NDC – Safety Footwear Trials

To: All Branches with RMG Members

Dear Colleagues,

In response to various enquiries, it was agreed earlier this year to undertake a range of trials on new footwear makes, designs and styles in an effort to develop and re-design the range into a modern, fit for purpose range in order to encourage more staff to wear them, to meet individuals needs and preferences and to provide an improved, safe, ergonomically sound, durable and fit for purpose footwear range that staff are eager to wear.

Part of these trials involves 162 members at NDC (National Distribution Centre) Northampton who are taking part in the footwear trials of 9 types/designs of shoes and boots, including new trainer types and standard types of shoes and boots with those involved selecting from the new options and feeding back to the joint RMG/CWU committee.

The footwear types being trialed have been allocated to the members involved so RMG knows who receives what type, make and style and RMG has matched the trial product against what they have ordered in the past i.e. if they had previously had trainers RMG have allocated them a new trainers trial style.

The delivery has been phased in with some new styles taking longer to arrive as they are completely new.

Included in the NDC Trials is the option to trial the Parcelforce footwear, previously only supplied to PFW staff.

Footwear Types and Styles on trial:- Product

Feature VariantsRY06 Easyflex boot

Waterproof including Composite Toe CapEasyflex Trainer

Non Waterproof including Composite Toe CapTaormina shoe

In all black – Non Waterproof including Composite Toe CapYours sincerely

Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

17LTB604 NDC – Safety Footwear Trials

Copy of NDC Trial List

View Online

Collection From The Black Worker’s Conference 2017

At the Black Worker’s Conference held in Bristol on the 17th October 2017, the sum of £1,580 was raised and this will be donated to the Syrian Refugees.

Thank you for all the donations received from the branches.

Yours sincerely

Linda Roy

Assistant Secretary

LTB 602 – Black Workers Conference 2017

View Online

Swing Bar Barrier Gate Serious Accident to Keighley Postman Driver – Crown Court Case Against Site Owners Outcome – Guilty of Health and Safety Offences

To: All Branches

Dear Colleagues,

LTB 605/16 dated 14 October 2016 , reported to Branches, Health and Safety Reps and Regional Health and Safety Forums that on the 9th August 2016 a Keighley Delivery Office Postman and CWU member received serious injuries when his van collided with an unsecured ‘Swing Arm Barrier Gate’ which penetrated the Windscreen of his Royal Mail Vauxhall Combo delivery van and struck him in the face and head causing very serious injuries as he was leaving a sports centre premises after completing his deliveries to the address. The member narrowly avoided death and was fortunate to survive the accident. He was rushed to hospital where he underwent major surgery. Several operations and long term treatment for his injuries followed. (See Attached Photographs of the Accident Scene and Collision).

The CWU Health, Safety & Environment Department held meetings and exchanged correspondence with both Bradford Council and the HSE to press for the owners of the premises to be prosecuted for Health and Safety Offences and a prosecution of the site owners eventually proceeded.

Last month the site owners, Silsden Community Sports Club, pleaded guilty to health and safety regulation breaches at Bradford Crown Court, for failing to secure the swing bar barrier gate which subsequently swung into the path of the Royal Mail van.

The fact that this prosecution proceeded in the first place came about due to pressure by the CWU Health, Safety and Environment Department on the enforcing authorities to prosecute the site owners.

There was some reluctance by the Local Authority to prosecute, because of the type of organisation the defendants were. Silsden Community Sports Club serves the local community with little money and assets, depending on grants, donations and volunteer workers, the Club provides local facilities and amenities on a ‘not for profit’ basis, rather like a charity and is run by volunteers.

Nevertheless, we are pleased the prosecution went ahead and that Silsden Sports Club were found guilty as there is no excuse for ignoring safety legal obligations and compliance which in this case could have led to a fatality.

The outcome of the case that the Judge fined the Club a nominal £140 instead of a six figure fine plus costs and a restitution order which would have been the outcome had the Club owners been a large commercial company or organisation. For example, North Lincolnshire Council were fined £200,000 in a similar case. The Judge in this case also refused to grant Bradford Council their prosecution costs of £4,000, leaving them out of pocket.

The Judge said that he was following the ‘Mandatory’ Sentencing Council Guidance to the courts. This means that the court is required to take into account the “means” of the offenders and the court can’t set fines the offenders simply can’t pay. The court must take into account the size of the organisation in determining the sentence. It must look at turnover and profits identified in accounts and annual reports and the overall financial circumstances as well as the potential impact of offenders ability to improve safety conditions, make improvements and restitution etc.

