Feeling the winter blues? A new campaign in Cornwall is stepping up to help residents stay healthy and happy throughout the colder months! The National Health Service (NHS) in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has launched a proactive initiative, spotlighting 'winter wellbeing everyday champions' to showcase how friends, family, and the community can support each other in managing long-term conditions and staying well.
This campaign isn't just about awareness; it's about action. NHS leaders are strongly urging everyone eligible to get their winter vaccines, including those for the flu, COVID-19, RSV, pneumococcal disease, and shingles.
One of the stars of the campaign, Paul Sweet, who lives with diabetes, shared his perspective: "Living with diabetes means I need to look after myself, especially over the festive period. If we look after ourselves then hopefully further along we can help the NHS." This highlights a key aspect of the campaign: empowering individuals to take control of their health.
The campaign offers practical guidance on staying warm, protecting mental health, and staying connected and active. But here's where it gets interesting... Aisling Crombie, NHS Cornwall's director of nursing, explained that the campaign features five films (available on YouTube) created by individuals with long-term health conditions, sharing their personal experiences and advice.
"For our 2025/26 winter campaign, we're reaching out to our local communities asking them to share practical, easy to follow advice," she said. These films offer valuable tips on managing diabetes, lung, and heart conditions, helping people take charge of their own health and wellbeing. Clare Dawe, who has lived with Type 1 diabetes for 15 years, emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge: "Over the years I've learned to live a way of life that I know works for people with my condition. So it's nice to be able to share it, because looking after your own health is important but so is keeping an eye on the people around you."
Dr. Tom Hackett, a GP partner at Penryn Surgery, emphasized the crucial role of community: "Our communities play a vital role in helping local people stay healthy and well. Across Cornwall, a network of community hubs is offering support, connection, and practical help that makes a real difference long before someone might need NHS care." And this is the part most people miss... The campaign highlights the importance of community support networks, such as community hubs, in providing practical help and fostering connections.
Controversy & Comment Hooks: What do you think about the role of community in healthcare? Do you agree that individuals with long-term conditions are best suited to provide advice and support? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
