Health and Wellbeing
If you have health problems for which you would like support, guidance or advice there are a number of organisations locally that can offer this. There are also organisations who specialise in supporting you if you have been bereaved, or need counselling or befriending services. Go to the Contacts section of this website to find organisations by area and by name. For any general health advice contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
There are also a very wide range of groups, meetings and clubs who promote well-being including exercise classes, adult education, 50+forums and various social activities. A lot of these are listed on the Derbyshire County Council website - Derbyshire County Council Community pages.
For other Groups there are websites that have Directory listings: www.ukselfhelp.info
If you take medication, there is scheme which will enable anyone who needs to know what medication you are on should you not be able to do so yourself. It is organised by Derwent Valley Lions Club and is called 'Message in a Bottle'. Ask at any Doctor, chemist or Age Concern in your area or contact the Lions on (01629) 582973.
For a various useful factsheets follow the Age UK link. .
Your health may also be being affected by your home. Perhaps you need some help looking after yourself or your home, for example gardening or maintenance jobs? Go to the Staying in Your Existing Home chapter for information about these services.
If you are struggling to pay your health costs and you are on Pension Credit (Guarantee) you can obtain exemption from payments for many items. If you are not entitled to Pension Credit (Guarantee) you may still be able to get some help towards health costs if you are a low income and have limited savings. You will need form HC1 to claim exemption. You may also be entitled to a refund of costs you have already paid. You will need form HC5 to claim a refund. Call the Help with Health Costs Helpline on 0845 8501166 for assistance and to obtain the claim forms.