A Civil Litigation, Claim for Damages for the member is being handled by the Union’s Solicitors and this will be a different thing altogether and will not face any limitations with the claim being taken against the Club’s Insurers. The payout will be based on a quantified, expertly valued and negotiated amount by the Solicitors and Barristers involved, either via a negotiated out of court settlement or if need be, via the civil courts.

The seriousness of the risk posed by unsecured ‘Swing Arm Barrier Gates’ cannot be underestimated. Apart from the 2016 Keighley case, in June 2011 a Somerset Delivery Office Postman was killed in a collision with a swing arm barrier gate at a farm and in 2012 a man died when his vehicle drove into an unsecured swing arm barrier gate at a car park in Lincolnshire.

The HSE issued a Warning and Advice, following the growing number of people killed or seriously injured in collisions with swing arm barrier gates in car parks (copy attached).

HSE Guidance states that ‘Duty Holders’ need to ensure that Swing Arm Barrier gates do not pose a hazard to drivers and must secure the gate, ensuring that suitable precautions are in place to control any risks and avoid collisions with vehicles, by making sure the gates are locked back open and are shut to suitable fixing posts preferably with a padlock so they cannot swing open and present an impalement risk.

A Swing Arm Barrier Gate typically comprises of a supported, horizontal bar or beam hinged at a vertical pillar. The bar is manually moved to open or close off access to an opening in a premises, car park exit/entrance.

Accidents have occurred when barriers have been inadequately secured so that they have partially opened and presented a least visible end on profile of the protruding barrier which has impaled an oncoming vehicle. The end profile of the barrier may not be clearly visible to an oncoming driver. Other incidents have occurred as a barrier has swung into the path of an oncoming vehicle. Unsecured barriers can swing open due to the wind, gravity, vibration or as a result of vandalism.

Royal Mail issued a Safety Alert following the Keighley accident (copy attached) for the Attention of all Royal Mail Van drivers regarding the dangers posed by unsecured swing arm barriers gates.

Would all CWU Branches and Safety Reps continue to raise awareness of the risks with Swing Arm Barrier Gates and bring the Royal Mail SHE Safety Alert and HSE Advice to Members who are Drivers!

In 2016, there was evidence to suggest that the Royal Mail Safety Alert had not been effectively briefed out and brought to the attention of our members nor displayed on Notice Boards. Would Safety Reps please ensure that this Safety Alert has been communicated to drivers so they are fully aware of the dangers of unsecured Swing Arm Barrier Gates.

Owners and operators of premises with Swing Arm Barrier Gates are must lock back these gates and are failing in their general duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act if they don’t do that simple task. Drivers should report any premises they deliver to or collect from where this is a problem in order that Royal Mail can take it up with the site owners.

As the Accident Scene and Accident Investigation Photographs demonstrate, Swing Arm Barrier Gates can be difficult to see when approaching them head-on and when not secured back especially in bad weather or poor light. The HSE advise that the end profile of the swing-arm barrier may not be clearly visible to an oncoming driver!

Attachments:

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

17LTB599 Swing Bar Barrier Gate Serious Accident to Keighley Postman Driver – Crown Court Case Against Site Owners Outcome – Guilty of Health and Safety Offences

16LTB605 Serious Safety Warning To All CWU Member Drivers Swing Arm Barrier Gates Hazard One Member Seriously Injured One Member Killed

RM Safety (SHE) Alert (GP SA 2016 00)

LTB 605 Att 1

LTB 605 Att 2

LTB 605 Att 3

LTB 605 Att 4

LTB 605 Att 5

LTB 605 Att 6

LTB 605 Att 7

View Online

Collection From The Disability Conference 2017

At the Disability Conference held in Bristol on the 18th October 2017, the sum of £281 was raised and this will be donated to the Bristol DPAC Branch.

Thank you for all the donations received from the branches.

Yours sincerely

Linda Roy

Assistant Secretary

LTB 601 – Disability Conference 2017

View Online

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month November 2017 and World Pancreatic Cancer Day Thursday 16 November 2017

To: All Branches

Dear Colleagues,

What You Need to Know About Cancer of the Pancreas

November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and World Pancreatic Cancer Day is Thursday 16 November. Most people are not always as knowledgeable about pancreatic cancer as breast, lung or prostate cancer, but the disease is just as debilitating.

