Waiting Well is the term used to support people who are on a waiting list to see a healthcare specialist or get health and/or social care services. This is important as taking positive steps for health and wellbeing can help to:
Ease some symptoms
Manage or improve health
Stop new problems from starting
Improve health before your care – this may help you to get better faster
NHS Inform has information on a range of supports to help people “Wait Well”. This includes advice and support on activity and exercise, diet and nutrition, mental wellbeing, alcohol and smoking. It is also important to look at other practical needs that can impact on health e.g. money advice, home energy costs, cost of food, support in a caring role and social connectedness.
What is Prehabilitation?
Evidence shows that improving your physical and mental wellbeing can help you cope with what lies ahead. We call this prehabilitation, or prehab for short
As well as helping you to cope, Prehabilitation can help you to recover more quickly from surgery, and reduce the chance of developing other problems during and after treatment.
This includes advice and support on activity and exercise, diet and nutrition, mental wellbeing, alcohol and smoking. It is also important to look at other needs individuals may have e.g. money advice, home energy costs, cost of food, support in a caring role and social connectedness.
More information to support your health and wellbeing while waiting for an appointment/treatment can be found via NHS Inform – Waiting Well.
Prehabilitation
Prehabilitation is defined as pre-treatment rehabilitation and aims to help individuals get as fit and ready for their treatment as possible including:
supported self-management
improved physical function through smoking cessation, exercise, nutritional support and weight management,
optimised social connectedness and psychological wellbeing to improve recovery and
removal of socio-economic concerns through improved access to entitlements, money advice and removal of barriers to adoption of health behaviours.
Information for the public and professionals: Prehabilitation for Scotland – This website provides a range of information for both the public and professionals. Although this website talks mainly about cancer, much of this information is relevant to other conditions.
Pre-Operative Assessment
Pre-Operative Assessment – Information and resources on getting ready for surgery, FAQ’s information videos and information on different sites.
Realistic Medicine is about supporting people using healthcare services, and their families, to feel empowered to discuss their treatment. Realistic Medicine also promotes shared decision making and a personalised approach to care which are also values central to Prehab.
Holistic needs assessment (HNA) and care planning was first introduced by the National Cancer Survivorship Programme to help identify the concerns and needs of people living with cancer. The holistic needs assessment and care planning tool provides a useful framework for the basis of a person-centred discussion based on what matters to the person at that time. Used with appropriate training, information and knowledge of available supports to meet needs, the tool facilitates the following:
Identification of need / impact of wider determinants;
Self management, self-care;
Person-led care or goal-setting, health and wellbeing improvement;
Social-prescribing, mitigating impact of poverty and life circumstances;
Applied health improvement, developing the wider health improvement workforce, embedding health improvement in clinical care.
In recognition that many of the issues faced by people living with cancer are similar to those for people living with other life changing and/or deteriorating conditions, the Acute Health Improvement Team identified areas where this approach could be tested:
Parent/Carers within Royal Hospital for Children
People undergoing lower limb amputation at QEUH
People attending Physical Disability Rehabilitation Unit at QEUH campus
People attending for renal dialysis at IRH.
The concerns in the cancer focused tool required review with clinical colleagues to tailor concerns to meet the needs of each of the different groups. A monitoring and evaluation framework for the work was developed to ensure outcomes were captured.
In April 2017 tests of change were developed in adult acute services to determine how the HNA and care planning model works in adult hospital settings beyond cancer services. As a result, three locations were chosen, reflecting patients who were experienced permanent changes to their lives as a result of health conditions or traumatic events:
Renal Dialysis Unit, Inverclyde Royal Hospital,
Physically Disabled Rehabilitation Unit (PDRU), Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow
Ward 11A (lower limb amputees), Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow
Each location chosen was allocated a member of the health improvement team to liaise with them to facilitate the process in their location. This was in recognition of the fact that the implementation process was likely to be different in each location, reflecting the differing patient groups, nature of clinical interactions, and experience of conducting health behaviour change discussions in each clinical area.
The delivery model for implementing the Supporting People in Hospital approach varied amongst the three locations as follows:
Nurse led – Renal Dialysis Unit
Key worker led (both AHP’s and Nursing staff) – PDRU
Health Improvement Led from Support & Information Service – Ward 11A (and Ward 11D).
The HNA has been rolled out to further to Renal services at the QEUH with other areas planned. Over time, the completion of the tools has been incorporated into routine practice within these areas.
Below is a video clip of Katharine Montgomery, Staff Nurse, Renal Unit IRH talking about how the HNA has been implemented in their area.
An initial evaluation on the HNA was completed in July 2017 and a learning event took place October 2017 where findings were disseminated. The evaluation found that:
The patients welcomed this approach:
“It’s about helping me if I have anything that is worrying me”
“It gives me the chance to tell someone if I need help with things at home”.
“It gave me the chance to talk to my family about how I felt and for them to tell me how they felt too”.
