Category: Quality of Life

Cochrane Review: Music-Based Interventions for Dementia Show Modest Benefits

A recent Cochrane review evaluated the effects of music-based therapeutic interventions on individuals with dementia. Analysing data from 30 studies involving 1,720 participants, the review found that, compared to usual care, music-based interventions probably lead to slight improvements in depressive symptoms and may reduce overall behavioural problems. However, evidence regarding benefits for agitation, emotional well-being, cognition, and long-term effects remains limited or uncertain.

These findings suggest that while music therapy can offer some benefits for people with dementia, further high-quality research is needed to fully understand its impact.

Read the full review: Cochrane Library – Music-Based Therapeutic Interventions for People with Dementia

Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week (12–18 May 2025) focuses on community—a reminder that connection, support, and belonging are essential for good mental health. Being part of a strong, supportive community helps us feel safe, valued, and less alone.

The week encourages open conversations about mental health, reduces stigma, and promotes resources to support wellbeing. It’s a great time to reflect on how we can strengthen the connections around us and be there for one another.

Learn more and get involved:
mentalhealth.org.uk
mentalhealth-uk.org

The Role of Social Prescribing Interventions in Addressing Health Inequalities in the United Kingdom: A Narrative Review.

SP is important in addressing health inequalities, particularly by targeting sociopsychological factors and managing long-term conditions. However, the complexity of these inequalities requires more tailored models and research. None of the studies examined SP within NHS National Health Inequalities framework such as Core20PLUS5. Overcoming barriers such as resource limitations, training gaps and accessibility challenges, while strengthening link-worker relationships, is essential.

Health Social Care in the Community – 2025 – Melam – The Role of Social Prescribing Interventions in Addressing HealthDownload

A Roadmap to a Smokefree Country: New Report Calls for Bold Action

The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Smoking and Health has released its 2025 report, A Roadmap to a Smokefree Country, outlining urgent steps to end smoking in the UK within a generation. Central to the plan is a proposed ‘polluter pays’ levy on tobacco companies, aiming to raise £700 million annually to fund cessation programs and reduce health inequalities. The report also recommends stricter regulations on youth vaping and a cap on tobacco industry profits. With smoking remaining a leading cause of preventable illness and death, the report urges all political parties to commit to a fully funded, long-term strategy to make smoking obsolete.

Read the full report: A Roadmap to a Smokefree Country – APPG on Smoking and Health

New Books for Our Teenage Collection!

Looking for something fresh to read? We’ve just added some fantastic new books to our Teenage Collection! Whether you need advice on mental health, body image, social media, or identity, these books have got you covered. From Being You: The Body Image Book for Boys to Social Anxiety Relief for Teens, there’s something for everyone.

Come check them out at the library!

Public Health and Population Health: Leading Together – The King’s Fund

This report, supported by The Health Foundation, examines the increased need for strong, effective leadership in public health and population health, and how the two remits can work cohesively together for the health of their populations. It offers key recommendations for national leaders, including the need for a clearer framework for population health and public health leaders to operate in, and a number of principles for local systems drawn from our findings from local good practice and wider insight.

Public Health And Population Health: Leading Together | The King’s Fund (kingsfund.org.uk)

National Bereaved Parents Day

Today, on National Bereaved Parents Day, we honour and remember parents who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a child. This day serves as a reminder of their strength and the importance of offering support and understanding. Our library offers a quiet space for reflection and a selection of resources to help navigate this difficult journey.

Learning Disability Week 2024

Learning Disability Week 2024 is a time to celebrate, educate, and advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with learning disabilities. This year’s theme, “Do you see me?” is about challenging the barriers people with a learning disability face.

This week offers an opportunity to break down barriers, share stories of resilience, and promote understanding. By raising awareness, promoting inclusive education and workplaces, and supporting advocacy, we can create a world where everyone feels valued and included.

Let’s use Learning Disability Week 2024 to foster positive change and greater understanding. Together, we can make a difference.

Learning Disability Week 2024 | Mencap

MEN’S HEALTH WEEK 2024

As we approach Father’s Day, Men’s Health Week is a perfect time to focus on men’s physical and mental health. Too often, men avoid discussing health issues, leading to overlooked problems like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Encouraging open conversations about health can lead to early detection and better overall well-being. Simple questions like “When was your last check-up?” can start important dialogues.

This Men’s Health Week, let’s break the silence. Talking about physical and mental health can lead to longer, healthier lives for men everywhere.

We need to share our stories | Men’s Health Forum (menshealthforum.org.uk)

Enhancing Lives Through Knowledge: Our New Dementia Collection

We are thrilled to announce the addition of a comprehensive Dementia Collection to our library! This new resource is designed to support individuals, families, and caregivers who are navigating the challenges of dementia.

What You Can Find in Our Dementia Collection:

Educational Books and Guides: Learn about the latest research, treatment options, and caregiving strategies from leading experts in the field.

Personal Stories and Memoirs: Gain insight and empathy through the experiences of those living with dementia and their loved ones.

Activity Resources: Discover activities and programs tailored to engage and support cognitive function for individuals with dementia.

Support Resources for Caregivers: Find practical advice and emotional support to help caregivers manage their responsibilities and well-being.

Visit our library today and start discovering these vital resources. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those touched by dementia.