The pancreas is a fish shaped organ that lies behind the stomach, deep in the body. It measures about 6 inches long and less than 2 inches wide. The pancreas is made up of exocrine glands (which make pancreatic enzymes that break down food in the intestines) and clusters of cells (which make hormones like insulin that help balance the amount of sugar in the blood).

Pancreatic cancer starts when the exocrine glands or the endocrine cells form tumours, which can spread throughout the body. Cancers formed by the exocrine cells are much more common.

When pancreatic cancer spreads, the cancer cells may also be found in nearby lymph nodes, the liver, the lungs or in fluid collected from the abdomen.

What is the pancreas?

The pancreas is a large gland that lies behind the stomach, at the back of the tummy area (abdomen) – at about the same height as the bottom of the breastbone. It is about 15cm (6 inches) long and shaped a bit like a tadpole. It is often described as having a head, body and tail. It is surrounded by several large and important organs and blood vessels. The head of the pancreas is next to the duodenum (first part of the small intestines). The body of the pancreas is the middle section, and the tail is next to the spleen. The liver, stomach, intestines, left kidney and gallbladder are also all close to the pancreas. The blood vessels that carry blood to the liver, intestines, kidneys and lower part of the body are very close to the pancreas, and may touch it. The pancreatic duct runs the length of the pancreas. It carries pancreatic juices, which contain enzymes made by the pancreas to the intestines. The pancreatic duct and bile

duct (which carries a fluid called bile from the liver) both open into the duodenum (small intestines).

Facts About Pancreatic Cancer

• Pancreatic cancer is the 10th most common cancer in the UK.

• Pancreatic cancer is the fifth biggest cancer killer in the UK – 26 a day.

• 8,500 people die from pancreatic cancer in the UK every year.

• Just 5% of patients survive – it has the worst survival rate of all 22 common cancers.

• The average life expectancy on diagnosis is four to six months.

• There are around 9,500 new cases of pancreatic cancer in the UK every year.

• About 1 in 75 people will get pancreatic cancer at some point in their life.

• Pancreatic cancer affects men and women equally.

• Nearly half of people are diagnosed as an emergency in our A&E system.

The earlier pancreatic cancer is caught, the better chance a person has of surviving 5 years after being diagnosed.

Pancreatic cancer – what is it?

Pancreatic cancer occurs when a malignant tumour forms in the pancreas. There are two main types of pancreatic cancer: Exocrine tumours which make up the vast majority of all pancreatic cancers and come from the cells that line the ducts in the pancreas which carry digestive juices into the intestine, and rarer, Endocrine tumours which are much less common.

What causes pancreatic cancer?

The causes of pancreatic cancer are not fully understood. However, there are some risk factors that make developing pancreatic cancer more likely:

Smoking – There is a direct relationship between the amount you smoke and the risk of pancreatic cancer. Around a third of all cases are associated with smoking.

Age – The risk of developing pancreatic cancer increases with age. It mainly affects people who are 50-80.

Chronic Pancreatitis – Long-term inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) has been linked to pancreatic cancer.

Diabetes – There have been a number of reports which suggest that diabetics have an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Obesity – Recent studies have shown that risk is higher in people who are obese (have a Body Mass Index more than 30). Some studies show that obese women who carry their weight on their stomach area are at an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Stomach Ulcer – Stomach Ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection (a stomach infection).

Genetics – In about 1 in 10 cases, pancreatic cancer is inherited from a person’s parents. Certain genes also increase your chances of getting pancreatitis, which in turn increases your risk of developing cancer of the pancreas.

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer

In the early stages, a tumour in the pancreas doesn’t usually cause any symptoms, which can make it difficult to diagnose.

It’s important to remember that these symptoms can be caused by many different conditions, and aren’t usually the result of cancer. But individuals should contact their GP if concerned, or if these symptoms start suddenly.

The first noticeable symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often:

• pain in the back or stomach area – which may come and go at first and is often worse when you lie down or after you’ve eaten

• unexpected weight loss

• jaundice – the most obvious sign is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes; it also causes your urine to be dark yellow or orange and your stools (faeces) to be pale-coloured

Other possible symptoms of pancreatic cancer include:

• nausea and vomiting

• bowel changes

• fever and shivering

• indigestion

• blood clots

Those affected may also develop symptoms of diabetes if they have pancreatic cancer, because it can produce chemicals that interfere with the normal effect of insulin.

