Movember is a global campaign which quite simply asks you to pay attention to, talk about, raise funds for and most importantly raise awareness for men’s cancers and other men’s health issues. It’s important to be aware of the different health issues men suffer with, whether it be physical health or mental health. Did you know a lot of men won’t go to the doctors to get a problem checked as they are embarrassed and ashamed of their own body image? Stupid right? WRONG! According to Healthline “Many men admit they put off going to the doctor as long as possible, sometimes even when they’re experiencing life-threatening symptoms.” They also state: “Nearly two-thirds of respondents said they avoid going to the doctor as long as possible, and 37 percent said they withhold information from their doctors.” “Experts say this is an ongoing issue that keeps doctors from detecting life-threatening issues early, resulting in bigger health dangers and sometimes death. There is no need to be ashamed about going to the doctors especially if you believe there is a serious problem at hand, do not let others ideals define you as person. This world is as much about unity as well as it is about individuality.
Movember has had nothing but a positive effect towards its goal. Last year (2020) £99.5 million was raised for Movember! This is a perfect example of how human humanity can be, joining together to raise that much money in a month. Now where does this money go? Ill let Movember tell you. “These donations allow us to raise awareness, invest in vital men's health initiatives and run Movember each year. Globally, we're tackling some of the biggest issues affecting men: mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer” -Movember-
First thing you must do is register here. Now you have signed up you can decide whether your working alone or with a team! There are also other events available such as dodgeball tournaments, quizzes and fun runs. You can find more info on that here. https://uk.movember.com/events/
Now how do you get involved in MOVEMBER?
Category: General News
Have you been made Redundant???
You could get Funding for your Training and Development
ReAct is a funding scheme provided by the Welsh Government for anyone who's facing redundancy and lives in Wales.
It's a grant that funds qualifications and courses to aid your personal development, allowing you to bring your skills up-to-date and add valuable qualifications to your CV.
ReAct awards up to £1,500 to fund your training. You can split the funding between numerous courses and it can help you cover expenses while you train, like childcare and travel, if you need extra support.
All you have to do is chat to an adviser at Careers Wales who'll discuss your options, complete your funding paperwork and put you in touch with a training provider – that's where we come in.
Here at Ajuda we are committed to helping the Welsh Government and Careers Wales to deliver the ReAct retraining programme. We specialise in certain industries and topics, so when you're shopping around for the right course, be sure to check out all the courses we have available to you..
We can help you gain qualifications in:
- First Aid
- Mental Health First Aid (Adult and Youth courses available)
- Fire Safety
- Fire Marshal
- Leadership and management
- Business skills
- Education and training
- Customer service
- Health and safety
All of these courses and many more can be found here
What sets us apart from the competition?
We have a team of reliable dedicated, enthusiastic dedicated trainers ready to teach 24 hours a day, 7 days per week if required.
We can teach our courses through the medium of Welsh.
All our professional trainers hold full teaching qualifications.
Ajuda offer free First Aid Training to local school children.
Our exam papers are available in 14 different languages.
Our industry knowledge is extemporary
Where do I start if i want to access the Welsh Government's ReAct funding?
1. Call Careers Wales on 0800 028 4844 and make an appointment
Once you are booked in, all you need to do is turn up for a chat. This will be when you discuss what training is best suited to you. You'll have personal support from a specialist guidance adviser, who will help you look at your CV, discuss your work experience and map out your career ahead. They'll advise which courses you'd benefit from and you can tell them which skills you'd like to develop.
2. Help Careers Wales to fill out your application
You will now need to apply to the Welsh Government to access the £1,500 grant. Careers Wales fills out the forms on your behalf based on what you want to do and what's discussed in your meeting. They will make it really easy for your so you can concentrate on your future.
3. Pick who you want to deliver your course
There are a number of training providers that are ready to deliver courses through the ReAct retraining programme. Ajuda is one of the providers based in Cardiff Bay. All you will need to do is let us know that you have secured the grant and we will book you onto course your interested in.
4. The Welsh Government pays your course fees
You do not need to do anything.
Our team at Ajuda will contact Careers Wales and the Welsh Government, so the billing process happens completely behind the scenes.
5. Enjoy Your Training Course(s)
All you need to to is attend the course and enjoy learning new skills.
Contact Careers Wales today
We are ready to welcome you to our Learning Academy
Lockdown’s Effect on Health and Wellness.
In this blog post, we will look at the impact lockdown has had on people’s health and wellness.
