We believe that there is a bright future for Goole, and we know how passionate the people of Goole are about the hospital and the care they receive in their town.

That’s why, we will be speaking to as many people as we can over the next few months; members of the community and staff about what they think the future of health and care services in Goole should look like.

Goole hospital is here to stay.

We want to make sure that we make the best use of the hospital space, staff skills and get the most out of the funding we have, to deliver the best care possible. We will also be planning for investment into the site and facilities so that care is available in the right place, delivered by the right person and at the right time.

We want to work together and write the next chapter together.

As in any area, there are challenges that are unique to each place and that’s why we need to speak to as many people as we can to understand what those challenges are and come up with plans to help people get the care they need.

We understand that things like travel can be an issue in Goole and the surrounding areas, so we want to work together to understand how we can plan our services in a way that helps people to stay healthy, independent and cared for closer to home.

It’s not just about the hospital, we want to offer more care in the community, including at home. We know that hospital isn’t always the best place to be looked after. Getting the right care to live independently either at home or closer to home often means that people get better quicker or can live their life more comfortably, surrounded by their families and support networks.

Please join the conversation.

We will be hosting a series of public events in Goole. Please come along and join us. This is your opportunity to shape our future plans and help us to write the next chapter. We want to hear about what health care services you value, your thoughts about anything that is missing and your ideas for us to build a healthcare service fit for the challenges of today and the future.

Our first event will be held on Wednesday 28^th May, drop-in between 11am and 3pm at the Courtyard in Goole. We are committed to talking to you and working together and hope you can join us. If you can’t make this one, we will be hosting other events. You can find details of upcoming events on our website.

Following our conversations with you, we will keep you informed throughout the process and welcome your thoughts and feedback at any point by emailing us: hnyicb.engagement@nhs.net

If you are interested and want to stay up to date with what is happening please visit: https://letsgetbetter.co.uk/our-next-chapter-goole-and-district-hospital/

I think I ‘always knew’ I wanted to be a midwife. When I was 11, I spent my summer holidays raising money for the local birth centre to buy some more equipment. Midwifery, pregnancy and birth was something that really interested me, and throughout my teenage years I felt I had a sense of direction that I would pursue it as a career path.

Becoming a student midwife was the biggest challenge of my life, developing as a person and as a professional at the age of 20, but I had a fantastic experience building up my knowledge base working with incredibly passionate, dedicated and supportive mentors. I completed my training in 2014, and post-qualification I worked rotationally on each of the inpatient wards, before starting a secondment within the Children’s Safeguarding Team in 2019. Here I developed my knowledge and confidence of multidisciplinary working with social care, and supporting colleagues with their safeguarding queries and concerns.

Following maternity leave with my first child, I joined a Continuity of Care team. This was incredibly rewarding being able to hold a small caseload and get to know the families under your care well, but it became difficult to balance alongside family life. After 12 months within a fantastic team, I decided to return to the community, where I continue to work now alongside my most recent position within the Local Maternity and Neonatal System in the ICB.

As part of the Ask A Midwife project we provide a form of digital support for pregnant women and their families, answering non-urgent queries and signposting to relevant support and services. We also disseminate public health information through social media posts and attend face to face promotional events such as the monthly HEYBABY Carousel event at Women and Children’s Hospital in Hull. In October 2024, we were awarded a RCM Award for Outstanding Contribution to Maternity Services: Digital, and we are hoping to support in the expansion of the project in other areas. 

I enjoy being involved in the development of personalised maternity care. Being a mother of young children myself, I recognise the importance of feeling listened to when it comes to advocating for ourselves during what can be a vulnerable time in our lives. My hope is that within my job roles I can empower women to make informed choices and feel supported during their episode of maternity care. 

To celebrate this years Social Work Week, Rachael Sharp, Designated Professional for Safeguarding Adults at NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) reflects on her career in social work over the years.

‘I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a social worker, I wanted to work with people and make a difference, some of this came from a place of wanting equality for people and justice, making sure people had their rights and choices heard. I had some personal experience within my family and witnessing firsthand the role that social workers had empowered me to identify this would be my career path. I am now in year 27 of my health and social care career and would not change a single day!

