Newsletter
HWB Champions Newsletter 12-11-2026Health Checks 2026 Gallery
Roadshows 2026 Gallery
Help Protect Yourself This Flu Season
Beat the Flu This Winter and Claim a £20 E-Voucher
Health & Wellbeing Champions
Please help us spread the word:
- Encourage colleagues to get vaccinated.
- Share campaign information within your teams.
- Display posters in staff areas where possible.
- Help staff understand how to claim their voucher.
Get Your Flu Vaccination and Receive a £20 E-Voucher
The annual WMAS flu vaccination programme is expected to commence in September.
Why get vaccinated?
The flu vaccine helps protect you, your family, your colleagues, and the patients we care for throughout the winter months.
Claim Your £20 E-Voucher
All staff who receive a flu vaccination will be eligible for a £20 e-voucher.
Having Your Vaccination Elsewhere?
If you choose to have your flu vaccination at your GP surgery or another healthcare provider, you can still claim your £20 e-voucher.
Simply provide evidence of your vaccination and submit it through the WMAS process once details are released.
Protect yourself. Protect others. Get vaccinated this flu season.
Further details on clinic dates, locations and voucher claims will be shared soon.
Andy’s Man Club: Breaking the Stigma Around Men’s Mental Health
Join us for an informative and engaging webinar delivered by Andy Barton, Area Lead for the West Country and South Wales at Andy’s Man Club, a leading men’s mental health charity and peer support network.
During this session, Andy will explore the why, what and how of Andy’s Man Club, including the challenges many men face when struggling with their mental health and the importance of creating safe spaces where conversations can happen openly. The webinar will provide an overview of the charity’s work, how its peer-to-peer support groups operate, and how individuals can access support.
While Andy’s Man Club is focused on supporting men aged 18 and over, this session is open to everyone. Whether you’re looking to learn more for yourself, a partner, family member, friend or colleague, the webinar will offer valuable insight into men’s mental health and the support available within local communities.
There will also be an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about how Andy’s Man Club is helping men across the UK to realise that it’s okay to talk.
Click HERE to register now
Have you Explored Qwell Yet?
Qwell is your online mental wellbeing community and a place for all of the WMAS workforce to access. Qwell is an anonymous service, providing support to WMAS staff, to give help, guidance and support free of charge. Qwell offers confidential, timely and cost-free access to qualified counsellors and mental health practitioners, without thresholds and without waiting lists. It also has a vast library of self-help articles and podcasts, along with digital tools to help you track your mood, set your personal goals, and keep a private online journal. Staff can explore hundreds of articles on all aspects of mental health and wellbeing too!
Watch an introductory video about Qwell here Improve your mental health | WMAS Wellbeing. To find out more and to register for the site visit the WMAS dedicated login page qwell.io/wmas.
All WMAS staff are invited to take up the offer of a fully funded personal account on Qwell, an online mental wellbeing platform.
- Secure 1-2-1 live text sessions with a qualified mental health professional available
between 12 noon and 10pm.
- A series of online 1-2-1 counselling sessions (if identified as appropriate during initial assessment)
- Access a wealth of wellbeing information, self-help tools, read and contribute to a moderated anonymous peer support forum.
- Accessing Qwell is confidential and no personal information is shared with anyone at WMAS.
- NO REFERRAL REQUIRED – Register now at qwell.io/wmas
The Power of Allyship Webinar
Violence against women and girls is not solely a women’s issue. Creating safer workplaces, communities and public spaces requires everyone to play a part. This session will explore what allyship means in practice, how men can challenge harmful behaviours and attitudes, and the positive impact they can have in driving cultural change.
To Register please scan the QR Code or click here
Men’s Health Essentials Webinar Offers Practical Advice
A webinar, exploring some of the key issues affecting men’s physical and mental wellbeing, will take place next week. The webinar, which will provide practical advice on how to make positive changes to men’s health, will take place on Wednesday (18th November) at 10am on Teams. It will cover a range of important topics, including physical health, nutrition, exercise, mental wellbeing and prostate cancer awareness. The webinar will provide practical advice and useful insights into common men’s health challenges, helping colleagues better understand the importance of looking after their health and recognising potential warning signs. Attendees will also learn about simple, everyday changes that can make a positive difference to long-term wellbeing, alongside ways to support the health of men in their lives. Whether you’re looking to improve your own health or better support a colleague, friend or family member, the session offers an opportunity to build awareness and gain practical advice.
To attend, please click here.