Overall, the pandemic has been a terrible time for a lot of people, and although needed, the government lockdowns have had a detrimental effect on people’s health and wellness.
Increased Stress and Anxiety
Fear of the virus, the anxiety of losing one’s job, the stress of working from home; there are many reasons why people may be feeling increased feelings of stress and anxiety during these times.
Research has shown that in March 2020, when lockdowns first started, 49.6% of people reported an increase in high levels of anxiety.
Stress and anxiety can cause a range of health problems, including:
– Anger issues.
– Poor sleep.
– Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, and other harmful substances.
– Headaches and migraines.
– Depression.
– Increased blood pressure.
– Further health risks.
It is important to remember that stress and anxiety are not just feelings, they are physical changes that can be felt by the body.
Rising blood pressure, constricting blood vessels, increased hormones; these physiological changes can lead to a variety of further health problems.
Increased Loneliness
The experience of working-from-home, or being stuck in the house, has left many people with feelings of loneliness. And, as naturally social beings, feelings of loneliness can have an extremely negative impact on people’s health and wellness.
Studies have linked social isolation to higher risks of mental and physical conditions, such as high blood pressure, obesity, depression, anxiety, and many more.
Feelings of loneliness during lockdown have been particularly prevalent amongst young adults, with 50% of 16-24 years olds reported feelings of ‘lockdown loneliness.’
Work-related Issues
The relationship between work and health can not be underestimated. People who experience work-related issues, often also experience problems with their health and wellness.
For some, working from home has been somewhat of a gift. But for others, this has been a tough time of adaptation and change. It really depends on the individual.
Of course, many are now returning to their workplaces and offices. However, after a year of turmoil, returning to work can also cause stress and anxiety.
Essentially, returning to a job after a period of absence can be overwhelming and challenging.
Overall, employers and businesses must support their staff during these difficulties, and make sure that they are ready to adapt.
Maintaining and monitoring Health and wellness in the workplace is essential.
In Conclusion
Again, although completely necessary, lockdown has had detrimental impact on people’s health and wellness. Stress, loneliness, depression, work-related anxiety; there many issues at play.
On a lighter note, it has not all been doom and gloom. There have been some positive impacts.
Some people have taken lockdown as a sign to prioritise their physical and mental health. Exercise is on the rise, and many more people are starting to see the importance of personal wellbeing.
Either way, now more than ever, it is important to show people support and help them overcome any issues. To reiterate, employers and businesses need to maintain and monitor employees’ health and wellness in the workplace.
What is CPR and why is it important? The medical technique performed on Christian Eriksen.
Many footballer fans and viewers from around the world were left shocked on the 12th of June, as renowned Danish footballer, Christian Eriksen, collapsed on the pitch in Denmark’s Euro 2020 match against Finland.
It has since been confirmed that the sportsman had suffered from a cardiac arrest.
Luckily, a team of medical professionals were able to swiftly treat the athlete and perform the CPR technique, undoubtedly saving him.The lifesaving actions of both the players and medical professionals serve as a reminder of just how important learning first aid and CPR is.
What is CPR?
CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.
It is a first-aid technique that involves performing chest compressions and rescue breaths on the victim. Essentially, this action replaces the role of the heart and lungs, pumping blood and oxygen around the victim’s body.
This life-saving technique can be used in emergencies such as hearts attacks or a near-drowning, wherein the victim’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped.
It is recommended that individuals perform CPR even if they are somewhat unsure of how to do so. But, of course, first-aid training and CPR knowledge is extremely important.
How do I perform CPR?
If you witness a cardiac arrest, you must call 999 and start CPR immediately.
Due to the current pandemic, the British Heart Foundation has made some minor changes to how CPR is to be performed, but here are the current steps:
Step 1: Shake and shout for help.
Step 2: Call 999.
Step 3: Don't put your face close to theirs. If you think there's a risk of infection, use a towel or a piece of clothing and lay it over their mouth and nose.
Step 4: Give chest compressions only – do not give rescue breaths.
Step 5: Continue until an ambulance arrives.
Step 6: After the ambulance has taken over wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand gel.
Learning CPR is invaluable and can potentially save a life.
Click here to watch BHF’s guide on giving CPR during the coronavirus pandemic.
Book onto one of our fully accredited courses today
Contact us on 02920576883 or email admin@ajuda.org.uk
Changes have been made to the training you now need for a front-line SIA license.
Security Industry Authority (SIA) front-line license holders will be required to complete compulsory first aid training.
As you may or may not be aware, from the 1st of April 2021, Door Supervisor or Security Guard license applicants will now be required to complete first aid training.
