HEALTH NOTES
more HELP for new mothers
In a rare bit of good news for our much-loved NHS, new mums are getting more round-the-clock support. a pilot scheme has been launched which will help 20,000 mums get advice on everything from labour and breastfeeding to sleep. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “The days and weeks before and after the birth of your child are among the most precious in your life, and while it is an exciting time, it can also seem overwhelming.” Women can get advice over the phone 24 hours a day from the Surrey Heartlands Pregnancy advice Line, which will also free up midwives’ time to deliver face-to-face care.
Lonely? stick THE radio on
WITH Britain facing a loneliness epidemic, research shows listening to the radio could help. It has been found to be more trusted than TV and social media. Polling by media organisation Pure shows 72% of listeners would follow a presenter to a new radio station. Psychologist Linda Papadopoulos (pictured) said: “There is something about the familiar voice that you can listen to across different locations that makes it personal.”
cannabis-based products for Alzheimer’s sufferers
Dementia sufferers could benefit from using cannabisbased products to reduce the agitation the disease causes. alzheimer’s Research UK is funding a £300,000 trial into whether the drug Sativex – a cannabis-based mouth spray – can help to ease symptoms. as well as memory loss, the condition can spur aggression. Some 850,000 people in the UK currently have dementia.