Health & Wellbeing
2025
Feeling frazzled?
Frazzled Cafe (a space for people who
might be feeling “frazzled” to talk and
share their stories, while meeting
others in a safe, supportive - and non
judgemental - environment) is
launching in Harpenden. It’s an
initiative started by Ruby Wax,
which began as a drop in at M&S
cafes in London. Now, thanks to
funding from the Harpenden Trust,
we have been able to set one up
with fully trained and qualified
facilitators in Harpenden.
The cafe sessions are on Mondays (from 7.30pm - 8.45pm at the Eric Morecambe Centre). It takes place in the Foyer area.
Christina and Sarah (above right) are the two facilitators.
The link to sign up is https://bookwhen.com/harpendentrustxfrazzledcafe
More drivers than ever are switching off for cleaner air. ARE YOU AN IDLER?
Jan. Shock NHS medicines wastage revealed.
Did you know that 25% of NHS carbon emissions are from medicines,,,and at least 10% of prescriptions in primary care need not have been issued.
These statistics along with more astonishing facts have been confirmed by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society following my visit to Manor Pharmacy in Harpenden who have displayed the huge amounts of returned medicines/prescriptions returned in just one week.
How can local residents help?
*Not to stockpile medicines, only
order repeats when you need then
and dispose of medicines you
don’t need appropriately, at your
local pharmacy.
*If patients find they are not taking
a particular medicines as
prescribed or are struggling with
side effects, in the first instance
then ask community pharmacist
to provide help and advice. They
may be able to offer a medicines
review or arrange one with
the GP practice.
What can Pharmacies do?
*They need to make sure that patients are taking medicines they prescribe, so ensuring they keep up with regular medicine reviews and optimise patients’ treatment.
*They need to highlight medicines waste and look into ways of reusing patient-returned medicines and into environmentally friendly alternatives for single use plastics, such as medicines spoons and syringes, associated with medicines.
*Additionally pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in all sectors are responsible for medication reviews. These are an ideal opportunity to work with patients to reduce medicines waste by addressing concerns, improving compliance and de-prescribing medicines the patient no longer takes or are not appropriate.
How does wastage occur?
Evidence shows that the number of items dispensed by primary care providers has doubled in recent years, from an average of 10 per person in 1996 to around 20 per person by 2020.
A recent report estimated that at least 10% of prescriptions in primary care need not have been issued... Adverse effects of medicines account for 6.5% of hospital admissions.
Every hospital admission and unnecessary prescription adds to the carbon footprint of the NHS, so we must work hard to prevent patient harm from medicines and associated waste in the system. The most environmentally friendly medicine is the one that is not required and not prescribed.
Repeat prescriptions make up an estimated 75% of all prescription items. Repeat prescription arrangements must ensure that patients’ requirements for medicines are checked at every issue. Medicines' waste occurs when every item on a repeat prescription list is automatically ordered but not all are needed. Patients should be encouraged to only order what they need.
Sustainable prescribing
Around 25% of NHS carbon emissions are from medicines.The majority of these emissions result from the manufacture, procurement, transport and use of medicines (20%), with the remaining 5% specifically from inhalers (3%) and anaesthetic gases (2%).
Evidence shows that the number of items dispensed by primary care providers has doubled in recent years, from an average of 10 per person in 1996 to around 20 per person by 2020.
NB. The RPS sustainability policy has a whole section on tackling medicines waste https://www.rpharms.com/recognition/all-our-campaigns/policy-a-z/sustainability-policy/policies
Would you like a cleaner, greener, healthier Harpenden?
HOW? By increasing access to cycling and walking initiatives, Herts County & SADC will help to improve health and air quality, as well as reducing traffic congestion.”
They have produced a technical report identifying key cycling and walking routes in the District where the potential demand is greatest and where changes will most benefit residents. A number of improvements have been put forward and costed for 72 priority routes across the district.
A travel survey has shown there is a strong desire among residents for improved walking and cycling routes to support people who want to choose eco-friendly transport.