In addition, those looking to renew their SIA license will be required to complete training from the 1st of October 2021.
More specifically, front line SIA license holders will be required to complete an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification (or an equivalent) before training to be a door supervisor or security guard.
Why is the SIA making these changes?
The SIA has decided to make these changes to keep the public safe and improve the skills of license holders.
Those working in the private, front-line security industry must understand how to both follow new working practices and make the best use of new technology.
Do I have to have the first aid training before I do my door supervisor or security guard top-up training?
To clarify, the SIA has clearly stated that both new license applicants and those looking to take top-up training will be required to complete Emergency First Aid at Working training (or equivalent training).
Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work (RQF)
Here at Ajuda, we can provide the Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work (RQF).
Furthermore, this Regulated Qualification is ideal for anyone wishing to become an SIA license holder and provides learners with the skills and knowledge to deal with first aid situations in a low-risk workplace environment for the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.
On completion of this course, delegates will be able to:
1. Understand the role and responsibilities of a first aider.
2. Be able to assess an incident.
3. Be able to manage an unresponsive casualty who is breathing normally (recovery position).
4. Be able to manage an unresponsive casualty who is not breathing normally (CPR).
5. Be able to recognise and assist a casualty who is choking.
6. Be able to manage a casualty with external bleeding.
7. Be able to manage a casualty who is in shock.
8. Be able to manage a casualty with a minor injury.
We want to work with you.
At Ajuda, we have been delivering accredited First Aid qualifications for the security industry since 2006, and we have already welcomed many SIA License Holders since the start of 2021 in preparation for the proposed changes mentioned above.
We thrive on watching all our candidates succeed and we have a 98% pass rate on all accredited qualifications.
Above all, our prices are highly competitive, starting at just £795 + vat per group of 12 delegates. That is only £66.25 per person for a fully accredited qualification in first aid.
What is even better, is the fact we will come to your place of work and train your staff in a venue of your choice; at a time and date that best suits your needs.
We can help you be ready for the changes that are about the come.
Click Here
Or contact Kris in the office –
Tel – 02920576883 Email – Admin@ajuda.org.uk
Our Guide to Promoting Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace.
Ajuda’s absolute guide to promoting health and wellbeing within a business.
Ultimately, encouraging health and wellbeing in the workplace can vary from simple changes and small investments to staff training and wellness programmes.
The main idea is to foster a supportive environment that advocates for communication, confidence and health. It is about enhancing social interactions, building personal skills, and valuing employees.
Why should businesses promote health and wellness?
Apart from the obvious benefits, there are many reasons why organisations should promote health and wellness.
Business advantages that come from promoting health and wellbeing in the workplace, include:
Increased productivity.
Enhanced staff decision-making capabilities.
Reduced risk of long-term health problems.
Fewer sick leave and absenteeism.
Reduced employee turnover.
Improved talent attraction.
Better company culture.
Increased ROI on training.
Healthy employees have better morale, motivation, and concentration. Quite simply, workers can make far better decisions when they are happy and healthy.
On average, healthy workplace environments are 15% more productive.
So, how do businesses create a healthy work environment?
There are numerous ways to promote health and wellbeing in the workplace, and each company will have their unique strategy.
However, here are some steps we think every organisation should take
Establish a workplace commitment.
Firstly, it is important to establish an agreed commitment.
From the management team to the employees, everyone needs to get on board and commit to achieving a healthy workplace environment.
Additionally, businesses should also seek to get everyone involved.
Allow employee voices to be heard. Do they have concerns? Can they identify areas that need improvement? Do they feel comfortable with the current work-life balance? Do workers feel like they can talk about their health problems to the management team?
Next, formulate a plan.
Take employee feedback onboard and identify key areas for improvement. Then, formulate a plan that addresses existing issues or problems.
For example, if employees identify that there are no healthy options in the cafeteria, then perhaps the plan can focus on this.
If employees report high levels of stress, then this area needs to be addressed.
If workers feel like they cannot talk about their mental health problems to the management team, then perhaps communication within the workplace needs to improve.
When creating your plan to promote health and wellbeing in the workplace, be sure to keep things relevant to your workers’ specific needs.
Take action.
Make changes that benefit your employees.
Give them the correct training and education to ensure success.
But remember, some changes will take time to take effect, and workplace culture cannot change overnight.
Overall, if businesses commit to making positive changes, and carefully plan their actions, then they should be able to successfully encourage health and wellbeing in the workplace.
What simple changes can businesses make?