The staff welcomed this approach:
“Our patients go out of here different to when they come in. They usually come in mobile and leave in a wheelchair. It’s a huge psychological as well as physical change and it affects every part of their lives. Nothing is the same for them anymore and this is a great opportunity for them to talk to someone about more than just their medical condition”
“Coming in here is a massive part of their weekly lives and they are exhausted. We talk to them about how they feel physically but they have many other issues – particularly money, so this is a really good way of helping them deal with things which are affecting them and their families”
Current projects
Macmillan Prehabilitation project
The West of Scotland Cancer Network (WoSCAN) was awarded funding from Macmillan Cancer Support to recruit Prehab Advocate posts in 4 heath boards to deliver a 14 month prehabilitation project. The health boards are NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde (NHSGC), NHS Ayrshire & Arran, NHS Lanarkshire and NHS Forth Valley.
In NHSGGC, 2 Prehab Advocates (Health Improvement Seniors) have been recruited and started in June 2024. The Prehab Advocates have started mapping current Prehabilitation provision in cancer services across NHSGGC. They will also coordinate and deliver improvement projects to support wider implementation of Prehabilitation approaches including:
Clinical pathways: Working across local health systems to use existing screening tools for prehab referrals, and making links with services already in place delivering prehab.
Education and engagement: To support clinical teams to understand the benefits of prehab and raise awareness of existing prehab services, supported by the WoSCAN regional prehab education programme
Sharing good practice: Utilising and learning from the models of prehab practice in place within other constituent health boards, with an ambition to copy and embed similar projects in each Board, and increase available prehab offers for patients.
To find out more about this work please contact: Jane Grant, Health Improvement Lead, email: Jane.Grant6@nhs.scot
Please note that the C19-YRS App will be no longer free to use for symptom monitoring after the end of September 2025
What is Long COVID?
Long COVID is a term which includes both ongoing COVID symptoms and new symptoms which develop as a result of COVID-19 infection.
When the symptoms of COVID have not resolved or new symptoms have persisted beyond 12 weeks of initial infection, then it may be classed as Long COVID if all other medical reasons for the symptoms have been excluded or unlikely.
What are the symptoms of Long COVID?
There are many symptoms of Long COVID – the most commonly reported symptoms are:
Fatigue
Problems with memory or concentration (known as brain fog)
Muscle and joint pains
Breathlessness
Difficulty sleeping
Chest pain
Heart palpitations
Dizziness
Loss of taste and / or smell
Pins and needles or numbness
Rashes
Depression and anxiety
Feeling sick, diarrhoea, stomach aches, loss of appetite
At the moment there is no ‘cure’ for Long COVID, however, addressing and treating the symptoms can help manage them and improve quality of life.
Small lifestyle changes can often lead to improvements in the condition.
How to manage the symptoms of Long COVID
For many people with Long COVID, strategies and lifestyle changes help manage their symptoms. In time, many people feel that they have recovered from Long COVID without any additional assistance.
Below are some self management resources / links.
Long COVID Advice
The following pages have advice on the management of Long COVID and the symptoms and support for managing the condition.
Long COVID Workbook – downloadable booklet about management of Long COVID from NHS Scotland
Long COVID Physio – an international peer support, education and advocacy, patient-led association of Physiotherapists living with Long COVID and allies
C19-YRS – Long COVID advice. The NHS funded app is no longer free to use.
Long COVID Scotland – a volunteer-led charity run by people living with Long COVID on behalf of those living with Long COVID. Collectively advocate on employment and benefits, research and local and national policy.
NHS England COVID Recovery – 4-5 minute videos giving practical advice to help you recover from COVID-19. You can use them as self-management guides.
Long COVID and Diet – the association of UK Dietitians resource for dietary advice to support Long COVID
Friends and Family Leaflet – a leaflet you may wish to share with friends and family to help understand Long COVID and support you better
Fatigue is the most frequently reported symptom of Long COVID. There are some strategies which can help manage your energy – different ones work for different people. You may wish to try one at a time. The RCOT website has some practical ways to use the “5Ps” to manage your energy.
Sleep is important for replenishing energy levels and repairing the body. Many people with Long COVID feel that their ability to sleep and their sleep quality have got worse since COVID. The following pages help with advice and support to improve your sleep.
Brain fog is the term coined for those with memory and attention impairments. It is one of the most frequently reported symptoms of Long COVID and impacts on many daily activities. The following pages can give some helpful tips on how to manage these problems and ways to improve your memory and attention gradually.
Breathlessness has been one of the main symptoms of Long COVID and is often not caused by any damage to the lungs or respiratory systems.
Many people with Long COVID do not have any abnormality shown on x-ray or CT, but have debilitating symptoms of breathlessness.
The following pages have exercises and advice to improve the efficiency of your breathing if you have “dysfunctional breathing” or a “breathing pattern disorder”.
The breathing exercises may also be helpful if you have been diagnosed with anxiety, asthma or COPD, as an adjunct to medical management. There are also sections on cough management.
Your mental health is as important as your physical health – while you are recovering from COVID or living with the ongoing symptoms, it is understandable that many people feel a decline in their mental health.