Leaving school, I went to sixth form completing a GNVQ (General National Vocational Qualification) in Health and Health and Social Care, this heightened my want to become a social worker. At 19 I decided I wanted some work experience and started working within social care settings. Eventually becoming a social work assistant in a child protection team in Hull.

A few years later I was lucky enough for my employer to financially support me to undertake my social work degree which I completed in 2011. I have worked across various sectors in my social care career including Children Social Care, Domestic Abuse Services, Adults Social Care, Mental Health and Safeguarding.

I became an Approved Mental Health Practitioner in 2015, this was my most challenging role to date, both work demand and supporting those in mental health crisis. Having gained insight in working alongside health colleagues during this role, initiated my curiosity of working in a health provider alongside other professions supporting individuals holistically, applying the social care model in a world of medically driven interventions, I found this rewarding and challenging.

The best part of being a social worker is having the privilege of working with people often at a time of crisis but being able to listen, support and empower them through the most difficult times. I love hearing people’s stories, memories and experiences, I could sit for hours listening and supporting and providing choice to people to make their lives more empowered, enabling them to maintain independence. I have met some amazingly resilient individuals who have inspired me in my own life and made me the social worker I am today.

I am now working in safeguarding within an Integrated Care Board, although I do not get to work front line, I use my experience to inform my input and involvement in strategic decision making. It remains a privilege working for the NHS alongside so many dedicated, experienced and passionate colleagues with the aim of wanting to make things better.

My social worker career so far has not disappointed, its challenging, rewarding, empowering and enriching, I would advocate anyone who is thinking about a social care career to do it!’

Our lives can be busy and stressful, with our mental health and wellbeing often coming last. The simple action of reading a few pages from our favourite book can help reduce stress and improve our wellbeing.

Nick, from The Rabbit Hole independent bookshop in Brigg, explains why reading for wellbeing is so important:

“We see reading books as a link between physical exercise and mental exercise. The kinaesthetic process of holding the book and turning the pages is relaxing and requires thought and interaction. The whole process is part of committing to that activity, relaxing and taking in what you are reading.”

In fact, researchers at the University of Sussex found that reading for just 6 minutes a day can reduce stress levels by 68%. This makes reading it more relaxing than listening to music, playing video games or having a cup of tea!

“Reading helps take you away from the daily routine and transport you and your feelings elsewhere, even if only for a few minutes or an hour. You are where the book takes you. The look, feel, smell and texture of a book can help focus the mind. Reading allows you to enter a new world away from the stresses and strains you are feeling and experiencing.”

Researchers have conducted several studies in recent years on reading to deal with grief, chronic pain, and as an alternative to mental health therapy, showing a correlation between reading and improved health and wellbeing.

“In the past, as a referral unit teacher, I’ve seen the benefits of reading firsthand. Once the kids plucked up the courage to read and look at books, they would say how it helped them to switch off from the world around them. That’s true for adults too.”

Many independent bookshops are not only known for their well-stocked shelves, but also for their unique position in our community as safe spaces where connections can be made and friendships formed. Lots of bookshops are actively involved in their local community, offering events, activities, book clubs and even spaces to relax and unwind.

“We run The Rabbit Hole as a community shop and have seated areas for people to chat, children’s play areas so parents and carers can bring children in and quite literally ‘have a break’.”

“In Brigg especially we have a flow of ‘regulars’ – both adults and young people – who just need somewhere to chat, meet or ask for advice. We do also cater for some of our community members who find that their children aren’t welcome in other places. They bring their children here to play, sit, read – or in one case line up all our toys carefully through the centre of the shop in very straight lines!”

“We’re proud to work with lots of organisations around mental health and wellbeing. We’ve worked with the police, in schools, and adult support groups and take care to always be fully inclusive.”

Why not take 6 minutes this World Book Day to read a few pages of that book gathering dust on your shelf? Or visit your local independent bookshop and find out more about what they offer.

“Let yourself by transported to a world of adventure, romance or even history, just for a few minutes. Don’t just read when you’re on a sun lounger or confined to a hospital ward, make it a part of your daily life.”

