We would like to invite you to a public information session facilitated by the Public Health Agency on the Department of Health’s draft Being Open Framework document which is currently out for public consultation. We want your feedback and to address any queries you might have with the Framework document. Please register your interest below. Please note: It is important that you review the draft document in advance of the session. The draft document and online consultation can be accessed here . Session details: The 90 minute online session will take place via Zoom on Thursday, 13 March from

A large-scale representative sample of the Northern Ireland general population completed the 2024/25 Mental Health Survey , providing important insights into their attitudes and behaviours relating to mental health and suicide. Findings are presented in four reports covering issues of: preventing mental ill health, mental health related stigma, training and intervening when someone is in crisis and help-seeking. The findings are published in four papers available below: Report 1 Preventing mental ill health MH Survey 2023.24 Report 2 Stigma MH Survey 2023.24 Report 3 Preparedness to intervene

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is highlighting the importance of having conversations about our true feelings in a campaign that shows people that ‘Talking really helps’. The campaign aims to encourage anyone with feelings of anxiety or distress, or who is in crisis, to start the conversation about their thoughts and feelings. The ‘Talking really helps’ campaign shows people putting on a brave face when talking to others but then reveals their true feelings when they are on their own and that they are not fine or they are struggling to cope. The messages then show how through speaking to

Sunscreen is one holiday essential that often gets left behind when people pack for a winter holiday, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are reminding people not to forget their sunscreen when packing for their winter getaway. Dr Louise Herron, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Whether you are heading to the ski slopes or jetting off for some winter sun, it is important to stay safe in the sun during your break. It’s easy to associate winter with frostbite and windburn, but UV rays can be every bit as damaging for winter sun seekers. It is

The theme of this year’s Sexual Health Week campaign (10-16 February) is having open conversations and the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people to do just that. Good sexual health is about having safe, positive and respectful experiences and relationships throughout life. To do this, we all need to be able to have open, age appropriate conversations. Talking about sex and sexual wellbeing can help establish healthy relationships due to the confidence that comes from being informed. Speaking about issues such as consent, choice and respect, health and wellbeing can help people

This World Cancer Day on Tuesday 4 February, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people to take notice of their bodies and contact their GP if they feel something isn’t right. Dr Louise Herron, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Everyone knows what feels ‘normal’ for them and it’s important to be aware of any changes in your body, but there are some common changes and symptoms to look out for and act on. Being aware of the general signs and symptoms of cancer can help in early detection and increase your chance of survival. “Cancer is a common condition. It is

Community pharmacies across Northern Ireland are providing advice and support to help people look after their mental health in a new campaign. Running throughout February and March, the “Look after your mental health” campaign is part of the Living Well initiative, a partnership between the Public Health Agency (PHA), Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI) and the Department of Health (DoH), providing public health advice in over 500 pharmacies. The campaign highlights the importance of small daily actions to benefit your mental health and wellbeing, being aware of any signs of problems, and using self

During the live 12 week consultation period for the Public Health Agency (PHA) Draft Corporate Plan 2025-2030 and following on from two successful in-person collaboration events, we are holding one further online session for those who have been unable to attend but would like to participate. Details of the online stakeholder consultation event is as follows: Date: Thursday 06 February 2025 Time: 12.30pm to 2.00pm Venue: Online – link will be issued to those registered in due course This draft Plan sets out the strategic direction for the PHA for the next five years in terms of what we will do