Physical Health Away From Home

1. Everyday foundations

• Eat regularly where possible, with a variety of foods that suit your budget, culture and health needs.
• Drink fluids regularly and adjust for activity, weather and individual medical advice.
• Move in ways that are safe and comfortable for you; walking, stretching and gentle activity can all count.
• Make room for sleep, rest and recovery. Shift work, caring responsibilities and stress can make routines difficult.

There is no need to copy someone else’s diet or exercise routine. Adapt habits to your abilities and circumstances.

2. Finding healthcare in the UK

For information about registering with a GP, pharmacies, NHS services, screening and vaccinations, use the official NHS website. Availability, access routes and eligibility can differ across the UK.

For urgent medical help in England that is not life-threatening, check NHS 111 online or call 111. In an immediate life-threatening emergency, call 999.

Keep a list of medicines, allergies and important health information for appointments. Ask a healthcare professional before changing prescribed medicines.

3. Listen to changes in your health

Do not ignore symptoms that are new, persistent, worsening or concerning. Contact an appropriate healthcare professional for advice rather than relying on social media or self-diagnosis. Seek urgent help for serious symptoms.

If language or communication is a barrier, ask the healthcare service what interpreting or accessibility support is available.

4. Your gentle weekly health check-in

• Have I had enough opportunities to eat, drink and rest?
• Have I moved in a way that suits my health and ability?
• Is there an appointment, screening invitation or health concern I need to follow up?
• What is one realistic improvement I can make without spending unnecessarily?

5. Reflection — caring for my body

One habit that helps me feel physically well:

One health question I would like to ask a professional:

One manageable action this week:

Feeling unwell? Seek help and stay connected

Do not ignore symptoms that concern you. Contact your GP practice if you feel unwell, especially when symptoms are persistent, worsening or affecting daily life. If you need urgent help and cannot wait for a GP appointment, use the appropriate urgent care service. In England, NHS 111 can advise on urgent but non-life-threatening concerns. For a life-threatening emergency, call 999.

Keep someone you trust informed, if it is safe and you wish to. A family member or friend can check on you, help with appointments, collect essentials or offer emotional support. You decide what personal health information to share. If family contact is unsafe or difficult, choose another trusted person or professional service.

If you live alone, consider arranging a simple check-in with someone you trust when you are unwell.