Self Care Week (17–23 November 2025) is all about empowering you to look after your health and wellbeing, both now and in the future. By making small changes and knowing where to turn for advice, you can feel more confident managing your health and making the most of NHS services.
What is Self Care?
Self-care means taking steps to stay healthy, prevent illness, and manage minor health concerns at home. It’s about making positive choices for your physical and mental wellbeing, and knowing when and where to seek help.
Key Messages for Self Care Week
- Visit your local pharmacy first for advice on minor health concerns such as sore throats, earache, or a stuffy nose. Pharmacists can even prescribe medicine for some conditions without you needing to see a GP.
- Keep your medicine cabinet up to date with essentials like painkillers (paracetamol or ibuprofen), a laxative, and a first aid kit.
- Take vitamin D supplements if you’re shielding or unable to get outside.
- Eat well and stay active to support your general wellbeing and immunity.
- Look after your mental health by staying connected, keeping perspective, and taking active steps to care for yourself.
- Get your winter vaccinations if you’re eligible. This includes flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
- Use NHS services wisely – pharmacies are a great first point of contact for many health concerns.
- Increase your health knowledge – learn how to manage common ailments and long-term conditions.
Who is Self Care Week For?
- People aged 65 and over, especially those with long-term health conditions
- Parents and carers of children up to age 16
- Everyone in South East London
Useful Links and Resources
- Self Care Forum – Self Care Week
- Find your nearest pharmacy offering free flu vaccination
- Your local pharmacist blog by Mrs. Patricia Tigenoah-Ojo
- NHSE Stay well this winter leaflet 2025
- “We are your NHS on the high street” video
- Self-care on Vimeo – Raj Matharu
Top Tips for Staying Well This Winter
- Get your winter vaccinations
- Keep your medicine cabinet stocked
- Stay in touch with friends and family
- Keep moving and eat well
- Get a good night’s sleep
If you have any questions or need support, please speak to a member of our team in confidence. We’re here to help you stay well this winter and beyond.