A new booklet which dispels a number of myths about alcohol, drugs and older people has been published. The 20-page booklet ‘Alcohol, drugs and older people’ has been produced by the Public Health Agency (PHA) in partnership with the Belfast Health Development Unit (BHDU), Addiction NI and Drink Think. Alcohol and drugs misuse amongst older people is often hidden and the booklet is aimed at those who are worried about their intake.

With the onset of the good weather and two May bank holidays just around the corner, many families will be thinking about venturing out on day trips.

Although summer has not arrived yet, this weekend is the May bank holiday and the start of camping season. The Public Health Agency, (PHA), is reminding people of the danger of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from leaving lit or smouldering barbecues inside tents or caravans. Many people are already aware that fossil fuels and wood, when burnt without enough oxygen, create high levels of CO. However, the PHA is concerned that campers may not be aware of the risks involved with taking lit or smouldering barbecues inside tents, awnings or caravans.

“Making our venues accessible for all visitors and residents of this City would be a major legacy of City of Culture 2013.” - Mayor of Derry Cllr. Kevin Campbell was speaking at the launch of the Change a Little Change a Lot Accessibility Awards, which aims to engage 30 venues hosting events as part of the UK City of Culture programme.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is marking European Immunisation Week (22–27 April 2013) by urging parents to ensure their child gets the best start in life by receiving all their childhood immunisations, particularly emphasising the importance of MMR. Recent events in Wales have reminded us of both how infectious measles is and of how serious it can be.

£200k available to increase access to physical activity across the city Schools, workplaces and community groups in the Belfast area are being urged to ‘get moving’ to secure part of £200,000 funding being made available to increase access to physical activity and promote its health benefits.

The MARA project aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people living in rural areas throughout Northern Ireland, where the hidden nature of poverty and isolation can make it difficult to connect with the most vulnerable members of our community.