The Rabbit Hole is an independent bookshop in Brigg owned and run by ex-teachers Mel and Nick. Visit their website to discover more about the shop and the host of community events they offer.

Visit the Mental Health support area of our website if you need more wellbeing advice. 

Let’s set the record straight. . . . each year the third Monday of January rolls around, the term “Blue Monday” resurfaces, claiming this day to be the most depressing of the year. But let’s set the record straight: mental health challenges aren’t confined to a single date on the calendar. The notion of Blue Monday was born in 2004 as a marketing gimmick for holiday bookings. It has since been debunked by its creator, Cliff Arnall, who created it. Depression and other mental health conditions are complex, serious, and can affect individuals at any time of year – not just on a day wrapped in myth. Let’s use this opportunity to remind ourselves that mental health awareness is important every day, and support is available year-round.

Key factors of the Blue Monday

• Poor weather conditions and lack of sunlight
• Debt accumulated during Christmas and winter deals
• The time since Christmas and distance remaining until payday
• The low motivation and productivity levels we tend to experience as New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside
• The growing feeling of a need to act

Despite its growing prominence as a calendar date, Blue Monday isn’t backed by scientific research data.

A few ideas to check in with yourself

If you’re feeling isolated or lonely, techniques that boost oxytocin levels can help:

• Practicing self-kindness and self-compassion
• Mindfulness meditation
• Resting and sleeping
• Sending a message expressing gratitude to people you know

Dial up your Dopamine. When we’re down and demotivated, dopamine-boosting techniques can help us overcome low motivational levels.

• Physical exercise, movement, or dancing
• Eating healthy foods that are high in protein and good fats
• Trying something new
• Practicing gratitude
• Celebrating small victories

Wellbeing is not Just for one day – it’s important to remember:

• Our bank accounts may feel drained after the festive season
• Credit cards may be maxed out
• New Year’s resolutions may have already failed
• It’s cold and dark
• The next holiday might seem far away
• Many of us spend more time focusing on the needs of others than on our own

I got a take on “Blue Monday” from Sarah, a Mental Health Practitioner who says . . .

“. . . “Blue Monday” really makes me stop and think. I understand that for many, January can be a challenging time. The previous month may have been busy and expensive, with the next payday seeming so far off, and socialising less often may add to a feeling of isolation. However, labelling this specific day as “Blue Monday” can also contribute to our mood by reinforcing the idea that we should feel sad on this day.

If you tell yourself you’re going to feel low, you’re more likely to experience that and to notice things that reinforce those feelings.

That’s why I encourage you to take a different view. Use this day as an opportunity to focus on your wellbeing. Plan something to look forward to:

• Arrange to meet someone for a chat.
• Go out for some fresh air and exercise.
• Try cooking something new.
• Invest in yourself and your wellbeing.

The key here is planning. When you make a plan, you increase the likelihood that you’ll follow through, giving yourself the chance to boost your mood and create positive experiences.

At the same time, I think it’s important to acknowledge that “Blue Monday” can also be an opportunity to talk about mental health more openly. If you’re struggling, this is a great moment to remind yourself that it’s okay to seek support. Whether through your GP, a mental health charity, or other resources, help is available.

Above all, be kind to yourself – Sarah.”

Introducing ‘Brew Monday’

Samaritans have flipped Blue Monday on its head with Brew Monday. The idea? Make time for a cuppa and a catch-up with someone you care about.
• Date: Monday, 20th January 2025
• Activity: Grab a warm drink – (tea, coffee, or even hot chocolate) and have a chat.

Whether it’s in person, over the phone, or virtual – it’s all about connection.

One last thing . . .

Blue Monday might well be a myth, but feeling down sometimes is real. The trick? Don’t let one day define your mood. Check in with yourself, reach out to others, and remember – spring is just around the corner.

More Info:

Samaritans – Samaritans – Brew Monday
Mental Health Resources for Young People – Mental health
Mental Health and Wellbeing – Mental health and wellbeing – Let’s Get Better

My name is Sarah, and I am a Mental Health Practitioner in North Yorkshire.  I am writing this blog to acknowledge that the Festive period can be projected as a happy time of year however, for many, it can have a significant impact upon their mental health.

