A new series of short videos to help improve understanding of cancer and screening among people with a learning disability has been launched.

The videos, created by ARCH PCN and Belper PCN, cover a range of topics including bowel, breast and cervical cancer, as well as testicular and ovarian cancer. They also include a wider overview of cancer screening and a powerful personal story in Matthew’s Mum’s Story.

Co-designed with people with lived experience, the videos have been developed to be clear, practical and easy to understand. They focus on real questions and everyday concerns, and feature trusted NHS staff such as practice nurses and GPs.

We hope the videos help build confidence, encourage conversations and support earlier access to screening and care across our communities.

Jodie Cook, PCN Development Lead for ARCH PCN said,  “People with a learning disability can experience a range of challenges when it comes to engaging with health information and attending screening, from information that can be difficult to interpret, to uncertainty around what will happen during appointments.

 “Because of this, there is a real risk that important health messages are not always received in the way they are intended, which can contribute to inequalities in access and outcomes. It has been fantastic to work so closely with our learning disability representatives on this project. Their input has been crucial in shaping the content and ensuring it is meaningful.

“We are also very grateful for the support and collaboration of Derbyshire Healthcare Foundation Trust and the Robin Cancer Trust. By working together, we’ve been able to develop something that we hope will make a genuine difference”.

Colleagues and partners are encouraged to watch the videos and share them with patients, carers and communities, as well as using them in groups and local services."

New Connections Groups

The New Connections team has established a number of new, informal, social groups in the Derbyshire Dales. These are: –

Ashbourne – Live well with Pain

Third Thursday, 2.00-4.00pm at the Elim Church Ashbourne

Wirksworth – Live well with Pain

First Thursday of the month, 10.00-12.00noon, at the Eco Centre, Wirksworth

Matlock Good Company Café

Baslow Carers Café

First Tuesday in the month at the Wheatsheaf Pub in Baslow.

Wirksworth Carers Café

Bakewell Forget Me Nots – for anyone with dementia or memory loss – or if you know someone with dementia or memory loss

Hathersage Forget Me Nots – for anyone with dementia or memory loss – or if you know someone with dementia or memory loss