Diagnosing pancreatic cancer

The GP will first ask about general health and carry out a physical examination. They may examine the tummy (abdomen) for a lump and to see whether the liver is enlarged.

They’ll also check the skin and eyes for signs of jaundice and may request a urine sample and blood test.

If the GP suspects pancreatic cancer, the person concerned will usually be referred to a specialist at a hospital for further investigation where the following may take place:

• an ultrasound scan

• a computerised tomography (CT) scan

• a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan

• a positron emission tomography (PET) scan – where an injection is given of a very small amount of radioactive medication, known as a tracer, which helps to show up cancers in an image

Depending on the results of a scan, further tests may include:

• an endoluminal ultrasonography (EUS) endoscopy – a type of endoscopy which allows close-up ultrasound pictures to be taken of the pancreas

• an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) – a type of endoscopy which is used to inject a special dye into the bile and pancreatic ducts; the dye will show up on an X-ray and highlight any tumours

• a laparoscopy – a surgical procedure that allows the surgeon to see inside the body using a laparoscopy (a thin, flexible microscope)

• A biopsy, where a small sample is taken from a suspected tumour, may also be carried out during these procedures.

NICE guidelines

In 2015, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) published guidelines to help GPs recognise the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer and refer people for the right tests faster.

To find more on this read the NICE 2015 guidelines on Suspected Cancer: Recognition and Referral at https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance

Treating pancreatic cancer

Cancer of the pancreas is difficult to treat. It rarely causes any symptoms in the early stages, so it’s often not detected until the cancer is fairly advanced. If the tumour is large, treating the cancer will be more difficult.

If diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, the treatment will depend on the type and location of the cancer, and how far it’s advanced. Age, general health and personal preferences will also be taken into consideration.

The first aim will be to completely remove the tumour and any other cancerous cells. If this isn’t possible, treatment will focus on preventing the tumour growing and causing further harm to the body.

The three main treatments for pancreatic cancer are:

• surgery

• chemotherapy

• radiotherapy

Some types of pancreatic cancer only require one form of treatment, whereas others may require two types of treatment or a combination of all three.

Recovering from Pancreatic Cancer Surgery

Recovering from pancreatic cancer surgery can be a long and difficult process.

Patients will probably experience some pain after the operation. Adequate pain relief will be prescribed.

After any type of surgery to the digestive system, the bowel will temporarily stop working. This means the patient won’t be able to eat or drink straight away.

The patient will gradually be able to sip fluids, before eventually being able to drink and eat more regularly. Advice will be given about what foods should be eaten following the operation.

After the tumour has been removed, the patient will probably have a six-month course of chemotherapy, which greatly increases the chance of being cured. But because cancer of the pancreas is difficult to diagnose and treat, many people don’t recover completely.

Treatment can be very effective in helping to ease symptoms and make the patient as comfortable as possible. Chemotherapy can help shrink the tumour and slow down its growth.

World Pancreatic Cancer Day –Thursday 16 November

This month is Pancreatic Cancer Month and Thursday 16 November is World Pancreatic Cancer Day. The CWU will be joining individuals and organisations in the UK and across the globe to

show that we are “in it together” in the aim to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer. World Pancreatic Cancer Day is organised by an International Steering Group made up of the following organisations: Pancreatic Cancer Action (UK), Pancreatic Cancer UK, PurpleOurWorld Australia, The JCM Foundation (USA), Craig’s Cause Pancreatic Cancer Society (Canada), European Cancer Patient Coalition (EU), PASYKAF (Cyrpus).

Pancreatic Cancer UK

Pancreatic Cancer UK is a charity fighting to make a difference by taking on pancreatic cancer, by supporting those affected by the disease, investing in research, lobbying for greater recognition of pancreatic cancer, and being there for everyone involved in the fight. The Charity wants to make sure that everyone touched by it gets the support and information they need. The Charity is here for everything you need to know about pancreatic cancer.

• They provide expert, personalised support and information via a Support Line and through a range of publications

• They fund innovative research to find the breakthroughs that will change how we understand, diagnose and treat pancreatic cancer

• They campaign for change; for better care, treatment and research, and for pancreatic cancer to have the recognition it needs.