It is important to address these issues to prevent worsening, and there are many ways to self-manage milder symptoms.
If your symptoms are worsening or you no longer feel that you can keep yourself or others safe, please contact your GP or call NHS24 on 111 or 999 depending on the severity.
The Long COVID Service is not a 24 hour service. Communication (email and telephone) is not monitored out of working hours
Breathing Space Scotland – a free, confidential, phone and webchat service for anyone in Scotland over the age of 16 experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.
Lifelink – can offer support to anyone who is struggling to cope with everyday stress or is feeling anxious or depressed. 1:1 counselling available and a Glasgow based service.
Samaritans – for anyone who’s struggling to cope, who needs someone to listen without judgement or pressure. This is for if you are in crisis or to prevent a crisis.
Daylight – clinically proven digital treatment that uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques to help people gain control over their anxiety.
Those with Long COVID often struggle to return to work, study or unpaid work. The following webpages offer support and advice about how to plan your return to work, what to do if you have not been treated fairly by your employer and where to turn if you are exiting work or seeking new employment.
ACAS – free, impartial advice on workplace rights, rules and best practice
Access to Work – Government based agency offering support to those with a disability
Jobcentre – Support and advice on benefits and employability
Action for ME – a useful leaflet with advise and working examples for returning and remaining at work.
The Advocacy Project – human rights based organisation that supports people to have their voices heard and be empowered to be involved in decisions that affect their lives
The Federation of Small Businesses – for those self employed or running smaller businesses – advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful voice heard in government
Govan Law Centre – a free legal resource – a charity challenging poverty, discrimination and disadvantage. They specialise in housing, landlord and tenant, homelessness, welfare rights, money advice, social services, consumer and debt
Wellness Action Plan (MIND) – an example of a plan which can be useful for maintaining or returning to work.
Financial Advice
People living with Long term conditions often need to reduce their working hours or stop working to manage their condition. This may inevitably have an impact on their finances. The following pages may be able to help and guide you to money management or signpost you to grant or benefits to help.
Support and Information Services (NHSGGC) – a service within the NHSGGC who can advise on financial, social, educational, lifestyle issues and support groups and guiding through the complaints process.
Citizens Advice Scotland – help for benefits, debt and money, housing, work, family, law and courts and immigration for those living in Scotland.
Money Matters – a Welfare Rights Service, financial capability service based in Glasgow.
VoiceAbility – support for those with Long Term Conditions – eg – advice for applying for Adult Disability Payment / ADP (previously known as Personal Independence Payment / PIP)
Palpitations / Dizziness
Some people with Long COVID have been experiencing palpitations – a sensation of fast or inconsistent heart beats in their chests or dizziness. In some cases this is cardiac related, but many have been medically assessed and the symptom is not due to any damage to the heart.
If you have this symptom and cardiac cause has been ruled out then this may be classed as dysautonomia. This is a condition which many people have and can be managed with the right advice and treatment.
With Long COVID, you may find that you struggle with the minimal amount of activity due to fatigue.
If you are at a level where you can manage your activities of daily living without a set back in your symptoms then you may be ready to consider gradually introducing some additional activities.
Please ensure you are not pushing beyond what your energy levels are tolerating and allow for at least 3 days after introducing a new activity before repeating or progressing, especially if you have Post exertional Symptom Exacerbation (PESE, also known as PEM). .
Consider what you have planned before and after the new activity and ensure you are using a paced approach (see fatigue section regarding the 5Ps).
Please stop or reduce what you are doing if your symptoms are worsening and re-evaluate if you are ready to be more active.
The following links will provide you with some ideas for introducing a new activity or exercise:
Live Active is a service which is available in the NHSGGC council areas. Your GP or an NHS clinician can refer you. There are Live Active advisors who help you build the confidence you need to make positive lifestyle changes. They will personalise their support to make sure it meets your needs. With one-to-one catch-ups and supported activity sessions. These sessions can be based at your local council gyms for those who live within NHSGGC. The vitality classes may be a good starting point for those struggling with finding a starting point for exercise with Long COVID:
The Scottish Ballet Long COVID programme helps posture, alignment and body confidence and its creative elements address your whole being
For people with noise sensitivity after COVID, many have found that noise Reducing earplugshelpful.
Visual decline – please refer to your local opticians
Visual sensitivity – some have found that wearing coloured glasses lenses relieving, or wearing a cap to be helpful to shade the light from above.
Practical Solutions
Ask Sara – Impartial advice about equipment to help make daily living easier
Kitchen Aids – A list of small aids that can support you when completing kitchen tasks
Household Aids – A list of small aids that can support you when completing kitchen tasks
Personal Care Aids – A list of small aids that can support you when completing personal care tasks
Driving
Certain medical conditions need to be declared to DVLA. Some symptoms of Long COVID may impact on your ability to concentrate or safely manoeuvre a vehicle. If you do not declare a new or worsening health condition or disability, it may result in a fine or prosecution. Please see the DVLA website for further information and an A-Z list of conditions.