There are many reasons as to why Christmas can affect mental health including going through grief from a bereavement, financial worries due to pressure to buy presents for others, and increased socialising with family and friends to name a few.

It can be a very overwhelming time of year and with social media easily accessible, it’s important to look after and prioritise our mental wellbeing. It can be easy to spend time comparing yourself and how you celebrate to others, and participating in doom scrolling. But often, things you will see on social media do not reflect reality.

Here are some tips to help, and that I hope you will consider using, to stay well this Christmas:

• Giving yourself the opportunity to reflect and prioritise the plans you want this Christmas rather than what other people are encouraging you to do. I acknowledge this is not always the easiest thing to do and makes us feel guilty initially if you are to say no. However, you will feel better longer term if you are able to prioritise yourself.
• Be careful with your money. I would encourage you to set a budget and buy within your means. People can feel they should buy others presents and spend money they do not have. Have conversations with those around you and try to be realistic, and honest about money concerns this Christmas; for many you will be helping them as they could also have the same concern.
• Be Prepared. This may include things such as ensuring you won’t run out of medication over Christmas time, due to pharmacies closing on the bank holiday. It may involve trying to keep a routine and plan for the days during the Christmas holidays, including days for rest, as it can be very overwhelming.
• Family. There can be people we will see over the Christmas period that we may not wish to see and cannot avoid that affect our mental health more. It is important that you think about a balance that could work, for example volunteer to do an activity so it can keep you busy or approach those who make you feel safe and have a conversation.
• Honest conversations. These conversations can be with yourself or others. Acknowledging how you feel can be really empowering, it allows you to take control of your mental wellbeing. I know myself that speaking to those who understand me and who listen to how I am feeling gives me the opportunity to feel supported.

The most important message I wish to get across to people this time of year is to be kind and true to yourself. You and I are only human and there is only so much we can do or places we can go. Therefore, think about how to spend your time and what is going to be the best for you and your mental health.

Take care of yourself,

Sarah Godbold
Advanced First Contact Mental Health Practitioner

Norovirus, often called the “winter vomiting bug,” it’s a highly contagious virus that causes stomach and intestinal inflammation, leading to nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps. Although unpleasant, most people recover within a few days with proper care.  

How Norovirus spreads?
Norovirus spreads quickly by direct contact with an infected person and touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth. The virus is airborne and lives in the atmosphere. It’s especially common in crowded environments like schools and care homes and hospitals particularly in winter months.  

So, what are the symptoms?  
Symptoms appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last roughly 1 – 3 days.
Common signs include:  

• Nausea and vomiting  
• Diarrhoea  
• Stomach cramps  
• Low-grade fever, headache, and fatigue  

How to treat?
There’s no specific medication for norovirus although over the counter medicines can help alleviate symptoms. The following can help manage the virus:

Stay hydrated
Drink water, broths, or oral rehydration solutions. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks. 
Eat bland foods until well enough to gradually introduce foods like crackers, rice, and bananas.

Rest
Allow your body to recover and use over the counter medications to suppress symptoms.

We caught up with Dr Billingsley for his top three tips to protect yourself from the virus.

Bathroom hygiene
It’s a good habit to always close the toilet lid when flushing. Without closing the lid can release tiny droplets, into the air. These can carry germs and viruses, which then settle on surfaces such as sinks, taps, light switches, and door handles. Closing the lid before flushing significantly reduces the spread of these airborne particles.

Sanitise surfaces
As you can imagine bathrooms can become hotspots for germs if not regularly cleaned. Make it a habit to sanitise frequently touched surfaces like taps, sinks, switches and toilet bowls. Doing this after use can prevent the buildup and spread of bacteria and viruses, creating a safer environment for everyone.

Hand hygiene
Keeping on top of hand hygiene is your first line of defence against illness. After using the bathroom, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

When to Seek Help?
Consult a doctor if you experience severe vomiting or diarrhoea, signs of dehydration, blood in stool, or high fever.   All in all, Norovirus is unpleasant but manageable. Stay hydrated, rest, and take precautions to prevent its spread by practicing good hygiene to recover and help protect others from this unpleasant virus. Adopting simple steps but effective practices, you can create a healthier and more hygienic space while minimising the risk of spreading infections.