Support Line – Freephone

Pancreatic Cancer UK operates a Freephone ‘Support Line’ which is a lifeline for thousands of patients, families and friends. Available to anyone affected by pancreatic cancer. The Pancreatic cancer specialist nurses understand the issues that individuals might be facing and can support people in coping with pancreatic cancer. They can provide individual specialist information about pancreatic cancer, treatment options and managing symptoms and side effects. As a listening ear, they can also help with your concerns and provide support and discuss sensitive issues with respect and acceptance.

Contact Details – Further Information:

Pancreatic Cancer UK

6th Floor Westminster Tower

3 Albert Embankment

London, England SE1 7SP

Tel: 020 3535 7090

Email: enquiries@pancreaticcancer.org.uk

Website: http://www.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/

Confidential Freephone Support: 0808 801 0707

Pancreatic Cancer Action

Pancreatic Cancer Action is another leading charity in the field with a focus on improving early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and improving the quality of life for those affected by pancreatic cancer. They are on a mission to stamp out late detection which is the reason that the survival rate has remained at between 2% – 4% for nearly 50 years.

Contact Details – Further Information:

Pancreatic Cancer Action Unit 9, Oakhanger Business Park, Oakhanger, Hampshire, GU35 9JA

Tel: 0303 040 1770

Website: www.pancreaticcanceraction.org

Visit the Pancreatic Cancer Action Website to obtain free fundraising and awareness materials on the link below:

https://pancreaticcanceraction.org/support-us/shop/

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

17LTB598 Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month November 2017 and World Pancreatic Cancer Day Thursday 16 November 2017

Pancreatic cancer: An overview of diagnosis and treatment

View Online

MOVEMBER CAMPAIGN – HIGHLIGHTING MEN’S HEALTH ISSUES – SPECIFICALLY PROSTRATE CANCER, TESTICULAR CANCER AND SUICIDE PREVENTION – HELP SAVE MEN’S LIVES “Movember – Stopping Men Dying Too Young”

To: All Branches

Dear Colleagues,

About The Movember Foundation and Campaign

The aim of the ‘Movember Foundation’ is simply ‘Stopping men dying too young’. Their mission statement says that “Our fathers, partners, brothers and friends face a health crisis that isn’t being talked about. Men are dying too young. We can’t afford to stay silent and that’s why we’re taking action.” The Movember Foundation claims to be the only charity tackling men’s health on a global scale, year round, addressing some of the biggest health issues faced by men: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health and suicide prevention. The Charity says that they know what works for men, and how to find and fund the most innovative research to have both a global and local impact. They’re independent of government funding, so they can challenge the status quo and invest quicker in what works. In 13 years the Charity proudly claims to have funded more than 1,200 men’s health projects around the world. The Charity’s aspiration is to reduce the number of men dying prematurely by 25%, by 2030. They are appealing for anyone interested to help stop men dying too young by joining the movement. The Movember Foundation’s strategy is all about going where men need them most. They say they know what works for men and they aim to transform the way research into men’s health is done, and the way health services reach and support men.

The Movember Foundation is now concentrating on three key men’s health issues:-

Prostate Cancer:

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, and rates are on the rise. By 2030 there’ll be 1.7 million men living with prostate cancer. It’s already killing hundreds of thousands of men each year, and those who survive face serious side effects. We can’t afford to let this continue. So the Movember Foundation is taking action. The Movember Foundation says “We’ve spent years learning how to tackle the toughest cancer challenges in innovative ways. Now it’s time to draw a line in the sand. By 2030 they aim to halve the number of men dying from prostate cancer.”

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in the UK.

Know the facts and take action early: https://uk.movember.com/mens-health/prostate-cancer

Testicular Cancer:

When testicular cancer strikes, it strikes young. Most of those men are between 15 and 40 years old. We have to help them, and stop men from dying too young. The Movember Foundations says “We’ve spent years learning how to tackle the toughest cancer challenges in innovative ways. Now it’s time to draw a line in the sand. By 2030 we’ll halve the number of men dying from testicular cancer.”

In most cases, the outcome for men with testicular cancer is positive, but a 95% chance of survival is no comfort to the 1 man in 20 who won’t make it.

Know the facts and take action early: https://uk.movember.com/mens-health/testicular-cancer

Suicide Prevention:

Depression doesn’t discriminate. And it’s not something that just goes away once you’ve been told to ‘toughen up’ and get on with life. Globally, the rate of suicide is alarmingly high, particularly in men. Around the world, on average we lose a man to suicide every minute of every day. Three out of four suicides are men. Too many are toughing it out and struggling alone. We have to take action to improve mental health and reduce the rate of male suicide. The Movember Foundations says “We’re working toward a world where men and boys take action to be mentally healthy and well, and are supported by their friends, family and community during tough times. We’re working to immediately stop the increase in male suicide rates. By 2030 we’ll reduce the rate of male suicides by 25%.”

