Advice and Information

Falls Prevention Week is a chance to remind ourselves that a fall doesn’t have to mean giving up the things we love. From staying active and maintaining strength and balance to making small changes at home, there are simple steps that can help people stay steady, confident and independent for longer. And if you’re worried about falling, or have already had a fall, local support and advice is available.

We often don’t think about our health until something feels wrong. But conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes can develop without obvious symptoms.

That’s why, if you’re aged between 40 and 74, it’s worth taking advantage of your free NHS Health Check.

The NHS Health Check is designed to spot potential health risks early and give you practical, personalised advice to help you stay well. It usually only takes around 20 to 30 minutes – a small amount of time that could make an important difference to your future health.

Residents across Northamptonshire are being encouraged to take advantage of free NHS vaccinations available in local communities throughout September, with the Roving Healthcare Unit visiting a number of towns, parks and community events.

The mobile service is designed to make vaccination easier and more convenient by bringing NHS healthcare professionals directly into communities. No appointment is necessary – eligible residents can simply turn up.

Adult Social Care (ASC) in North Northamptonshire supports adults who need help to live safely, independently, and with dignity. Despite this, there are still common misunderstandings about who ASC is for and when people should get in touch.

This article aims to clarify what ASC does, who it is for, and how it can help—whether someone needs short-term advice, longer-term support, or simply guidance about what services are available.

Prescription Prepayment Certificates (PPCs) are an NHS scheme designed to help people in England reduce the cost of prescription charges. They are particularly useful for people who need regular medication, as they allow unlimited NHS prescriptions for a fixed price over a set period.

For many people, a PPC can offer significant savings compared to paying for each prescription item individually.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in the UK, although it can also affect men. Increased awareness, regular self-checks, and early diagnosis all play an important role in improving treatment outcomes and saving lives.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of breast cancer can help people feel more confident about recognising changes in their bodies and seeking medical advice when needed.

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence among older adults, but many falls can be prevented with the right support, information, and simple changes at home. Across the UK, around one in three adults over the age of 65 experiences a fall each year, with the risk increasing as people get older.

While a fall can sometimes result in physical injury, it can also have a significant impact on confidence, mobility, and emotional wellbeing. Many people begin to feel anxious about moving around independently after experiencing a fall, which can lead to reduced activity levels and increased isolation. However, there are practical steps people can take to reduce their risk and continue living safely and independently.

Health officials and weather forecasters are urging people across Northamptonshire to take extra care during the late May Bank Holiday weekend, with temperatures forecast to climb into the high 20s and low 30s Celsius over several days. The Met Office has warned that parts of England could experience the hottest days of the year so far, while the UK Health Security Agency and the National Health Service have issued advice to help people stay safe in the heat.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men in the UK. Around 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with the condition during their lifetime, with risk increasing as people get older. While many cases develop slowly, early awareness of symptoms and knowing when to seek medical advice can make a significant difference.

As an independent health and care champion, Healthwatch North Northamptonshire encourages people to feel confident seeking information, speaking to healthcare professionals, and accessing support when they have concerns about their health.

Staying well isn’t just about treating illness—it’s about preventing it. An NHS Health Check is a simple, free way to understand your health and reduce your risk of serious conditions before they develop.

If you’re aged 40 to 74 and don’t already have certain long-term health conditions, this check could provide valuable insight into your future health—and practical steps to protect it.

Knowing where to go when you need medical help can make a real difference—not only to your own care, but also to how quickly emergency services can respond to those in greatest need. Choosing the right service helps you get the right treatment faster and ensures that critical resources are available for life-threatening situations.

This guide explains when to use NHS 111, when to visit Corby Urgent Treatment Centre, and when to go to A&E or call 999.

Residents across North Northamptonshire are being encouraged to take advantage of a wide range of vaccinations now available through a convenient mobile healthcare unit. Designed to make healthcare more accessible, this service offers walk-in appointments at various locations—making it easier than ever to stay protected against serious illnesses.