Fellas, we need to talk about mental health. Or do we?

Improving your mental health doesn’t always require you to spill the beans to someone about how you’re feeling. In our recently developed mental fitness programme for men in the workplace, we use an approach called Behavioural Activation to provide simple, evidence-based ways to improve mental wellbeing through actions instead of words.

What Is Behavioural Activation (BA)?

BA focuses on identifying and engaging in activities that bring purpose or enjoyment. These actions disrupt cycles of inactivity, isolation, and negative thoughts. It’s not about waiting to feel motivated—it’s about setting goals to do activities first and letting positive feelings follow.

Men may not always spot the signs they’re beginning to struggle with their mental health because they’re more likely to experience things like irritability, anger, over working, or withdrawing from people and activities. If you recognise that you’re starting to feel like this more frequently, try taking some of the simple actions below to get things back on track.

Start small: the power of simple actions

BA works because it breaks tasks into manageable steps. Men often find it appealing because it is practical and focuses on setting goals and taking actions, rather than just talking. Here’s five examples of how you can apply BA principles in everyday life.

1. Make time for fun

Men often overlook the value of fun and relaxation for mental health. Life can become all work and no play. It sounds obvious, but research shows that regularly planning fun activities can reduce stress and improve mood.

Action plan ideas:

• Set aside 30 minutes each week for a favourite hobby like gaming or building something.
• Spend an evening watching your favourite TV show or listening to music you love.
• Schedule a “tech-free” evening to unwind with a book, music, or time outdoors.

2. Physical health

Exercise clears your head and lifts your mood. Even short walks can make a big difference. You don’t need a gym.

Action plan ideas:

• Take a walk around your local area or park twice a week. Leave the phone at home.
• Do 10 press ups after waking up or during the adverts on TV.
• Sign up for a low-pressure, no commitment group activity like a recreational 5-a-side league or social run club.

3. Spend time with people who matter

Good company is good for your mental health. Spending time with mates can ease stress and remind you you’re not alone.

Action plan ideas:

• Call or text a mate once a week, even if it’s just a quick “how’s things?”.
• Plan a meet-up for a coffee, curry, or a game of cards, darts, or pool.
• Set a recurring time for family dinners or game nights.

4. Work-life balance

Work stress can pile up fast. You can’t always change the job, but you can protect your time and energy.

Action plan ideas:

• Set a strict “no work emails” rule after 8pm (or a time that works for you / your work day).
• Take a 5-minute break every hour to stretch, grab some water, or breathe.
• Dedicate one evening a week to a hobby or personal project.

5. New challenges

Taking part in meaningful activities or learning something new can boost self-esteem and mental clarity. It can also give life a stronger sense of direction.

Action plan ideas:

• Take on a small challenge that’s been nagging away at you, like organising a cluttered drawer.
• Try a new skill—watch a YouTube tutorial or fix a household item.
• Volunteer for a cause you care about, even if it’s just giving a neighbour a hand.

Why it works

These small, intentional actions increase engagement with life. Over time, they can reduce the power of negative thoughts and build momentum for positive change.

Don’t feel motivated? That’s normal. Start with the easiest task on your list. Behavioural Activation is about acting despite how you feel. In our workplace programme for men, we talk about “following the action plan, not your mood”. Mental health isn’t about being perfect, every small step forward counts. Begin with one action from your list. Stick with it for a week. See how you feel. Over time, these small efforts create lasting change.