1 in 8 men in the UK have experienced a mental health problem.

3 out of four 4 suicides are men.

What can we do?

Talk. Ask. Listen. Encourage action. Check in: https://uk.movember.com/mens-health/mental-health

Read about the Movember Foundation’s Work:

• Prostate Cancer: https://uk.movember.com/programs/prostate-cancer

• Testicular Cancer: https://uk.movember.com/programs/testicular-cancer

• Mental Health and Suicide Prevention: https://uk.movember.com/programs/mental-health

Movember is an annual campaign, highlighting men’s health issues. The aim of which is to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health. The Movember Foundation works with men’s health partners, the Prostate Cancer Charity and The Institute of Cancer Research, prompting private and public conversation around the often ignored issue of men’s health. Movember has continued to grow each year, both in terms of participation numbers and funds raised. Since 2003, the Movember Foundation has been committed to helping men live happier, healthier, longer lives. Millions have joined in.

In its first year 30 volunteer fund-raisers known as “Mo-Bros” took part in Movember and since then thanks to the support of ‘Mo Bros’ and ‘Mo Sistas’ the Charity has funded more than 1,200 projects saving and improving the lives of men all around the world.

From humble beginnings back in 2003 the Movember movement has grown to be a global one, inspiring support from over 5 million ‘Mo Bros’ and ‘Mo Sistas’. The Movember Foundation wouldn’t be where it is without the enthusiasm of all of those men and women around the globe and the organisation is committed to keeping things fresh, keeping the community informed, and always being transparent and accountable in their practices.

To date, Movember has raised over £443 million globally for the fight against prostate cancer, testicular cancer and depression in men. Going forward, Movember will continue to work towards helping to change established habits and attitudes and make men aware of the risks they face, thereby increasing early detection, diagnosis and effective treatment

Spreading the Word – How it Works

Movember’s tag line is ‘changing the face of men’s health’ which articulately describes the challenge – volunteers change their appearance by growing a moustache during November and the outcome – changing the understanding and attitudes men have towards their health. The moustache is Movember’s ribbon, it is the catalyst by which Movember intends to bring about real change through the awareness generated by the simple act of growing a Mo. The appearance of a moustache on a usually clean shaven man prompts questions from those around them. Throughout the month of Movember they are constantly asked the question – why the moustache? Each volunteer (Mo-Bro) then needs to justify his new look with an explanation about the unique challenges men face with their health, and key messages about prostate and testicular cancer and male depression and suicide. The result is a highly effective and authentic word-of-mouth campaign. The ‘Mens Health’ Awareness and Education Issue

On average men die five to six years younger than women. The suicide rate is four times higher for men than women and more than five men die prematurely each hour from potentially preventable illnesses. These are hard hitting facts; especially when you consider that there is no biological disadvantage that puts men at greater risk than women and according to recent research up to half of male cancer cases could be prevented by making healthy diet and lifestyle choices. The reasons for the current state of men’s health are numerous and complex but it appears that the biggest issue is the way in which men think about their health; preventative health being something many men just don’t compute. It is this issue that Movember’s Awareness and Education program is working hard to change. Awareness and education alters behaviour and mind-sets, it gradually breaks down barriers, removes stigmas and brings about real change. Movember wants men to take responsibility for their health, prevent illness by leading a healthy lifestyle and understand the symptoms and signs in both themselves and others so they can appreciate when and how to seek help if needed. Prostate Cancer Facts

• One man dies every hour of prostate cancer in the UK.

• Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK.

• In the UK 41,000 men are diagnosed every year, over 100 a day.

• 1 in 9 men will get prostate cancer in the UK.

• 250,000 men are living with prostate cancer.

• 10,000 men die every year from prostate cancer in the UK.

• Ethnicity: African Caribbean men are three times more likely to develop prostate cancer.

• Family: you are 2.5 times more likely to develop prostate cancer if your father or brother has had it.

• Diet: if you have a diet rich in fat, dairy products and red meat, this may increase your risk of developing prostate cancer (and other health conditions).

• It is important that men of all ages are aware of their prostate and prostate cancer.

