New lifestyle web directory

Residents and health professionals can visit www.improvemylifestyle.co.uk to find support to improve health and well-being. The webpage also encourages visitors to take a more active role in decisions about their care.

The directory was initially developed by Horizon Health Commissioning, a group of GPs in Bedfordshire, to signpost their patients to information and support following their NHS health check.

Following its success it has now been extended to cover the whole of Bedfordshire.

Muriel Scott, NHS Bedfordshire director of public health, said: “Self care is particularly relevant at the time of year when seasonal illness tends to be more prolific and demand on our healthcare services, such as A&E, increases.

“People often visit A&E with minor illnesses and injuries that could be better treated more quickly elsewhere, or even at home using simple remedies.”

Visit www.nhs.uk/selfcare or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 for information.