The Public Health Agency (PHA) has today set out the next steps in the process for developing and tendering the Lifeline crisis response service, following the decision by the Department of Health to approve plans for its future. Lifeline is Northern Ireland’s helpline service for people who are experiencing distress or despair, funded under Protect Life, the Suicide Prevention Strategy.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) are expanding the successful 10,000 Voices health service improvement programme. Having reached the landmark target of 10,000 views on how health and social care is delivered in Northern Ireland, the programme is building on that success and seeking 10,000 More Voices.

The dangers of belly fat are being highlighted during Men’s Health Week (12-18 June) as the Public Health Agency (PHA) encourages men to think about the size of their waistline. Having a waistline of 37 inches or more for a man can put you at greater risk of developing heart disease, some cancers and type 2 diabetes. Caroline Bloomfield, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Senior Manager at the PHA, said: “Whether you’re a man or a woman, your health could be at greater risk if you’re storing a lot of fat around your waist.

During Carers Week 2017 (12-18 June) the Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board are highlighting some helpful tips for carers of a loved one who is living with a dementia: Don’t forget about number one … When caring for someone don’t forget about your own needs, make sure to take some time out, have a short break, meet with friends and treat yourself. How can you look after others if you don’t look after yourself? Take a helping hand …

Accidents are the main cause of death for children post-infancy, with many occurring in the home. During Child Safety Week (5- 11 June) the Public Health Agency (PHA) is highlighting steps to make your home as safe as possible. Hilary Johnston, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Manager with the PHA, said: “None of us wants to think about anything bad happening to our children, so it is important that we don’t ignore the risks but take steps to reduce the likelihood of children having an accident around the home.

Many people will be looking forward to the bank holiday this weekend [Monday 29 May] and with good weather expected the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are urging people to have fun outdoors, but are reminding them to take care in the sun. Dr Miriam McCarthy, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the PHA, explained: “Being active and having fun outside is good for our health. It improves our moods, allows us to get more active and provides vitamin D.