Councillor Phil Bibby, HCC’s Executive Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We want cycling and walking to be an easy and convenient choice for people using and visiting our city centres. Receiving feedback on our proposed cycling and walking plan for St Albans is key to helping develop a framework that provides a greener and safer way to travel.
LEARN MORE NOW. I have edited their 73 page report down to 16 pages with Harpenden related details here:
Cycling and Walking Infrastructure 2023 PDF.pdf
Scroll down to read the analysis of the recent meeting in 2023 with recommendations for action.
Ron Taylor . Editor
Ribbon Cancer Support Group
1.30pm - 3pm Wednesdays 2023
Harpenden Trust Halls
‘A new support group for AL5 residents’
We are delighted to announce the launch of a new, local support group for people who have had a cancer diagnosis. Working with ‘The Harpenden Trust’ and backed by Macmillan, the group will run every Wednesday afternoon in their halls in Southdown and will provide a safe space where you can meet and connect with people who share similar experiences. Whether you want to come and tell your story, have a friendly chat, or just listen, we are here to help support you. Come along and find out more.
We are looking forward to meeting you!
Ania, Andy and Clare
RCSG runs every Wednesday from 1:30pm to 3pm,
Harpenden Trust Halls, 130a Southdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1PU.
Email us for more information at rcsg@theharpendentrust.org.uk
A totally new concept to Wellness is now available
in Harpenden.
It’s all thanks to Harpenden resident Helen Hindley,
the founder of Regency Health Ltd.and the cutting
edge Human RegeneratorTM A state-of-the-art
device that utilises Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP)
technology to promote healing, reduce inflammation,
and support cellular regeneration.
So. how does it all work?
The Human RegeneratorTM offers a uniquely relaxing experience that sets it apart from traditional therapies. As users lie down during the session, they are surrounded by an electromagnetic field that promotes tranquillity. Many clients report a sense of deep relaxation, allowing their bodies to release tension and stress. The subtle tingling sensation from the Cold Atmospheric Plasma treatment not only may alleviate pain and discomfort but also encourages a peaceful state of mind, enhancing the overall wellness experience.
“We are thrilled to bring the Human Regenerator to Harpenden and to offer a new path for those seeking relief and rejuvenation,” said Helen.
Pictures above: The Human Regenerator with Helen lying at ease in the innovative wellness centre in Holly Bush Lane
Helen standing by the control panel.
How will their services improve your wellbeing?
Helen Hindley is a passionate nutrition and lifestyle educator currently qualifying as a nutritional therapist, Regenify Health embodies a holistic approach to health and well-being. Helen's extensive knowledge and commitment to health empowers individuals to take control of their wellness journeys.
“At Regenify Health, our ethos revolves around promoting overall well-being through innovative technologies and evidence-based practices,” said Helen.
Special opening offer
To celebrate our opening, we are offering a special promotion: use the code SELFCARE100 for your first-time booking to save 60%, paying only £100
For more information about Regenify Health, the Human RegeneratorTM, and our services, please visit www.regenifyhealth.co.uk or contact us at 07879 461699 or regenifyhealth@gmail.com.
Mental Health and Gambling
I attended the Harpenden Society meeting on Oct 17 where many issues about mental health were discussed by Dr Alison Cowan .
I found her talk very informative and helpful.
Having worked with my local MP on gambling harm for 5 years. As a freelance radio presenter, I have interviewed children and adults affected by gambling harm. They have been in all walks of life, homeless, a child of a parent with a gambling addiction, an x army soldier, a once prosperous business man / woman, plus many more. It has been heartbreaking to hear these stories. .
Gambling is an addiction, affected by the dopamine in the brain. .
The NHS now as set up more clinics to cope with the demand for help..
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2024/03/new-nhs-gambling-clinic-opens-amid-growing-demand/
Unlike Drinking, Smoking and Drugs, it is a silent addiction that many look at as shameful. .and suffer silently. .
Singer with Steve Hackett (Genesis) released this single on Gambling harm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L58wWz9d47E
Sylvia Fountain
A new way to attain fitness in 2025 here in Harpenden.
New technology is constantly improving all aspects of our lifestyle with benefits we thought almost impossible a few years ago. Personal fitness via traditional gym membership is no different.