Neurodiversity
These pages have adapted fatigue strategies for those who are neurodivergent (eg – Autism or ADHD).
If Long COVID symptoms are not improving with self-management within 12 weeks of using the strategies or if you are struggling to manage them, then your GP may refer you to the Long COVID Service (assuming they have excluded any other medical reason for your symptoms.)
The Long COVID Service
The Long COVID Service is led by Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Healthcare Support Workers.
We offer Long COVID assessment and management.
There are no doctors in the team and we are unable to prescribe medication or advice on treatments which are not evidence based or experimental.
The SIGN guidelines have evidence based, safe treatment options.
We aim to offer advice and coping skills, helping you to set goals to work towards.
Fatigue management
Sleep advice
Breathing assessment and treatment
Cognitive strategies to address brain fog
Mental health and wellbeing advice
Physiotherapy assessment for muscle or joint pains
Advice for returning to work / study, recommendations for employers
Goal setting to return to work / study / hobbies
Assessment for assistive adaptations
Financial advice
Carer advice
Group sessions for peer support
Who the Long COVID service is for
Any adult who is living with Long COVID (having symptoms for 12 weeks or more)
The service will only be for those over the age of 16
People who are not acutely medically ill
People who are physically, psychologically or mentally impacted by their long COVID symptoms
People who are able to learn ways to manage their condition using Supported Self Management approaches
What will the service offer?
Help to improve, manage and live with Long COVID symptoms using a Supported Self Management Approach
Appointments in a way that suit people by video, telephone or in person at a clinic or home appointments
Time limited individual or group interventions
Support, treatment and strategies to help improve quality of life
Direct you to tools to help manage your condition
Information for referrers / GPs
Direct referrals will be accepted from GPs, Specialty Consultants and AHPs
GPs please refer via SCI.
AHPs and consultants can refer using this document if there is no access to SCI gateway:
Please ensure that patients meet the criteria:
Inclusion criteria
12 weeks symptoms persist following initial confirmed (PCR or LFT) or probable COVID-19 (decision made on best clinical judgement).
Patients who had a prolonged hospital stay due to COVID-19.
Patients who did not require hospital admission but have persistent or new COVID-19 symptoms 12 weeks post initial infection.
Patients with ongoing respiratory, neurological, functional, psychological or cognitive issues caused by COVID-19 disease 12 weeks post initial infection
Any other possible reasons for symptoms have been appropriately investigated
Exclusion criteria
Symptoms lasting less than 12 weeks.
Patients with suspected or confirmed active COVID-19.
Other medical conditions that may present with similar symptoms i.e. symptoms that are not Long COVID.
Patients with co-existent active cancer that would be best managed by the cancer pathway.
Patients with severe frailty.
Patients in the end of life period.
Patients with palliative care needs.
Patients who are in mental health crisis.
Patients living outside NHSGGC boundary
May be discussed
Patient is resident in a nursing home.
Ongoing medical investigations for other conditions.
Patient is receiving long term oxygen therapy.
Patients needs are being met elsewhere (eg community respiratory team).
Information for patients
Please speak to your GP if you think this service could help you.
If you meet the criteria then your GP can refer you directly and you will receive a questionnaire by text, email or by post to complete once you reach the top of the waiting list.
Please read the following before attending for the first time:
Moving Forward Together – Implementation Strategy workshops with our staff.
Based on the MFT principals established pre-COVID and taking into account any lessons learned during the pandemic, a number of engagement workshops have taken place across NHSGGC services to progress our Moving Forward Together (MFT) Strategy.
The workshops enable us to liaise with our clinical staff to consider the clinical model and the physical infrastructure required to achieve the objectives as set out in the MFT strategy.
In the coming months, we will review the feedback from these workshops and provide updates on this webpage when appropriate.
What is Moving Forward Together
The Background
The way that healthcare and social care services in Greater Glasgow and Clyde are provided is changing.
Prior to the pandemic we began working together with patients, the public, staff and other stakeholders to develop plans for a better, modernised, healthcare and social care system in line with the Scottish Government’s vision and to allow us to keep pace with national and regional developments.
This new system of care will be organised in the most effective way to provide safe, effective, person-centred and sustainable care to meet the current and future needs of our population. New ways of working will be developed which provide safe, effective and patient centred care, make best use of available resources and the opportunities created by innovation and technology.
The ‘Moving Forward Together’ strategy provides a clear plan for change to make this a reality. Delivery of the Programme will see improvements in care and outcomes for everyone.
You can use these pages to keep up to date with the Moving Forward Together Programme across NHSGGC.
Here you will find helpful information around the topic of nutrition – why it is important to eat a healthy balanced diet, where you can find access to food support in your area and some helpful resources, hints and tips to help you make healthier choices.
Following a healthy, balanced diet ensures our bodies receive all essential nutrients to work well day to day, and to help reduce the risk of developing dietary diseases like heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes and some types of cancers.