Check out our previous article to find out 5 simple things businesses can do to improve health and wellbeing in the workplace.
To summarise, here are 5 changes we think businesses can make today:
– Promote a healthy diet.
– Encourage exercise.
– Show praise and recognition.
– Improve employee’s work-life balance.
– Educate employees on physical and mental health.
National Hygiene Week 14th – 20th September 2020
This week marks National Hygiene Week
A week which aims to highlight the very real problem of hygiene poverty across the UK. An estimated 14m people in the UK are said to be facing hygiene poverty – being unable to access the basic items needed to keep clean, be they shower gel or soap, toothbrushes or sanitary protection. And in light of the coronavirus pandemic, the situation is only going to get worse.
What is National Hygiene Week?
National Hygiene Week, which runs from September 14-20, brings hygiene poverty into focus through events and challenges aimed at raising awareness of the issue. The campaign is run by The Hygiene Bank, a charity which was founded by Lizzy Hall after seeing the Ken Loach movie I, Daniel and realising that those living in poverty would be struggling to afford the basics of hygiene as well as other essentials such as food.. “It’s not right that keeping clean should be a luxury or a privilege for anyone in our society. Hygiene poverty exists, closer to home than you think, and it’s unjust,” says Lizzy.
What does The Hygiene Bank do?
The Hygiene Bank provides essential hygiene and personal care products to those living in poverty. The charity collects new, unused and in-date toiletries, hygiene basics, beauty, personal care and cleaning essentials, which are then distributed to those most in need.
Their donation policy is based around the mantra: ‘If you need them and use them, then it is likely someone else needs and uses them too,’ and they accept anything from deodorant to shampoo to razors to loo roll. The charity’s mission is ‘to bring communities together to tackle hygiene poverty by providing essential products to those of us locked in poverty.’
The Hygiene Bank accepts donations of new, unused and in-date toiletries, including hygiene, beauty and personal care essentials.
Here are some desperately needed items which you could donate:
• Toothpaste & Toothbrush (child/adult)
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Shower gel
• Razors
• Shaving foam
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush/hair ties
• Nit comb/nit shampoo
• Sanitary products
• Nappies
• Baby wipes
• Toilet roll
You can find out more at their website – where you can also find details of where and how you can donate.
Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid (Wales)
Training Course
WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID?
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an internationally recognised training course, designed to teach you how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions and provide help on a first aid basis.
WHAT WILL I LEARN ON THE COURSE?
What to say and do in a crisis.
Practice listening and responding.
How to apply the 5 steps of MHFA.
The importance of good listening skills.
Understanding recovery from mental health problems.
How to respond if you believe someone is at risk of suicide.
How to give immediate help until professional help is available.
Understanding the connection between mental health problems and alcohol and drugs.
Understanding the connection between mental health problems and discrimination.
Some basic information about common mental health problems Self-help
COURSE DATES
Sept 21st & 22nd, Oct 15th & 16th, Nov 17th & 18th, Dec 15th & 16th
HOW MUCH?
The cost of the course is £140 +VAT per person
Or £1,300+VAT for a group of 12
VENUE ADDRESS
15 Mount Stuart Square, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5DP
GET IN TOUCH
02920 576883 admin@ajuda.org.uk www.ajuda.org.uk
World Wellbeing Week 22nd – 26th June 2020
Now in its second year, World WellBeing Week provides the opportunity for participants worldwide to promote an overall awareness for the wide-ranging aspects of wellbeing, including social, physical, emotional, financial, career, community and environmental wellbeing.
It gives recognition to the professional practitioners in this burgeoning sector; and shines a light on charities and social enterprises working hard in their own specific areas of wellbeing.
It also provides a platform for the leading organisations of the world to highlight their wellbeing strategies and activities, and to demonstrate their appreciation for their valued employees, customers, partners and suppliers.
Held annually during the last week in June, World WellBeing Week aims to create an Awareness Week with a series of individual events and activities, culminating in the ‘Leaders in WellBeing Summit | Awards | Expo’ to celebrate the practitioners, charities, and employers who are leading the way in all aspects of wellbeing.
Following the success of our previous Mental Health and Wellbeing Show Online in May, we are now planning monthly sessions focused on improving standards of mental health and wellbeing.
On June 26th from 10am – 12pm, we will be holding a Zoom event focusing on Youth Mental Health, including topics such as additional learning needs, wellbeing methods, developing confidence and more.
Tickets are completely free, with amazing speakers presenting on the day.
