As we start 2026, many of us are looking for ways to improve our health and wellbeing. While big resolutions can be hard to keep, the most lasting changes often come from small, manageable steps.
We are here to help you stay healthy and get the right care when you need it. Here are some simple ways to make 2026 your healthiest year yet.
1. Build Better Habits with NHS Better Health
Whether you want to lose weight, get active, or quit smoking, the NHS Better Health website and apps are excellent tools to help you get started.
- The Couch to 5K App: A great way to start running at your own pace.
- Healthier Families: Find easy recipes and “sugar swaps” to help your whole family eat better.
2. Get Help at Your Local Pharmacy
In 2026, your local community pharmacist can do more than ever before. Under the Pharmacy First service, you can get advice and prescription treatment for seven common conditions without needing to see a GP:
- Sore throats and sinusitis.
- Earaches (in children).
- Infected insect bites and impetigo.
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women.
- Shingles.
3. Take Control with the NHS App
Save time in 2026 by using the NHS App. It is the simplest way to manage your health from your phone:
- Order Repeat Prescriptions: No need to call the surgery; simply request your medication through the app.
- View Your Records: See your test results and immunisation history.
- Book Appointments: Manage your routine appointments at a time that suits you.
4. Mental Health Support: Every Mind Matters
If you are feeling stressed or anxious, you don’t have to wait for an appointment to get help. The Every Mind Matters platform provides a free “Mind Plan” quiz that gives you personalised tips to help you deal with stress and improve your sleep.
- Self-Referral: Did you know you can refer yourself directly to local NHS Talking Therapies without seeing a GP first?
5. Preventative Health and Vaccinations
Staying up to date with your vaccinations is the best way to avoid serious illness. You can check the full NHS vaccination schedule here.
- Flu and COVID-19: If you are eligible, ensure you have had your winter boosters.
- New for 2026: We are continuing the rollout of the chickenpox vaccine for toddlers and the RSV vaccine for older adults and pregnant women. Please contact the surgery if you have received an invitation to book.
Start Small Today
A healthier 2026 doesn’t have to start with a marathon. It can start with a 10-minute walk, a healthier snack, or downloading the NHS App.
Wishing all our patients a happy and healthy New Year!
For more information on any of these services, visit www.nhs.uk or speak to your local pharmacist.