Food and Nutrition Support
General Healthy Eating Resources
A range of resources designed to help you make healthier choices.
Good nutrition is essential in the early years of life to provide young babies and children with the vital nutrients required for growth and development and to encourage healthy eating habits for later in life. Below are a range of resources which are helpful for any parent or carer beginning to introduce solids, as well as some information on the free Vitamin D drops scheme and oral health for children.
If you or someone you care for has Type 2 Diabetes or you have recently been diagnosed with Prediabetes or Gestational Diabetes and are looking for further support, please visit the Type 2 Diabetes Hub where you can find out about our services and access useful resources.
The current cost of living crisis presents an ongoing challenge for many individuals and families across Scotland. The Scottish Government have launched a new website, Cost of Living support, to help people find the support they may be entitled to. Use the links below to find out what support is available in your local area.
Best start foods – A prepaid card which can be used online or in shops to pay for healthier items like fruit and milk as well as first infant milk, if you are pregnant or have a child under 3. Use the link to find out more information.
Best Start Grants – One off payments made at key stages during your pregnancy and child’s early years: Pregnancy and baby payment, early learning payment and school age payment. Use the link to find out more information.
Glasgow City Food plan
Glasgow City Food Plan is a holistic 10-year plan aiming for Glasgow to be recognised for its good food and as a city where tasty, healthy, affordable food is accessible to everyone. The plan has 6 themes and is based around 3 overarching pillars – Equity, Sustainability and Health
All schools play an important role in promoting healthy eating habits to children from an early age and providing healthier food and drink choices. Schools should focus on integrating consistent healthy eating messages within classroom settings and carrying these forward to families, parents and carers. By following this whole school approach, children, young people and their families are given the opportunity to have the best start in life, helping to reduce diet related health inequalities
All children at local council schools can get free school meals during term-time in primary 1 to 5, your family’s financial circumstances do not matter. Please visit your local council website to find out more about free school meals and clothing grants.
Food a fact of life – Free resources for teaching young people aged 3-16 years about where food comes from, cooking and healthy eating. Resources include recipes, activity packs, lesson plans and more. Food Standards Scotland – Curriculum for Excellence linked activities to feed into lesson plans and deliver food safety and healthy eating messages. Eat, Move, Learn – World Cancer Research Fund resources for children aged 7-11 years to learn about healthy eating and keeping fit. Food waste whole school teaching resources | Zero Waste Scotland– Resources created for the school curriculum
Growing in schools
Below you will find a range of resources which are appropriate for teaching and learning about growing, climate change, cooking and foraging. Glasgow Community Food Network– Learn about Food and climate change, growing, cooking and foraging. Glasgow City Council – Food growing strategy webpage has information on the let’s grow together fund, an introduction to horticulture and the city wide growing strategy. World Cancer Research Fund– Learn how to grow fruits and vegetables within the school environment.
Training
NHSGGC offer a range of training opportunities including accredited REHIS courses. Please get in touch with ggc.communityfoodnetwork@ggc.scot.nhs.uk to find out more.
Food, sustainability and reducing food waste
Scotland aims to reach net zero carbo emissions by 2045. This will be a lot more achievable if we start to make small changes to our everyday living such as eating more sustainably and reducing food waste.
Food planning, correctly storing foods and shopping smarter can all help to reduce food waste, shopping bills and carbon footprint.
As we age, our sense of taste and smell can change which may affect our appetite, the variety of foods we enjoy eating and interest in food. Despite this, it is important to still maintain a balanced diet to ensure our bodies have enough energy to function as normal. Below are a range of resources which are useful for anyone aged 65+ or caring for an older person who has concerns about appetite, unplanned weight loss or eating well.
Selection of vegetables, such as mushrooms, peas, carrots or whatever vegetables you have
400g tin chopped tomatoes
1 small onion, chopped
Optional: 1 garlic clove, chopped
1 tsp mixed herbs
Tip: Blend sauce for a smooth consistency. This can also be used as a base for other tomato-based sauces such as bolognaise Bolognese, lasagne or pizza sauce.
Method
Weigh pasta into a large microwaveable container and pour over 500ml boiling water or enough to cover 1 inch above the pasta.
Cover, leaving space for ventilation and microwave on HIGH (800W) for 5 minutes.
Remove. Stand for 2 minutes, drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, chop and prepare the vegetables.
Place vegetables into a different microwaveable container. Add chopped tomatoes and mixed herbs. Stir.
Cover, leaving space for ventilation and microwave on HIGH (800W) for 4 minutes
This cook-a-long video demonstrates how to cook a healthy family meal from scratch using the ingredients found in the description below. The video can be paused at any time and accessed from a mobile, tablet or computer.
(Recipe provided by Donna Borokinni)
Serves 4
Prep:10 mins
Total cook time: 10 mins
Ingredients
· 100g self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting · 100g natural yoghurt · ½ teaspoon baking powder
Method
Add the ingredients and mix until combined. Use clean hands to bring the mixture together.