World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day takes place on Saturday (14th November) and aims to raise awareness of diabetes, one of the world’s fastest-growing health challenges. This year’s campaign theme, ‘Early Action on Diabetes’, highlights the importance of recognising risk factors, identifying early warning signs and accessing timely diagnosis and care. Spotting the signs early and managing the condition effectively can help prevent complications and improve long-term health. The main symptoms of diabetes are often remembered as the ‘4 Ts’:
- Toilet: Needing to go for a wee more often than usual, particularly at night.
- Thirsty: Feeling constantly thirsty and drinking more than usual.
- Tired: Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy.
- Thinner: Losing weight without trying to.
Other symptoms can include blurred vision, cuts and wounds taking longer to heal and recurring thrush.
Not everyone will experience symptoms, particularly in the early stages of Type 2 diabetes. If you recognise any of these signs, speak to your GP about getting checked. For WMAS colleagues, World Diabetes Day is a useful reminder of the importance of understanding the condition, both in the patients we care for and when looking after our own health. To find out more about diabetes, the warning signs and this year’s campaign, visit the World Diabetes Day website.
Missed the HWB Roadshows? The Podcast Has Got You Covered!
The latest episode of ‘Behind the Blue Lights’ is now available on Spotify, with a look back at this year’s Health and Wellbeing Roadshows. Communications Officer, Amy Stubbs, is joined by Health and Wellbeing Manager, Manjeet Malhi and Call Assessor, Zoe Watchorn, from the event at Millennium Point to talk about what the events offer staff, from health checks and therapy dogs to massages and advice on looking after your wellbeing. With this year’s roadshows now finished, the episode is a little throwback to the summer and a chance for anyone who missed out to find out what they’re all about and what to look forward to when they return next year! Have a listen on Spotify and make sure you subscribe to ‘Behind the Blue Lights’ to catch future episodes.
Listen to the podcast here!
Kelly Jarvis’ Story
Read more on this here
Movember (Mens Health) Month
So what’s your growmitment?
A Growmitment is your commitment to change men’s health. And here’s how you can make one.
Grow a moustache, Move, Host an event or Mo Your Own Way. Just want to make a donation? That’s totally valid, too.
Hot tip: more fun means more funds. Challenge a friend to do Movember with you — the more fun you have, the more men we help.
Transgender Awareness Week
Each year between November 13 – 19, people and organizations around the country participate in Transgender Awareness Week to help increase understanding about transgender people and the issues members of the community face. Trans Awareness Week takes place the week before Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20. Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), is an annual observance on November 20 that honours the memory of the transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence that year. At a time when transgender people have become targets of extreme political discrimination and violence, it’s imperative that anyone who is interested in and invested in protecting a free society learn the facts about who trans people are, become educated about the realities trans people face, and understand that our collective equality is connected to the safety and freedom of people who are transgender.
Read more about Transgender Awareness Week
Women After Dark
Women After Dark has been created to encourage women and girls to remain active, connected and confident during the darker winter months. The event will bring together women from across Birmingham’s sporting and community networks for an evening of networking, discussion and shared learning.
The event will provide an opportunity to:
- Meet and connect with local women’s sporting groups and organisations.
- Share experiences of participating in sport and physical activity after dark.
- Discuss women’s safety within communities, public spaces and sporting environments.
- Help shape future VAWG and community safety initiatives across Birmingham.
- Learn more about local support, opportunities and resources available to women and girls.
Whether you are already involved in sport, represent a community organisation, or simply want to contribute your views on making Birmingham a safer city for women and girls, we would be delighted to welcome you.
Optima Health Podcast: Men’s Mental Health and the Workplace
Optima Health has released a podcast exploring men’s mental health in the workplace. The discussion highlights the importance of breaking down stigma, encouraging open conversations, and recognising the unique challenges men may face when seeking support.
Whether you’re looking to learn more about mental wellbeing or support a colleague, this podcast offers valuable insights and practical advice.
Keeping PACE
- The sector-wide response as repeated heatwaves push ambulance demand to new highs across the UK
- The new falls resources that support prevention independence and safer recovery.
- The shared learning that drives better ambulance care for sickle cell patients.
- Anna Parry’s personal account of when ambulance colleagues gathered to remember those we have lost at the TASC Memorial Service
- Celebrating progress while driving inclusion across ambulance services via the National Ambulance LGBT+ Network.
You can download Keeping PACE here – and feel free to share with your colleagues and wider networks.
Welcome to November!
As the final quarter of the year begins, it’s a great opportunity to take stock of your finances and make sure you’re on track to achieve your goals before the year ends. Whether you’re looking to build better financial habits, improve your understanding of key financial topics, or gain confidence in your personal finances, the Financial Wellbeing team is here to support you.