Click Here and register for your free tickets NOW!!
We are Re-Opening July 6th
The time has finally come to re-open our doors and the Ajuda Team are super excited and ready to welcome you back to our wonderful Academy.
We would like to thank everyone for the efforts you have made to control the spread of Covid-19. Your patience and co-operation has played a vital role in getting us all back to where we need to be. There are still many things that we all need to do going forward in order to remain safe.
Here at Ajuda we have made some changes and implemented some extra measures to ensure everyone’s safety and protection.
- Social Distancing measures are in place throughout the building
- There will be limited spaces on our courses due to class size restrictions
- We will provide Bottled water and a sealed biscuit for your refreshment and enjoyment.
Our Commitment
- Cleanliness is our priority
- All areas will be Sanitised before and after each Training Course
- The 2 metre distance is clearly marked in training areas
Extra Facilities
- There is a hand washing area on the ground floor of the Academy
- Hand Sanitiser and Face Masks will be readily available in all classrooms
We ask that you observe and respect the Social distancing measures at all times.
Our friendly team is looking forward to seeing you soon
Carers Week 2020
Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK.
The campaign is brought to life by thousands of individuals and organisations who come together to organise activities and events throughout the UK, drawing attention to just how important caring is.
Here at Ajuda we have some really useful Online Training courses for you if you are are Carer
Just Click one of the images Below to find out more
Around 6.5 million people in the UK are carers, looking after a parent, partner, child or friend. A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who has a disability, illness, mental health problem or who needs extra help as they grow older.
Caring can be a hugely rewarding experience but sometimes carers find it challenging to take care of their own wellbeing whilst caring. The impact of caring on health and wellbeing should not be underestimated.
We have so many Online Training Courses available Just Click
here
Volunteer Week 1st – 7th June 2020
WHAT IS VOLUNTEERS’ WEEK?
Volunteers' Week takes place 1 – 7 June every year. It's a chance to celebrate and say thank you for the contribution millions of volunteers make across the UK.
During the coronavirus pandemic, many are focusing on supporting volunteers to take on coronavirus-related volunteering roles to help communities cope with the many consequences of coronavirus.
Although it is more important than ever for us to recognise support volunteers across the UK, we’ve decided it would be inappropriate to go ahead with many of the things we would usually do around this time.
WHY IS VOLUNTEERING IMPORTANT?
As well as helping others, volunteering has been shown to improve volunteers' wellbeing too.
It’s human nature to feel good after helping someone out. Volunteering can also help you gain valuable new skills and experiences, and boost your confidence.
Although it is more important than ever for us to recognise support volunteers across the UK, we’ve decided it would be inappropriate to go ahead with many of the things we would usually do around this time.
Time Credits are run by Tempo (formerly Spice), a charity that started in Wales in 2008 and now works across the UK. Our vision is for strong, connected communities where everyone’s time is valued, and we set up Time Credits networks to help achieve that.
Time Credits are a way of recognising the amazing things people do in their communities. If you’re in an area where we work, through giving time to your community you can earn Time Credits – which you can spend on hundreds of activities across our national network.
Everyone’s time is worth the same with Time Credits, and as well as spending them yourself you can take friends or family with you or give them some of your Time Credits to spend themselves.
There are lots of ways to earn Time Credits across your community, and hundreds of ways to spend them across the country. Have a look around our website for spending opportunities near you, and in other regions of the UK.
You can find more about Time Credits at www.wearetempo.org.
Use Time Credits at Ajuda
Time Credits can be spent on any online course. Due to direct costs incurred by Ajuda, these are available at 50% of the course cost plus the appropriate number of Time Credits. Courses 60mins / less – 1 Credit, Courses 61-120 mins – 2 Credits, Courses 121–180 mins – 3 TCs and so on. Contact Ajuda, stating you wish to use your Time Credits and they will take your booking.
Places near Cardiff where you can earn credits:
View the full list here
Keep Grangetown Tidy
Repair Cafe Cathays & Repair Cafe Splott
Global Gardens in Roath
Techniquest in Cardiff Bay
Promo Cymru
Breakfast Clubs (Various Locations)
Friends of Rhiwbina Library
Vale of Glamorgan Housing
Each activity is worth a different amount of time credits, which can be seen on the website. Tasks range from customer service, cleaning, administration work, gardening and more.
We really hope you find the perfect volunteering opportunity for you on the Tempo website, and hopefully we will see you spending some of your credits at our fantastic training academy in the near future.
We have many many courses to suit all of your training needs click here and find the ideal course for you