Dust a clean surface with the extra flour. Knead the dough for a minute until a dough forms.
Roll the dough and divide into 4 equal-sized pieces. Flatten with your hands to resemble flatbreads (similar thickness to a 50p piece).
Heat a frying pan and add flatbread dough once hot. Cook on each side for 1-2 minutes.
Serve warm.
Greek Salad Pitta Sandwich
Greek Salad Pitta Sandwich
This cook-a-long video demonstrates how to cook a healthy family meal from scratch using the ingredients found in the description below. The video can be paused at any time and accessed from a mobile, tablet or computer.
Serves 4
Total cook time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
· 4 wholemeal pitta breads, toasted · 140g feta cheese, drained and diced · 1 yellow pepper, diced · 2 medium salad tomatoes · 1/3 large cucumber, diced · 2 tablespoons of olive oil · 1 lemon
Method
Wash and chop the tomatoes, pepper and cucumber and place into a bowl.
Cut the feta into small chunks
Half the lemon and mix the olive oil and juice of the lemon together in a bowl to make the dressing.
Add the tomatoes, pepper, cucumber and feta to the dressing and mix.
Toast the pittas and slice in half.
Add the mixture using a slotted spoon (to avoid soggy bread). Serve
Chickpea curry
Chickpea curry
his cook-a-long video demonstrates how to cook a healthy family meal from scratch using the ingredients found in the description below. The video can be paused at any time and accessed from a mobile, tablet or computer.
(Recipe provided by Nutrition Scotland)
Serves 4
Total prep and cook time: 45 mins
Ingredients
· 1 large onion · 1 tin of chickpeas, drained (400g) · 1 tin of reduced-fat coconut milk (400g) · 2 tablespoons curry paste or powder · 2 tablespoons of tomato puree · 1 tablespoon of ginger, peeled and grated or finely chopped · 1 tablespoon of oil · 2 large handfuls of spinach, washed · Handful of fresh coriander, finely chopped
Method
Chop the onion, ginger and garlic. Set the ginger and garlic aside. Preheat the oil in a large pot and add the onion. Fry on a low heat for 10-15 minutes until soft. Add some water if the onions start to stick.
Add the curry paste/powder, garlic, ginger and tomato puree and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add the coconut milk and drained chickpeas and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Add the spinach and stir. Stir through the coriander (optional).
Serve with flatbreads, wholegrain rice or pitta bread.
Chicken Korma
Chicken Korma
This cook-a-long video demonstrates how to cook a healthy family meal from scratch using the ingredients found in the description below. The video can be paused at any time and accessed from a mobile, tablet or computer.
(Recipe provided by Diabetes UK)
Follow the link for more helpful information.
Total prep and cook time: 35 mins
Ingredients
· 2 chicken breasts, chopped · 1 onion, chopped · 150g natural low-fat yoghurt · 2 tablespoons korma curry paste · ½ tin chopped tomatoes (200g) · 2 tablespoons flaked almonds, toasted · 1 tablespoon ground almonds · Rice, pitta or other to serve
Method
Chop the onion and set aside.
Chop the chicken using a separate chopping board. Remember to wash your hands when handling raw meat.
Add the onions to a pre-heated pan with oil and fry for 4-5 minutes until soft. Add the curry paste and fry for a further 2 minutes.
Add the tomatoes and bring to the boil. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat and blend the sauce until smooth.
Return the pot to the heat and add the chicken. Simmer gently for 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (white throughout).
Stir in the ground almonds and yoghurt. Heat gently without boiling,
Toast the almonds in a frying pan.
Serve the curry with rice or naan bread and top with flaked almonds.
Banana Pancakes
Banana Pancakes
This cook-a-long video demonstrates how to cook a healthy family meal from scratch using the ingredients found in the description below. The video can be paused at any time and accessed from a mobile, tablet or computer.
For more healthy eating support please visit:
https://www.nhsggc.scot/your-health/p…
(Recipe provided by Parent Club)
Serves 4
Total cook time: 10 mins
Ingredients
· 1 large banana · 2 medium eggs · 2 tablespoons of plain flour (60g) · Teaspoon of cinnamon · Suggestion to serve: natural or Greek yoghurt, fresh, tinned or frozen fruits.
Method
Peel and mash the banana in a large bowl. Add the eggs and mix well.
Sieve the flour into the mixture and mix well.
Heat a non-stick frying pan and add the mixture with a tablespoon.
Flip the pancakes when bubbles start to appear or when golden brown.
Continue until all the mixture has been used.
Serve with desired toppings.
Spicy butternut squash soup
Spicy butternut squash soup
This cook-a-long video demonstrates how to cook a healthy family meal from scratch using the ingredients found in the description below. The video can be paused at any time and accessed from a mobile, tablet or computer.
Add oil to a large pot to heat. Add onion, garlic and chilli. Fry for 4-5 mins or until onions have softened.
Add squash to the pot and fry for 1 minute.
Add the curry paste and stir. Fry for 5 minutes until vegetables are coated.