Always On Demand Webinars
We know that finding time to attend live sessions isn’t always easy. That’s why our Always On Demand webinar library is available whenever it suits you.
Our recorded sessions cover a wide range of financial wellbeing topics, including:
New to UK (45 minutes) Watch here
Anxious and excited are just some of the emotions you’ll be feeling when making the decision to move abroad. Our ‘New to UK’ session is here to help you settle and supplies an overview of some key areas to think about.
Credit Scoring (30 minutes) Watch here
The concept of a credit score can be tricky to understand, but with our ‘Credit Scoring’ presentation, you’ll be best placed to know how a credit score is put together and what your score means for you.
Tax Optimisation (45 minutes) Watch here
Would you like to feel in control and understand the steps you could take to feel confident about your finances? Learn about the importance of seeking professional tax and financial planning advice, tax allowances, and strategies like tax loss harvesting.
Managing and Growing your Wealth (45 minutes) Watch here
Life is full of possibilities, and you have the potential to achieve your goals and ambitions. Our ‘Managing and Growing your Wealth’ session highlights the opportunities and resources available that could help you build the future you’ve imagined.
Beginners Guide to Investing (30 minutes) Watch here
Before you invest your money, it’s important to invest your time into learning the basics and understanding the risks. Our session helps you navigate the world of investing, from investment advice and considerations to risk appetite and market volatility. Remember, the value of investments can go down as well as up, so you may not get back what you invest. Capital at Risk.
Endometriosis UK Webinar Recording Now Available
Thank you to everyone who joined our recent webinar with Endometriosis UK. If you were unable to attend, or would like to revisit the session, the recording is now available to watch.
The webinar provided valuable insight into endometriosis, including common signs and symptoms, the impact the condition can have on daily life, work and wellbeing, the importance of early recognition, and ways colleagues can support those living with the condition. The session also highlighted the support and resources available through Endometriosis UK.
As part of our commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace, we encourage colleagues to take the opportunity to watch this informative session and increase their understanding of a condition that affects 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth of reproductive age.
Click the here to watch the recording.
Blue Light Card Foundation
Behind every uniform is a person who carries stories they can never fully share, the emergencies answered, the lives saved, and the losses that linger long after a shift ends. These unseen burdens can take a heavy toll. The Blue Light Card Foundation exists to ensure no member of our Blue Light community has to carry the burdon of mental health struggles alone. With your help, they can ensure that the people we and the community trust in our darkest hours, never have to face their own struggles in silence.
The Blue Light Foundation have teamed up with Run for Charity to bring you a vast range of running (and adrenaline!) events across the UK and beyond. Whether you’re lacing up for your first 5K, tackling a half-marathon, or taking the leap with a bungee jump, 100% of the money you raise will help support the mental and physical well-being of our Blue Light community.
How it works
Choose your challenge: From fun runs to world-class marathons, there’s something for everyone.
Sign up using our link: This ensures your place is secured and your fundraising comes directly to us.
Set up your fundraising page: We’ll help you with tips, resources, and cheer you on every step of the way.
For further information go to: Blue Light Card Foundation – Ensure no member of our Blue Light community has to carry that weight alone
WMP Club Member Discounts
Looking for great days out and exclusive savings? The Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 are coming to the West Midlands, and members of the West Midlands Police Club Sports & Wellbeing Association can access heavily discounted tickets for selected events. Discounts include up to 52% off Hybrid Athletics, up to 48% off Wheelchair Basketball, and up to 50% off the Laser Run, with tickets available from as little as £8.00.
Members can also enjoy a range of additional wellbeing and lifestyle benefits, including 20% off with Keela Outdoors, substantial family savings at Winter Funland, and 15% off services from the Colonic Health Clinic.
If you’re looking to save money while making the most of leisure, wellbeing and family activities, it’s worth exploring the latest offers available through the West Midlands Police Club Sports & Wellbeing Association.
Suicide Lite Awareness Courses – online sessions!
The Trust continues to offer Suicide Lite Awareness sessions for all members of staff regardless of your role. This course is nationally recognised and is certificated. The course lasts 3.5 / 4 hours, and you will come away with a different perspective on Mental Health and, certainly, be more knowledgeable. Please seek approval from your line manager prior to booking on the course below.
We have the following date:-
|
Date |
Location |
Time |
Contact to Book Session |
|
Monday 14th December 2026 |
Online |
1200 – 1600 |
|
The course will be delivered via MS Teams, and staff must have access to a working web camera and microphone, this is a requirement of the course to enable staff to join in with group activities and receive their certificate.
