Chair's Column​

At this time of year, around Valentine's Day, you start to see people tweeting using the #loveMyNHS hashtag

This is usually the time of year at lot of us start thinking about our health, whether that be New Year's resolutions to lose weight, exercise more or stop smoking

Many of us are preparing for Christmas – making lists, going shopping and organising festivities

The cold weather brings common illnesses like coughs, colds, tummy bugs and ear infections

Whether you've tried to quit before or are trying for the first time, you're more likely to give up smoking with the right support.

Extending the vaccine to boys builds on the success of the girls’ programme and could prevent over 100,000 cancer cases.

Many of us welcome periods of warm summer sunshine, but when temperatures do start to soar – as they’ve done recently – it’s important to be prepared so that hot weather doesn’t harm you or anyone you know.

With measles and mumps circulating, it is crucial to make sure you and your family are up to date with your MMR vaccine. It's never too late to do so!

Digital technology in the NHS: we want tech innovation to complement the personal care that patients want and value.

Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week, Jonty focuses on body image and how overwhelming pressure to look 'perfect' can sometimes lead to more serious health and wellbeing issues.

In his latest Southwark News column, Jonty puts Type 2 diabetes in the spotlight; explaining that the condition can be prevented altogether with small lifestyle changes and support from your local NHS.

In her guest column, Dr Zoe Williams urges women and people with a cervix to attend their smear test when invited. She also outlines ways to reduce any anxiety, fear or embarrassment and make the test more comfortable.

Jonty introduces readers to Kooth - a free online counselling service for young people, which offers users a whole range of tools to help and support them with mental health and wellbeing concerns.

Jonty urges local people to take part in the #SmearForSmear campaign to raise awareness of and help prevent cervical cancer. He and the CCG team lead by example - donning the lipstick themselves!