Rather than spending hours exerting yourself and your cardio vascular system, leaving you hot and sweaty, why not spend just 20 minutes on a muscle strength building session that leaves you on the start of journey to improved fitness at fit20 in Harpenden.
Fit20 is an extremely established franchise, using a scientifically proven model. The largest study ever done within sports and exercise science, where the strength gains of nearly 15,000 fit20 members over seven years, were analysed by Dr James Steele, Sport and Exercise Sciences, Solent University in Southampton.
The results, published by the Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, showed that fit20 members were making significant strength gains in the order of 30 to 50 percent in the first year of training, regardless of age, gender, and fitness level. That is from one 20 minute strength training session a week!
There are 5 high tech machines set up in Harpenden. fit20 offer personalised high-intensity strength training sessions designed to build muscle, increase energy levels, and improve overall health—all in just one 20-minute session per week. . You can see progress on the screen in front of you and reference back to results via an App.
AND they want people to come in their work clothes and not have to worry about changing! -AS you can see from my visit below using a couple of the machines.
A trainer will work with you to devise a personalised weekly programme and monitor your progress on each visit. I chatted with the owners ( Liam Lawless and Alicja Szypryt and found them very helpful and informative.
They are based in the Forresters , just off the High Street.
My report here is based on a recent short visit so you may want to check details further on their web site.
1a The Forresters, Harpenden AL5 2FB
May 21. Getting diet to boost mental health
Following Stuart Roberts’ theme at the Harpenden Society meeting, of environment-friendly farming’s contribution to an overall healthy lifestyle, local food nutritionist Katharine Tate, ( also known as The Food Teacher™ ) under the heading of ‘Looking after the Grey Matter!’, put forward her professional advice, clearly reviewing the role of diet in determining mental health in particular.
Studies into gradual cognitive impairment – often heading towards dementia – had, she said, indicated a link to blood sugar level in one’s metabolism, where the carbohydrates in white starchy food and the stimulants found in fizzy drinks and caffeine were best avoided, as well as the so-called ‘trans fats’ common in ultra-processed and ‘junk food’.
When it came to ‘dementia risk’ there were, said Katharine, inevitably numerous lifestyle influences, but the positive role of a ‘healthy gut’ ranked alongside restful sleep, set against such damaging influences as lack of exercise and anxiety.
In summary, Katharine outlined her ‘top tips’ for a healthy lifestyle, one best designed to combat cognitive impairment and the possible onset of dementia. These were to regulate blood sugar level while nevertheless consuming a range of nutrients including plenty of protein. Away from dietary considerations, she stressed the desirability of older people to ‘keep moving’ and to maintain mental stimulation, via hobbies, social activity and acquiring new skills.
Step Inside the Great Gut – London Hosts UK’s First Microbiome and Gut Health Festival, Sept 22-27.
Official Opening by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal on Tuesday 23rd September.
Harpenden Expert Curates Festival on the Hidden World of Gut Health
Harpenden’s very own Katharine Tate, The Food Teacher™, (see photo below) has taken centre stage as Programme Manager of the UK’s first-ever Microbiome and Gut Health Festival, happening this September in London.
The event, titled Inside Out: Your Microbiome and Gut Health Festival, will transform Paternoster Square (next to St Paul’s Cathedral) into a unique health hub from 22nd–27th September. At its heart will be a spectacular giant inflatable walk-through gut, (see image below) giving visitors of all ages the chance to explore the fascinating hidden world inside our bodies.
Katharine Tate, an award-winning nutritional therapist, health coach, author and founder of The Food Teacher™ in Harpenden, has brought together over 25 high-profile medics, scientists, chefs and nutritionists including Dr Megan Rossi (PhD, RD), founder of The Gut Health Doctor®. They will all share the latest science around the microbiome and our health, practical tips and food demos.
Speaking about her role, Katharine said: “It’s a privilege to curate this unique event and bring so many leading voices in gut health and nutrition together. From live cooking sessions to expert talks on everything from mood and stress to childhood development, there will be something for everyone. I’d love to see lots of local residents come to the festival and experience the giant inflatable for themselves.”
