Most of us are fortunate enough to lead healthy and active lives. In Cheshire there is ample opportunity to exercise both body and mind.
Joining a club can be a great way to meet new people, be active and keep you motivated. There is a large number of clubs and societies in Cheshire to cater for almost every interest or activity, from rock climbers to motor enthusiasts. Most will welcome new members or will be delighted if you come along to one of their events and, let's face it, it’s often more fun if you can share your interest with others.
Adult education classes are held in schools, colleges, community centres and village halls across the County. Subjects vary from belly dancing to computer science, from beginners to advanced.
So whether you want to gain more qualifications or you’re just curious and want to have a go, look out for details of the classes held near you.
There are also many classes run by other organisations, for example Cheshire St. John Ambulance who hold first aid training sessions across Cheshire, in addition to providing emergency aid services at public events throughout Cheshire.
If you prefer not to take part in organised events or activities then the County still offers the opportunity to pursue your interest. The library service has books, videos and discs on almost every topic that you can take home, try out and return for someone else to see. Tracing a family history or local history is made easier with the help offered from the Record Office and Registrars.
Leisure centres offer a whole range of facilities for sporting activity for all abilities and there's lots of information about sports and recreational opportunities on our website. District Councils in Cheshire run a number of leisure and sports centres, details are available on their websites.
If outdoor pursuits are more your thing, the Countryside Service ensures footpaths are clear and signposted. Public Rights of Way officers ensure that routes for cycling or horse riding are recorded. The natural geography of the county provides places for fishermen, rowers and land bound sailors. There are enough open spaces to fly your kite in peace, or if you’re more down to earth you can watch the cars or bikes roar past at high speed at Oulton Park.
From time to time all of us fall ill, or need help to lead our lives to the full.
Six Health Authorities merged in April 2002 to make up the Cheshire and Merseyside Strategic Health Authority. The Strategic Health Authority ensure the delivery of improvements in health and health services locally by Primary Care Trusts and NHS Trusts.
The NHS website lists or links to details of doctors, dentists, pharmacists (chemists) and opticians and also lists organisations supporting people coping with disability or with particular medical conditions. They also ensure that the hospitals and clinics have the facilities we need to treat emergencies and serious medical conditions or for a simple check up. You can also visit the NHS Direct Website.
The North West Public Health Observatory monitors regional health and disease trends, highlights areas for action and helps coordinate policy and information at regional and local levels.
Many of us can also help save the lives of others by giving blood. Visit the Blood Service for more details of donations and donor services.
Other Useful links:
- Age Concern
- BBC Health - advice and information about health matters
- Cancerbackup - Cancerbackup is Europe's leading cancer information charity. Its website contains over 4,500 pages of up-to-date cancer information, practical advice and support for cancer patients, their families, carers and friends.'
- Drugscope offers help and information relating to drugs
- HIT delivers effective interventions on drugs, alcohol, sexual health, community safety and other public health concerns.
- Lifeline offers help and information relating to drugs
- National Health Service
- NHS Direct is a health encyclopedia, self help guide, healthy living
- NHS Local Services is a local services finder, including local primary care trusts.
- Talk To Frank - offers help and information relating to drugs
There are several alternative therapy practitioners in Cheshire and private health facilities are also readily available. |