Community Champion Messages

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Half term and activities

If you need to manage your money carefully, there are still lots of things you can do in Portsmouth without having to splash out, including free museums, events and activities.

If you are looking for free or low-cost activities to do with the family this February half term, the Portsmouth City Council online Cost of Living hub offers a monthly programme of activities available in Portsmouth.

For more information search Low-cost activities and entertainment - Portsmouth City Council

Try a new activity or group in 2026

Are you looking to try something new in the new year but not sure where to start?

Portsmouth City Council runs a variety of activities and social groups that take place across the city. There's something for everyone - including cookery sessions, gardening, reading, walking, and culture and faith groups.

As well as taking part, there’s also opportunities to volunteer and help run the sessions.

For more information: Social activities and groups for adults - Portsmouth City Council

Food and Essentials

We know that after Christmas, budgeting to buy essentials or pay bills can be a stressful time.

Don’t struggle alone, help and support is available from a variety of organisations in the city.

Search the Cost of living hub for information that could help you and your family including,

• Help with food
• Low cost or free activities
• Paying bills
• Advice on budgeting or debt
• Looking for a job or developing skills

If you prefer to speak to someone, or if you have a friend or relative who isn’t online, you can call the Cost of Living helpline on 023 9284 1047. The helpline is available from 9am-5pm on weekdays (closes at 4.30pm on Fridays).

Childhood vaccinations

Children under 6 are now being offered the MMRV vaccine instead of MMR as part of the NHS routine childhood vaccination programme.

This replaces the existing MMR vaccine and adds protection against chickenpox, alongside measles, mumps and rubella.

You don’t need to do anything - your GP will contact you to arrange an appointment. To find out more Chickenpox vaccine - NHS

Choosing the right service for you

Knowing where to go when you or a family member becomes unwell can feel confusing but using the right service helps you get faster care and keep our Emergency Department free for life-threatening conditions.

There are a range of ways to get the help you need, including NHS111 online or by phone, Urgent Treatment Centres (UTCs), or your local pharmacy.

UTCs can treat many common urgent problems, including sprains, minor fractures, cuts, stomach pain, rashes and high temperatures.

Your nearest UTCs are:

• St Mary's Health Campus, PO3 6DW: 8am to 8pm
• Gosport War Memorial, PO12 3PW: 8am to 10pm
• Petersfield Community Hospital, GU32 3LB: 8am to 8pm

For life-threatening emergencies, call 999 or go to the Emergency Department.

You can find more information on where to go for urgent medical help on the Portsmouth Hospitals website: https://www.porthosp.nhs.uk/KnowWhereToGo

Mental health and smoking

You might think that when you're stressed, lighting a cigarette helps to calm you down. But actually, stopping smoking has been shown to lift your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance dopamine production... your natural happy hormone. 

The Portsmouth Wellbeing Service can help you live a healthier and happier life. 

We will work with you on your quit in your way, by phone on 023 9229 4001 or you can learn more here: www.wellbeingportsmouth.co.uk/free-support