Crumble the stock cube into the pot and add the 200ml boiling water. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
Take the pot off the heat and blend. Stir through the coconut milk and serve.
Rice Pudding
Rice Pudding
This cook-a-long video demonstrates how to cook a healthy family meal from scratch using the ingredients found in the description below. The video can be paused at any time and accessed from a mobile, tablet or computer.
(Recipe provided by Donna Borokinni)
Serves 1
Total cook time: 15 mins
Ingredients
· 2 cups of cooked long-grain rice · 1 cup semi-skimmed milk · 1 tablespoon of cinnamon · 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional) · Suggestions to serve: fresh, tinned or dried fruit.
Method
In a large pot, combine the rice, milk and cinnamon
Cook uncovered over a medium heat until thickened, stirring occasionally for 20 minutes
Serve warm with desired toppings.
*This recipe can also be made in the microwave. Add all the ingredients to a bowl and microwave on full power for 2 minutes. Stir and return for a further 2 minutes. Allow to stand for 1 minute. Serve as above.
Courgette Fritters
Courgette Fritters
This cook-a-long video demonstrates how to cook a healthy family meal from scratch using the ingredients found in the description below. The video can be paused at any time and accessed from a mobile, tablet or computer.
(Recipe provided by Donna Borokinni)
Serves 2
Total prep and cook time: 14 mins
Ingredients
· 120g courgette, washed and grated · 1 large egg · 3 tablespoons plain flour · 50g frozen peas, thawed · 1 ½ teaspoon ground cumin · 1 teaspoon oil, for frying · ½ teaspoon baking powder · ½ teaspoon salt · Black pepper to season · 2 tablespoons plain natural yoghurt · 1 teaspoon mango chutney
Method
Wash and grate the courgette. Set aside and add salt.
In a bowl, whisk together the egg, baking powder, flour and cumin to make a batter. Season with black pepper.
Squeeze the excess water from the courgette and add to the batter with the peas. Mix until combined.
Heat oil in a frying pan and add heaped tablespoons of batter to the pan. Flatten with the back of the spoon and fry for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
To make the dip, combine the yoghurt and mango chutney in a small bowl.
Serve fritters warm with the dip.
How to microwave tinned sweetcorn
How to microwave tinned sweetcorn
Serves 1 Cook time: Follow cooking instructions on the tin
Method
Empty sweetcorn into microwaveable container.
Follow cooking instructions on the tin.
How to microwave broccoli
How to microwave broccoli
Serves 1
Cook time: 1 ½ – 2 minutes
Ingredients
100g broccoli
Splash of water
Method
Wash and chop broccoli into chunks.
Place into microwaveable container and add splash of water.
Microwave on HIGH for 1 ½ – 2 minutes.
How to microwave carrots
How to microwave carrots
Serves 1 Cook time: 2- 2 ½ minutes
1 carrot
Splash of water
Method
Wash and peel carrot (if required).
Chop into thin slices and place into a microwaveable container.
Add splash of water. Microwave on HIGH for 2-2 ½ minutes.
Microwave Manual
Wattage used for recipes
All recipes were tested using an 800W microwave. Remember to check the wattage of your microwave at home and adjust accordingly. If you are not sure about wattage or timings for your microwave check your microwave manufacturer guide or cook for a shorter duration and check regularly.
Adjusting portion size
If you adjust the portion size of the recipes, you will need to adjust the cooking time. For example if you cook 2 jacket potatoes at the same time, you will have to double the duration in the microwave.
Cooking tips
• Smaller pieces of food will cook faster than larger pieces. • Stir or turn food regularly to ensure the product is hot and to avoid hot and cold spots. • After food is cooked, allow 1-2 minutes standing time to avoid hot and cold spots.
Microwave safe containers
Ensure you are using suitable containers when using the microwave. The following are suitable for use: • Toughened glass • Ceramics • Some plastics – check to see if the container has a microwave label (see below for examples)
Suitable coverings for a plate, bowl or container; microwaveable container with a suitable lid, plate, parchment paper or cling film with holes pierced.
Metals must not be used in microwaves as this can cause sparking or flashing. This also includes wires, foil and dishes with gold or silver decorations. Some plastics must not be used in the microwave, check the container.
Handling hot food
When handling hot food from the microwave, some containers will have a suitable handle that does not transfer heat and therefore food can be taken in and out of the microwave with bare hands. However, some containers can get very hot and therefore use of a heatproof material is advised, such as oven gloves or tea towel.
Fresh Vegetables – approximate timings for 800W microwave
This section has information on help available to improve your digital skills and confidence
Supporting staff to be digitally literate is a high priority for NHSGGC. The new NHSGGC digital strategy Digital on Demand (2023-2028) acknowledges that staff need to be digitally literate and have the skills and confidence to be able to use technology to its fullest extent.
The Digital Skills and Literacy Programme Hub is your one-stop resource for training, support, and guidance on healthcare applications from eHealth. It offers learning from basic computing skills to getting the best out of clinical applications ensuring all users can make the most of digital tools, with help available whenever needed to improve digital capabilities.