Testicular Cancer Facts

• There are around 2,300 new cases of testicular cancer in the UK every year, that’s around 6 cases diagnosed every day.

• Testicular cancer accounts for less than 1% of all new cases in the UK.

• In males in the UK, testicular cancer is the 16th most common cancer, with around 2,300 cases diagnosed.

• Almost half (47%) of testicular cancer cases in the UK each year are diagnosed in males aged under 35.

• Since the late 1970s, testicular cancer incidence rates in males have increased by 90% in Great Britain.

• Over the last decade, testicular cancer incidence rates in males have increased by around a tenth (11%) in the UK.

• Most testicular cancers occur in descended testicles.

• Incidence rates for testicular cancer are projected to rise by 12% in the UK between 2014 and 2035, to 10 cases per 100,000 males by 2035.

• 1 in 195 men will be diagnosed with testicular cancer during their lifetime.

• Testicular cancer in England is less common in males living in the most deprived areas.

• Testicular cancer is more common in White males than in Asian or Black males.

• In the UK around 18,600 people were still alive up to ten years after being diagnosed with testicular cancer.

• In Europe, around 21,500 new cases of testicular cancer were estimated to have been diagnosed. The UK incidence rate is 19th highest in Europe.

• Worldwide, around 55,300 new cases of testicular cancer were estimated to have been diagnosed, with incidence rates varying across the world.

Suicide Facts

• There are around 6,600 suicides in the UK and Republic of Ireland each year.

• This corresponds to a suicide rate of 10.8 per 100,000 people (16.8 per 100,000 for men and 5.2 per 100,000 for women).

• The highest annual suicide rate in the UK is for men aged 45-49 at 26.5 per 100,000.

• The male suicide rate decreased in the UK (by 5.6%), England (by less than 1%), Wales (by 37.6%), Scotland (by 17.6%), Northern Ireland (by 10.2%) and Republic of Ireland (by 6.4%) the last full year of available statistics.

• Female suicide rates increased in the UK (by 8.3%), England (by 14%), Scotland (by 7.8%) and Republic of Ireland (by 14.7%) between 2013 and 2014. Female suicide rates decreased in Wales (by 38.2%) and Northern Ireland (by 17.7%).

• The female suicide rate in England is at its highest since 2005.

• The female suicide rate in the UK is at its highest since 2011.

Is Movember Making a Difference?

The answer is yes. Recent research carried out by Movember highlighted that the campaign is working successfully in terms of raising awareness whilst having a positive impact on making men think about their health. Movember participants were shown to spend more time thinking about health issues or reflecting on them than non-participants (the general population). To be specific, in the UK, the research revealed:

89% of participants spent time thinking about improving their general health

57% of participants have had a general check-up

70% discussed men’s health with their family, friends or colleagues during Movember

58% carried out personal research on men’s health issues during Movember

51% worried about their general health

77% understood that their health depends on how well they take care of themselves

The research encouragingly shows that participation in Movember does encourage men to proactively engage in the management of their health. However, findings also

highlighted that 50% of men had ignored an issue rather than go to a doctor. This is proof that there is still work to be done and Movember has a responsibility to keep raising awareness, thereby motivating and engaging men around the world to change the face of men’s health.

“MOVEMBER” Website:– http://uk.movember.com/

A significant number of CWU National, Regional and Branch Officers have participated in the ‘Movember’ fund raising efforts since the movement started and our congratulations goes out to them all – please give them your full support.

Thanks for your support.

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

LTB 597/17

View Online

World Diabetes Day 2017 – 14 November 2017

To: All Branches

Dear Colleagues,

World Diabetes Day falls on 14 November every year. It’s a day when millions of people around the world come together to raise awareness of diabetes, and what it’s really like to live with the condition. It’s a global campaign led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) with activity taking place around the world.

Join the fight for a better future

The campaign aims to create a world where diabetes can do no harm, and there’s real hope for better treatment, research and understanding of diabetes, but the campaign needs support. They want to add voices to thousands of others and join the fight for a better future for people living with diabetes. Help spread the word on Twitter and Facebook on World Diabetes Day. Your voice will help to make better diabetes care, research and understanding a reality.

International Diabetes Federation website

http://worlddiabetesday.org/

Helpline

Ready and waiting to help. Specialist information and advice on all aspects of living with diabetes. Get in touch for answers, support or just to talk to someone who knows diabetes.

