event offers Ipswich residents practical support and guidance to help them stay healthy, safe and financially secure during the challenging winter months ahead.
