“Back to Basics” campaign reminds Western Isles residents of simple steps to better health

A new health promotion campaign, Back to Basics, is being launched across the Western Isles to remind people of the simple, everyday building blocks that support good health and wellbeing.

The campaign focuses on clear, practical information that many of us have heard before, but may not always remember or find easy to apply in day-to-day life. Topics include:

• What makes up a portion of fruit or vegetables, to help people reach at least 5-a-day
• Why it’s important to look after mental health, and simple ways to do so
• How active we should be, with suggestions for fitting activity into everyday life
• How much water we should be drinking, and how to recognise when we need more
• How many units are in different alcoholic drinks
• How much sleep adults should aim for, and tips to help get a good night’s sleep
• What makes a healthy snack, and how to make sure they’re available when needed

Back to Basics is not about perfection or pressure. Instead, it provides straightforward reminders and trusted information to support small, achievable choices that can add up to long-term benefits.

As part of the campaign, a series of posters have been created. These will be shared on social media and hosted on NHS Western Isles’ public health webpages, where people can view, download and share them with family and friends, in workplaces, and within community groups.

Alison MacDonald, Senior Health Promotion Officer, said: ‘Health advice can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when life is busy. Back to Basics is about going back to the fundamentals, the simple things that make a difference to how we feel.’

The campaign aims to help people feel informed, confident and empowered when it comes to their health.  To view the full range of posters, you can visit:  www.wihb.scot.nhs.uk/public-health/resources/