Diabetes UK know that living with diabetes is tough. They know it doesn’t give you a day off and also know how to make life with diabetes a little easier. The Diabetes UK Helpline is staffed by trained counsellors who really understand diabetes. They can provide information about the condition, take time to talk things through and explore emotional, social, psychological or practical difficulties.

England, Wales & NI

Call: 0345 123 2399*, Monday to Friday, 9am – 6pm

Email: helpline@diabetes.org.uk

Scotland:

Call: 0141 212 8710*, Monday to Friday, 9am – 6pm

Email: helpline.scotland@diabetes.org.uk

15 Healthcare essentials

What are the 15 Healthcare Essentials? The 15 Healthcare Essentials is the minimum level of healthcare everyone with diabetes deserves and should expect.

You can use this list to talk to your healthcare team about your individual needs as part of your annual care planning review. This is where you should agree your priorities, discuss your personal targets and agree a written plan of action to help you reach them.

• Get your blood glucose levels measured (HbA1c blood test)

• Have your blood pressure measured

• Have your blood fats measured

• Have your eyes screened for signs of retinopathy

• Have your feet and legs checked

• Have your kidney function monitored

• Get ongoing, individual dietary advice

• Get emotional and psychological support

• Be offered a local education course

• See specialist healthcare professionals

• Get a free flu vaccination

• Receive high-quality care if admitted to hospital

• Have the chance to talk about any sexual problems

• If you smoke, get support to quit

• Get information and specialist care if you are planning to have a baby

If you aren’t getting all the care you deserve, take it up with your GP or to your local NHS and diabetes services and discuss it with them. If you need help call the Diabetes UK

Helpline (See Above).

Living with diabetes

See information at https://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/diabetes/Pages/diabeteshome.aspx

Diabetes Education

Diabetes education courses make living with diabetes easier. Whether you have Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes, it can feel like there is a lot to learn. But going on a course can help you understand what diabetes is and how it affects your body. People who have been on a course feel more confident about looking after their condition and are less likely to suffer complications. In fact, attending a course is one of the 15 Healthcare Essentials, the essential health checks and services that everyone with diabetes should be getting from their healthcare team every year. The courses are friendly and welcoming. They give you the chance to ask questions and meet people who are going through the same experience as you. Everyone in the UK with diabetes should be offered a free diabetes course by their doctor, nurse or consultant. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have had diabetes for a while, make sure you ask for a referral to a course from your GP of NHS Diabetes Service.

What courses are there? These are some of the main diabetes courses available in the UK:

DAFNE: for people with Type 1 diabetes. Learn how to estimate the carbohydrates in each meal and inject the right dose of insulin, so you can fit diabetes into your own lifestyle

DESMOND: for people with Type 2 diabetes. Helps you understand your diabetes, make food choices and take control.

X-PERT Diabetes Programme: for people with Type 2 diabetes. Explore how diabetes affects your body and how lifestyle changes can help you manage your diabetes.

There are also a number of locally based courses – so do ask your healthcare professional about the different options relevant to you. If possible, Diabetes UK recommend that you attend a course that meets national quality standards set out by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (known as NICE) – if in doubt ask your healthcare professional.

New improvement fund for diabetes in England

NHS England announced a £40m national fund to improve diabetes services in four priority areas:

• Improving the uptake of structured education for people with diabetes

• Improving the achievement of the NICE recommended treatment targets

• New or expanded multi-disciplinary footcare teams (MDFTs)

• New or expanded diabetes inpatient specialist nursing services (DISNs)

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

17LTB596 World Diabetes Day 2017 – 14 November 2017

View Online

CWU LGBT Conference Agenda Pad – Wednesday 22nd November 2017

Branches would wish to know that the agenda for the forthcoming CWU LGBT Conference being held in Bristol on Wednesday 22nd November has now been published on the website and can be accessed using the link below:

http://www.cwu.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/LGBT-CONFERENCE-AGENDA-2017.pdf

Hard copies of the agenda will be sent to Branch addresses of everyone that has registered using the online registration system.

Credential cards for delegates/visitors and voting cards for this conference will be issued on the morning of the conference at registration.

Any enquiries regarding this LTB should be addressed to Angela Niven by telephoning 020 8971 7256 or by post to head office or by email to conferences@cwu.org

Yours sincerely,

A P Kearns

Senior Deputy General Secretary

17LTB595

LGBT CONFERENCE AGENDA 2017

View Online