New year, new challenges
You hear it every year, but now is the time to make those resolutions and stick to them! What are your aims for January? To eat better? Exercise more? Cut down on screen time? Putting yourself first and prioritising your wellbeing will set you on the right path as we go into 2026
Setting yourself small, manageable goals can help you achieve more. Here are some hints to help you stick to your resolutions: https://practiceindex.co.uk/gp/blog/new-year-resolutions-for-managers/
Walk Your Dog Month
After you get home from a long day at work, it can be a challenge to want to head back out into the cold to walk your dog, but exercise is essential for both you and your four-legged friend.
Exercise is vital for your dog to maintain their weight, look after their joint health and keep them happy, and the same applies to their owners! Pick up that lead and get out walking this January.
https://www.wuth.nhs.uk/news/latest-news/2025/01/how-daily-dog-walks-can-transform-live/
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem....aking-of-health/dogs-are-good-for-your-health
111 / Signposting
If you or one of your family is in need of medical help but you’d like some guidance on where to seek the right healthcare, visit 111. You’ll find instant access to information covering:
- Any current symptoms or injury
- Dental problems
- Mental health help
- Medicines assistance
- Help with an existing condition
Simply visit https://111.nhs.uk/ or access 111 via the NHS App.
Veganuary
January is the perfect time to try something new, and Veganuary is all about exploring delicious, plant-based meals.
Every change makes a positive impact on animals, the planet and you. Going plant-based can help you lose weight, improve kidney function and lower blood sugar levels while reducing your carbon footprint, deforestation and water pollution. Find some recipe ideas here: https://veganuary.com/recipes/
Mental health
January can be a challenging month – short days, cold weather and the pressure of a new year and finances can take their toll on our mental health.
If you’re finding things tough, you’re not alone. Setting small goals and prioritising your wellbeing can make a big difference. Get outside for regular walks, take up a new hobby or practise mindfulness. Find something that works for you.
Put yourself first this January.
https://wellbeingtrust.org/blogs/ja...the-holidays-to-your-own-personal-well-being/
Dry January
Whether you’ve overindulged during the festive season or you’re simply ready to make a change for your health, January is a great time to reset your relationship with alcohol.
Trying Dry January can have many more benefits that you’d expect – not only will your bank balance see a positive change but your health will thank you! In just 30 days, you’ll find you sleep better, your energy levels and concentration will increase, and by the end of the month, you’ll have reduced your risk of developing cancer.
You can even keep motivated with the free Try Dry® app; download it today: https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january
Why not give an alcohol-free January a try?
https://alcoholchange.org.uk/blog/benefits-of-dry-january-and-when-you-can-expect-to-see-them
Love Your Liver Month
Did you know your liver performs over 500 jobs to keep you alive? So, it’s important to show it some love! When it’s damaged, the liver can repair itself, but only up to a point. Nine out of ten cases of disease could have been prevented. However, people with liver disease often don’t have any symptoms until the disease has progressed and it’s far too late for treatment. So, look after your liver with these top tips:
- Focus on a balanced diet
- Stay hydrated
- Minimise alcohol
- Take the correct dosage of medications
- Ensure safe hygiene to reduce the risk of hepatitis
https://britishlivertrust.org.uk/information-and-support/love-your-liver/
https://britishlivertrust.org.uk/love-your-liver-month/factsheets/
National Obesity Awareness Week, 10th–16th January
National Obesity Awareness Week (NOAW) runs annually in January to raise awareness of the dangers of obesity while educating about managing weight.
Losing weight has many benefits for your health, if you’re currently overweight. Not only will you feel better in yourself, but it may help to reduce the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
While it may seem daunting, making small changes to your diet and lifestyle can really help to lose the pounds. Why not try some of these ideas?
- Swap sugary drinks for water
- Read food labels – choose green choices rather than red
- Choose wholegrain alternatives for bread, cereals and pasta
- Eat five portions of fruit and vegetables daily
- Restrict alcohol intake
Weight loss is always more successful with support. If you don’t want to join a group, share your plan with someone close to you to motivate you on the days when you’re struggling.
https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/lose-weight/
Paget’s Disease Awareness Day, 11th January
Paget’s Disease Awareness Day, on 11th January, is a chance to raise awareness of Paget’s disease and show support for those affected. Learning more about it can help improve earlier diagnosis, which in turn will reduce the pain, anxiety and distress.
This year, the focus of the campaign is on the pain of Paget’s – and it’s a pain like no other. https://paget.org.uk/pagets-awareness-day-2026/
STIQ Day, 14th January
STIQ Day takes place on 14th January – a date chosen because many common STIs, such as chlamydia, can take around two weeks to show up on a test. If the festive season included unprotected sex, now is a good time to think about getting tested and looking after your sexual health.
Many STIs can exist without showing any symptoms or may be mistaken for something else. Regular testing is important for your health and those you’re intimate with, and in most locations, you’ll be able to access free testing.
Samaritans’ Brew Monday, 20th January
The third Monday in January is often termed ‘Blue Monday’, but we’re putting on the kettle and turning it into ‘Brew Monday’!
There’s nothing better than a cuppa and a chat to lift your spirits. Samaritans’ Brew Monday encourages us to take a moment to check on each other, particularly during the cold, darker days which can lead to feeling low.
It’s a simple reminder that looking out for others can make a big difference.
Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, 22nd–28th January
During Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, we’re encouraging women and people with a cervix to attend their cervical screening appointment – it really does save lives. Cervical screening is a free health test that can prevent up to 75% of cervical cancers and is estimated to save around 5,000 lives every year.
While it can sometimes feel worrying, understanding what to expect during your appointment can help to put you at ease and make attending easier. The test itself usually takes less than five minutes. While it may feel briefly uncomfortable, it’s an important check that could save your life. If you’re due, book your test today.