Managing your health and being able to share experiences with people facing similar challenges
Accessing social networks online for support, guidance and friendship
Access to trusted information
Saving money on household bills and services by comparing different providers
Finding out what benefits/financial assistance you may be entitled to
Applying for and managing benefit
Attending virtual healthcare appointments
Where to get Digital Support
What sort of support is available?
The organisations listed provide support to develop skills and confidence in using digital devices, as well as directing you to places where a digital device can be accessed if you do not have one.
This includes support to:
Stay safe on line
Improve your skills and confidence
Access your local library for digital support and devices
Manage and apply for Benefits
Link in with Near Me video appointments
Use other online health and social care platforms, e.g. NHS Inform
Digital access can benefit other aspects of your life e.g. online shopping, banking and staying in touch with friends and/or family.
Libraries are places in communities to find trusted health and wellbeing information. The opening hours for libraries can be found on your Local Authority website.
The Alliance ( the national third sector intermediary for health and social care) produced this guide to support people to develop their skills, knowledge and confidence in using digital tools to support Health and Wellbeing.
Talking about trust in digital health
The Mhor Collective have produced a video to help you understand trust and safety when using a digital health website.
Find out more about the Mhor Collective and the human rights approach to digital health:
With the cost of living hitting hard, many people are looking at ways to save money.
Social tariffs are cheaper broadband packages that are affordable to people on low incomes.
If you are claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits, you may be able to get cheaper broadband.
If your provider offers this it is free to switch and the price won’t go up mid contract.
The Office of Communications has a page dedicated to social tariffs which include pricing examples, with social tariffs starting from £12 per month with a line rental included.
Click the link below to see if your provider offers a social tariff and how to apply for this.
There are 3 aspects that help the Good Things Foundation to deliver this:
National Device Bank– This is delivered through community partners and provides a refurbished device alongside mobile internet access. More information can be found here:National Device Bank – Good Things Foundation
National Data Bank – This is provides free mobile data, texts and calls to people in need via the Good Things Foundation network of local community partners, in partnership with Virgin Media 02, Vodafone and Three. This is like a ‘food bank’ but for internet connectivity data. More information ca be found here: National Databank – Good Things Foundation
Network – This is made up of thousands of community partners across the UK. They help people gain the support and skills they need to change their lives and overcome social challenges. More information can be found here: Our network – Good Things Foundation
Near me – Video Consultation Service
Many of us used video calling on our phones, tablets and laptops during the Covid-19 pandemic to keep in touch with friends and relatives. You can now also attend some health care appointments in the same way.
Near me is a video consulting service that enables you to attend some health care appointments from the comfort and convenience of home or other suitable location. The technology is safe and secure and is being used by many of our services. Near me is for pre-arranged appointments and your health care professional will provide you with the relevant information if a video consultation is offered.
Why use Near Me?
There are many benefits to video consultations including:
· No travelling time, parking worries or public transport issues
· No fares required for travelling
· Being in your own home is more relaxing than a clinic environment
· Less time out of your day
· Easier to have a family member or carer attend with you
· Reduced exposure to inclement weather
· Reduced exposure to infectious diseases
How do I use Near Me?
To use Near Me you will need a reliable internet connection; broadband or 3G/4G, and a suitable device for making video calls such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop or computer with webcam and speaker
Please use a WiFi connection for your call whenever possible. We want to make you aware that a 20 minute consultation will use approximately 230MB of mobile data. If you are on a limited mobile data plan this may cause you to exceed your permitted usage allowance.
The service is best accessed using the Google Chrome web browser on a PC or Safari on Mac (webcam required), or on an Android or Apple smartphone. You can find more information on the Near me website including how to make a test call.
What services can I access?
Many of our hospital and outpatient services are now using Near Me. Your GP services will also be able to offer you a Near Me appointment.
Your health care professional or clinician will advise you when your appointment is being arranged.
What if I don’t have a digital device and/or broadband and can’t access Near Me at home?
There are some Libraries across the Board area where a private room is available for Near Me. This will be rolling out further this year and an updated list of available Libraries can be found here.
Watch the video below to find out more about this service.
Patients in and around Johnstone can book a ‘Near Me’ space for virtual video consultation at Johnstone Library by phoning 0300 300 1188.
Patients in and around Paisley can can now book a ‘Near Me’ space for virtual video consultation at Ferguslie Library by phoning 0300 300 1188.
Near Me is used across NHSGGC and both Johnstone Library and Ferguslie Library provides a safe alternative to home and can support people at risk of digital exclusion. Patients have access to a private and confidential space with Library staff available to support patients with digital literacy needs.
Johnstone Library and Ferguslie Library provides a venue for ‘Near Me’ which allows patients to access the help they need without having to travel a significant distance from home.
What our staff and service users have said about Near Me
Our Podiatry service has been using Near me and has produced an evaluation of the experiences of patients and staff summarised in this infographic (pdf)
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