The Public Health Agency (PHA) is welcoming public health leaders from England and the Republic of Ireland as they embark on an eight-day ‘Cities of Culture’ cycling challenge. Last year, the cycling team visited Belfast to see the PHA’s cycling initiatives and this time round they’ll be visiting Derry/Londonderry, Enniskillen and Armagh before cycling on to Kells, Co Meath and then Dublin. From there, the cyclists will sail to Liverpool and then cycle to Hull.

Belfast doctors, nurses and scientists are set to receive a major cash boost for pioneering research into cancer. Leading charity Cancer Research UK and the HSC Research and Development Division of the Public Health Agency (HSC R&D) plan to jointly invest around £1.3 million over the next five years in ground-breaking work at the Belfast Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre (ECMC).

International Clinical Trials Day helps to raise awareness of the benefits of research. Each year, on International Clinical Trials Day (ICTD), HSC R&D Division and its HSC partners highlight that it’s ‘ OK to ask’ about clinical research.

A new regional integrated health and social care service working directly in mainstream primary schools supporting children has been launched today (Thursday 18 May). ‘RISE’ (Regional Integrated Support for Education) will enable staff from the health and social care and education sectors to work closely together to help children access learning and enhance their development to reach their full potential.

‘Let’s unite against dementia’ is the message from health and social care professionals during Dementia Awareness Week 2016 (14-20 May). The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) are working jointly with the Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia NI and Health and Social Care Trusts to promote a culture which ensures people with dementia are supported to live with dignity and without stigma.

This week (15-19 May) is Walk to School Week and the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone to get more active by leaving the car at home and walking the school run. Statistics show just over three-fifths (61%) of primary school pupils are driven to or from school by car, while less than a third – only 29% – walk. For post primary, 30% of pupils are driven by car and 18% walk.

In Northern Ireland in a typical week, two people die as a result of home accidents. In addition to these deaths, there are approximately 17,000 admissions to hospital each year as a result of unintentional injuries. However, accidents can easily be prevented by being aware of the dangers and hazards that are present in the home environment and taking steps to minimise the risks. At this year’s Balmoral Show (10–13 May 2017) the Public Health Agency (PHA) in association with local councils in Northern Ireland are hosting a stand to raise awareness of home accident prevention.