Women’s Network Upcoming Workshops & Webinars
The Trust’s women’s Network has planned a series of workshops to help members ‘Connect, Learn and Grow’. The events that take place around the region and online kick off later this month with Communications Officer Amy Stubbs talking about ‘Finding Your Voice’. Other events include interview skills, a menopause webinar, personal impact sessions and sessions entitled ‘Your Body Keeps the Score’ and ‘Own Your Strengths: Confidence and Taking Your Next Step’.
You can see further information by clicking the poster and should you wish to attend, please email Joshua Gill.
TASC Benefits & Debt Clinic
The Ambulance Staff Charity (TASC) has launched a new monthly online Benefits and Debt Clinic, offering free, confidential support for ambulance workers who are worried about debt or are unsure about benefits. The monthly online clinic makes it easier than ever for ambulance workers to access expert financial guidance on anything from debt solutions to managing a budget or applying for Universal Credit. Appointments can be booked at a time that suits them, with confidential one-to-one support from a TASC money expert.
So far they have three clinics set up on Wednesday 16/9/26, Wednesday 14/10/26 and Wednesday 18/11/2026 with the possibility of more if popular. They are open to anyone employed within the ambulance service, NHS volunteer or student paramedic and are free, private, and confidential.
Appointments are free for eligible members of the ambulance community and can be booked online at www.theasc.org.uk/benefitsanddebtclinic.
If you’re worried about your finances, TASC is here to help. Learn more about our financial wellbeing services: https://www.theasc.org.uk/services-we-offer/financial-wellbeing/
We Are the Least Active in the Country!
New data from a major NHS study has shown that the West Midlands is the least active area of the country. The analysis of information provided two million people to the Our Future Health project shows that just 52.4% of people in the West Midlands are meeting the NHS activity guidelines, the lowest in the country. According to the UK Chief Medical Officers, people aged 18-64 should aim for:
- At least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week – or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity a week. Moderate activity is exercise where you can talk but not sing, such as riding a bike or hiking. Vigorous activity makes you breathe hard and fast, like running or aerobics
- Muscle-strengthening activities on at least 2 days per week, targeting all major muscle groups.
- Exercise to be spread evenly over 4 or more days a week
The data shows that people aged 60-69 are the most active with a real slump in those in their 30s. The data also highlights the difference between the sexes with women doing less exercise than men until retirement, but more afterwards. Why is this important? The authors point out than any level of activity is better than none, but being active reduces your chance of developing Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, falls, depression, joint and back pain and even some cancers. If you want advice on exercise, you can find it on the NHS website or go to our ‘Physical Health’ section.
Optima Health Preventative Health
Free online resource from Optima Health packed with expert information, videos, downloadable guides and practical advice to help you build healthy habits and support your long-term health.
Supporting Your Own Wellbeing
Your health and wellbeing should always be a priority yet it’s something that is commonly put on the backfoot. Use this sheet and it’s QR codes to choose one practical starting point for checking in with your wellbeing, understanding common signs of stress or emotional strain, and finding support options. These resources can be used before, during or after accessing other support. These are a good place to start, but if you feel you need further help go to our main website and find a vast array of helpful advice and signposts. If you feel you need urgent help call 999 or go to an A&E.
Click on the image to enlarge to a full document.
Training and events!
Mental Maintenance Toolkits
Working in the ambulance service brings unique pressures. Whether you are on the frontline, behind the scenes, or volunteering, your mental wellbeing matters. Looking after it every day is just as important as responding in a crisis. These two free toolkits, created by the North East Ambulance Service and endorsed by the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives, are designed to help you take proactive steps.
A confidential, fillable workbook to reflect on your mental health and create your own wellbeing plan. This can be a useful tool for: 1:1 wellbeing conversations, phased return planning, or personal reflection.
Employee and Volunteer Toolkit
A practical guide covering common topics such as sleep, anxiety, low mood, trauma, and fatigue. Includes self-help strategies and signposting to further support.
If you need a little help to get going, there are lots of people who can support you:
- Talk to your line manager
- Connect with WMAS’ peer support team (SALS)
- Access Qwell: free, anonymous online counselling and wellbeing support for staff – visit qwell.io/wmas
- Speak with a WMAS Mental Wellbeing Practitioner
- Request a referral to Occupational Health (Optima)
You can access confidential support outside of work:
- TASC: call 02477 987 922 for general advice, or 0300 373 0898 for 24/7 crisis support. More info at theasc.org.uk
- Shout: text SHOUT to 85258 for free, 24/7 text support
- Samaritans: call 116 123 any time, or email jo@samaritans.org (reply within 24 hours). More info at Samaritans.org
- Your GP or 111 for advice and support
NHS Specialist Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Service
Endometriosis and adenomyosis are chronic conditions where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus or into its wall, causing pain, inflammation and other symptoms. Affecting 1 in 10 women, these conditions can significantly impact daily life.