Katharine added, “This festival is a chance to make the importance of our digestive health accessible, engaging and inspiring for everyone – adults and children alike.”
The Inside Out Festival is free to attend, and no booking is required. Funding has been provided by The City of London Corporation.
For Harpenden residents, it’s a brilliant opportunity to combine a trip to London with an educational and eye-opening experience. For the full programme and further details visit; www.ghcprojects.com/insideout
Harpenden Town Council has launched a Harpenden Sports Clubs survey.
In line with its strategic objective to improve health and wellbeing in the community, the aim of the survey is to work with local sports club representatives to find out how Harpenden Town Council can provide support to this hugely important sector.
By gaining a thorough understanding of what is already on offer, the Town Council hopes to provide the support needed to ensure sports facilities remain accessible to all in the local community. The survey offers industry stake holders an opportunity to highlight obstacles they face whether it be in provision of facilities, membership, funding, future growth plans or other challenges.
Harpenden Town Mayor, Cllr Beth Fisher said:
"Harpenden’s sports clubs and local associations are an integral part of our community and it is vital they continue to thrive and provide facilities that are accessible and inclusive for everyone.
We take the benefits of participation in sport and exercise seriously. Our community has a wealth of clubs for both adults and children and we’d like to understand more about them in order to offer effective support."
A link to complete the survey has been sent out to local clubs and is also available on the Town Council’s website (printed copies are also available at the Town Hall).
Harpenden Town Council is asking participants to complete the survey by September 21st, 2025.
Further information about the survey is available on the Harpenden Town Council website: www.harpenden.gov.uk.
From Chance Meeting to Community Health Movement – Harpenden Duo Launch The Metabolic Way
Sometimes the best ideas begin with a simple conversation. For Harpenden residents Katharine Tate and Rose Butler, it was a chat at the Harpenden Society AGM that sparked a shared vision and now, just months later, the two are launching a brand-new health programme right here in town.
On Tuesday 30th September 2025, their creation, The Metabolic Way will begin its first 12-week journey to help local people take control of their energy, weight, mood, sleep, and long-term health.
Both women bring deep expertise to the table. Katharine, known nationally as The Food Teacher™, is a Registered Nutritional Therapist, Health Coach, Author, and Educator. Rose is a Registered Dietitian specialising in Metabolic Health, with a background in Applied Biology. Together, they’ve designed a programme that combines the latest science with practical, everyday strategies anyone can follow.
Rose explains; “Your metabolic health is how well your body turns food into energy.” “When it’s working well, your blood sugar, insulin, cholesterol and blood pressure are all in a healthy range. You’ve got steady energy, a better mood, and your body burns fat when it needs to.”
Unfortunately, poor metabolic health is more common than many realise, and can be linked to issues such as tiredness, sugar cravings, stubborn weight gain, poor sleep, inflammation, and can increase risk of chronic diseases.
That’s where The Metabolic Way comes in. Over six expert-led sessions (1.5 hours each) spread across 12 weeks, participants will learn a food-first, low-carb approach that works with the body, not against it. The course includes group support, practical activities, resources, and ways to track progress so participants can see real results.
Katharine says the idea is to make good health achievable for everyone; “This isn’t about fad diets, which I hear about time and time again in my clinic or unrealistic targets. It's about giving people the tools, knowledge and confidence to make changes that will last. And we’ll be there every step of the way.”
The programme has also been endorsed by Dr Anna Benson, Medical Director at Visage Medical in St Albans who added; "We are in need of good scientific advice and guidance for improving our health and wellbeing in terms of nutrition and metabolism. So many struggle with hormones, thyroid, pancreas and other metabolic problems."
For both Katharine and Rose, it’s all about community and making a difference. “We love Harpenden,” Katharine smiles. “Launching here first means we get to support our own community before taking it further afield.”
The Metabolic Way starts Tuesday 30th September 2025 in Harpenden. There is also a waiting list for a January 2026 daytime and evening course. More details and sign-up information are available at www.themetabolicway.com
