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.
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
The Kings Fund: Public Satisfaction with NHS and Social Care Hits Record Lows
The latest British Social Attitudes survey reveals that public satisfaction with both the NHS and social care services in the UK has reached unprecedented lows.
- NHS Satisfaction: Only 21% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the NHS, marking the lowest level since the survey began in 1983. Key concerns include long waiting times, staffing shortages, and difficulties accessing services like A&E and dentistry.
- Social Care Satisfaction: Satisfaction with social care services remains at a mere 13%, the lowest ever recorded. Major reasons for dissatisfaction include inadequate pay and working conditions for care workers, insufficient support for unpaid carers, and many individuals not receiving the care they need.
These findings highlight the urgent need for comprehensive reforms and increased investment in both sectors to address the growing concerns of the public.
Read the full report: The King’s Fund
Eating Disorder Bulletin April 2025
The latest Eating Disorder Bulletin is now available to view or download. Some articles are freely accessible, others require an Open Athens account. Please get in touch for support with this: academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.
Stress Awareness Month 2025
April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to reflect on how stress affects our daily lives and what we can do to manage it. While stress is a natural response to challenges, prolonged stress can impact both mental and physical health.
Our library offers a wealth of information on mental well-being. This month, take a moment to check in with yourself and explore ways to build resilience. Small steps toward self-care can make a big difference.
Eating Disorder Bulletin March 2025
The latest Eating Disorder Bulletin is now available to view or download. Some articles are freely accessible, others require an Open Athens account. Please get in touch for support with this: academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.
NHE: Report Highlights Deepening Mental Health Crisis
A recent report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) reveals a significant decline in mental health across England and Wales since the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, over half of the 900,000 increase in disability benefit claims among working-age adults is due to mental health issues. Additionally, ‘deaths of despair’—including those from alcohol, drugs, and suicide—have risen by 24%, resulting in approximately 3,700 additional deaths in 2023 compared to pre-pandemic levels. The report also highlights a 36% increase in individuals accessing NHS mental health services since 2019, with antidepressant prescriptions up by 12%.
Read the full article: National Health Executive
The King’s Fund: Understanding the Health of Ethnic Minority Women in England
The King’s Fund’s recent report delves into the health disparities experienced by women from ethnic minority groups in England. It reveals that while some groups have lower overall mortality rates than their White British counterparts, they face higher incidences of certain preventable conditions and maternal mortality. Factors such as socio-economic status, cultural assimilation, and structural racism contribute to these inequalities. The report emphasizes the need for culturally competent healthcare services and targeted policies to address these disparities.
Read the full report: The King’s Fund
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!
The King’s Fund: Workforce Wellbeing
Community health staff play a crucial role, but their wellbeing often goes unnoticed. The King’s Fund highlights why better support is needed to help them continue their vital work.
Read more: The King’s Fund