• Layer up with warm clothing: One of the simplest ways to stay warm is to layer up. Thermal layers are best, but if you don’t have any, multiple thin layers will work just as well. Lots of thin layers are much better than one thick layer!
• Invest in a quality winter blanket: A cosy blanket is brilliant for while you’re at home. Look for materials like fleece, wool, or down. For maximum warmth you could invest in a heated underblanket or throw.  There are lots on the market to choose from.
• Use a space heater: If you don’t want to heat your entire home a space heater could be the solution for you. Heat up the rooms you spend most of your time, like your living room or bedroom, and turn it off when you don’t need it.
• Heat your main living space to at least 18°C (65°F): Sitting or sleeping in a cold room isn’t just uncomfortable it can be bad for your health. Aim to heat your home, especially your main living space, to at least 18°C (65°F).
• Seal gaps and draughts: Cold air sneaks in through windows, doors, and gaps in your home’s insulation. Keep warm this winter by sealing draughts or using draught excluders to keep the warm air in and the cold air out.
• Energy efficient comfort: Hot water bottles are an effective and affordable way to keep warm this winter. If you’ve had yours for a while, consider updating it. They do have an expiration date!
• Stay active: Exercise is a natural way to warm up your body. Moving increases circulation and keeps you feeling warm even on the coldest days. Staying active can help maintain health through the winter months, not to mention your mental health and wellbeing too.
• Don’t slip on your slippers: A good pair of cosy slippers are essential for keeping warm. Make sure they’re well fitting and have some grip.
• Sip on hot beverages: There’s nothing like a hot cup of tea or coffee (or even hot chocolate) to warm you from the inside out. A hot drink will help boost your body temperature and keep you cosy.
• Combat condensation: As we turn the heating up, we can find our homes are plagued by excess moisture. A dehumidifier helps to balance the moisture levels in your home. They reduce condensation and the likelihood of any mould issues too. There are options available to suit any budget.
• Where a hat, scarf and gloves: a coat just isn’t enough when it comes to cold weather. When you’re outside wear a hat, scarf and gloves to keep off the chill. Our busy lives mean we can forget the most simple things at times, so keep them with your coat or bag ready for when you leave the house.
• Ask for help if you need it: If you need help with warm home funding, visit the local council pages linked on our winter wellness page. 

Meet James, a local firefighter who works hard to protect our community. When he’s not on duty, you’ll often find him at the edge of a peaceful lake with a fishing rod or pole in hand. For James, fishing is much more than a hobby—it’s a way to relax, clear his mind, and feel refreshed. Spending time by the water helps him deal with the stresses of his job and brings him a sense of calm. Let’s look at how fishing, and being outdoors in nature, can be good for us too.

Fishing as Therapy: How It Helps 

James’s job as a firefighter is physically and emotionally demanding. With the pressures he faces on the job, he needs time to unwind and reset. For him, fishing provides that peaceful escape.

“When I’m sitting by the lake, with just the sound of the water, it feels like the world slows down,” James says. “It gives me a chance to clear my head and focus on something simple.” Fishing helps him feel centered, which is something we can all benefit from. Spending time outdoors, especially by water, has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood, offering a natural way to recharge.

Benefits of Being Outdoors Near Water

Time spent outside, especially near lakes, rivers has many health benefits for both body and mind. Here’s why fishing and being near nature can be so good for us:

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Nature has a calming effect, especially water. Studies show that spending time near water can lower stress levels and reduce anxiety often known as blue health. This is the idea that being near or on water provides good benefits to physical and mental health. For James, the sound of the water and the stillness of the lake help him let go of work stress and feel at peace.

2. Boosts Mood and Focus

Being outdoors naturally lifts our spirits. Focusing on something like fishing can also help us practice mindfulness, which keeps our minds in the present moment. This kind of focus can improve mood and make us feel more positive.

3. Improves Physical Health

Fishing might not seem very active, but it actually involves light exercise, from walking around the lake to casting the line. Being outdoors also gives us fresh air and natural sunlight, which boosts vitamin D and strengthens our immune system.

4. Provides a Break from Technology

We’re all connected to screens these days, which can drain our mental energy. Time spent outdoors gives us a break from technology, which helps refresh the mind. When James goes fishing, he often leaves his phone behind, allowing him to fully disconnect and relax.

For James, days spent fishing remind us of how nature can help us feel better. Whether it’s fishing, going for a walk, or simply sitting by the water, spending time outdoors can boost both mental and physical health. 

If you’re looking for an easy way to feel calmer and more balanced, consider spending time in nature. You don’t have to travel far—find a nearby park, lake, or green space, and let yourself enjoy it. Like James, you might find that these simple moments outside can make a big difference.  So next time you need a break, think about stepping outdoors and getting your dose of blue health letting nature work its magic. It could be just what you need to feel recharged and refreshed.