We are proud to share that Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, an accredited British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (BSGE) centre is providing expert care for complex endometriosis cases in line with national standards.
Their specialist multidisciplinary team works collaboratively with experts in pain management, physiotherapy, colorectal and urology services to create personalised treatment plans, while providing compassionate, patient-centred care with kindness and respect.
If you’re struggling with symptoms, or eager to learn more about their service, click here!
NHS Healthy Choices Quiz
We are supporting the Department of Health and Social Care and the NHS on a new campaign encouraging all adults to take the Healthy Choices Quiz. This health and wellbeing quiz aims to empower adults to take control of their health by making small changes day to day. Taking around 5 minutes to complete it asks questions about your lifestyle in the areas of eating, movement, alcohol consumption, smoking and vaping, mental health and sleep. You’ll receive an overall score based on your answers.
This score indicates how your lifestyle could be affecting your health and wellbeing. You’ll also be directed to guidance and advice for areas you could improve including a range of free NHS apps and tools. From a 9-week running programme for absolute beginners, to an anxiety reducing email programme, the NHS has a range of support on offer. Whether you want to eat better, move more or sleep deeper, the Healthy Choices Quiz can be your first step towards a healthier you.
The Black Country Integrated Care System Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Learning Events 2025/2026
To register your attendance at any of the equality, diversity, and inclusion learning events please copy and paste the link below into your browser to complete the booking form with your preferred date. You will be sent a link to join the sessions based on your preferred date. https://tinyurl.com/icsequalitytraining
Please note : All sessions will be delivered virtually via MS Teams. All of the sessions are available to system partner organisations in the Black Country ICS on a cost neutral basis and are free of charge to attend
HSBC Financial Wellbeing Webinars
Whether you want guidance on saving, or to learn the steps you need to take to feel confident about your finances, the HSBC webinars covers everything you need to maintain your financial wellbeing. To learn more about these webinars or to view the wider scope of HSBC’s fianncial education resources click here!
Support and Resources:
Free Mental Health Support Available Through the Staffordshire Network for Mental Health
Through their Journey to Wellbeing initiative, you can access individualised support tailored to your needs—whether it’s managing anxiety, building confidence, or finding effective coping strategies. The programme begins with a one-to-one telephone session, followed by a mix of one-to-one or group sessions on topics such as:
- Diet and exercise
- Money management
- Confidence building
- A listening ear
- Overcoming anxiety
As part of your journey, you may also be paired with a trained volunteer ‘buddy’ who will support you in achieving your goals and reviewing your progress. This is a completely free service open to anyone looking for support to improve their mental wellbeing.
Contact: 07591 924728
Email: info@snfmh.org
Website: www.snfmh.org
Planning for Retirement - Affinity connect Online Course
Financial education specialists ‘Affinity Connect’ would like to personally invite you to attend an interactive 2 hour and 30 minute online course around the key aspects of planning for a financially secure future.
Retirement might be up to 10 years away but it’s never too soon to start planning. This course is perfect for anyone thinking about retirement or already at the planning stages.
During the course you’ll learn how to:
- Help you plan for the lifestyle changes ahead
- Maximise the benefits of your State and workplace pensions
- Make the most of your tax-free cash
- Understand the income options available from your pension
- Achieve your retirement goals
Don’t miss out, spaces are limited! Please click here to book your place.
To find out what’s included in this course in more detail, please click here to view the agenda.
We hope you take advantage of this opportunity. Should you have any queries regarding your booking please contact us by either calling 0800 019 6076 or by emailing bookings@affinityconnect.org.
Please note the courses will provide information only and will not include or constitute regulated financial advice.
Conforto Service
Following on from our in-person drop-in sessions, we’re now offering a virtual option, in response to feedback. We know that flexibility matters, and for some, an online format might be a better fit. If this sounds like something you’d find useful, feel free to sign up or get in touch. Once we have enough interest, we’ll set up some Zoom sessions alongside our other services. We’re committed to making support accessible and working in a way that suits different needs. All the details are in the image provided, we look forward to hearing from you.
To sign up contact – conforto@chadd.org.uk or visit conforto.org.uk