Articles
Christmas Information 2021
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- Category: General Information
- Published on Tuesday, 14 December 2021 12:59
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Christmas 2021
After what has been another whirlwind of a year, we are almost approaching the new year. COVID-19 has had a massive impact on all of our lives again this year, and with the emergence of the Omicron variant, it looks like it will still be with us for a little while longer. Covid aside, Christmas is fast approaching and there are a few important pieces of information regarding the charity, as well as things which may impact yourself which we have included below.
Christmas Opening Hours
After a year of blended working, our Head Office will close for the festive period on Thursday 23rd December and we will reopen on Tuesday 4th January. During this period, our staff won't be working but you can still send in emails and we will get around to them when we return to the office.
Our national and welfare benefits helpline will also be closed during this period. They will not be available, however, our online services such as HealthUnlocked will be available to use during this time. You can view more information on our services and their opening hours by clicking here.
Prescriptions
Something which may impact you during the Christmas period is prescriptions. FMA UK would like to remind everyone to check their GP's opening hours. This is important to ensure you have enough medication and don't run out. Practices may vary in opening hours so it is important to check when yours will be closed.
Information Pack Delays
Our information packs and employments will still be available to request whilst we are closed. It should be noted that they will take a few weeks to arrive due to our office closure and catching up with orders when we return. We do however have all of our information and employment booklets to view online which will save you waiting. They can be viewed online here.
Fibromyalgia At Christmas
Make sure to try and pace yourself and don't leave tasks until the last minute. Rushing about and stress can make fibromyalgia symptoms feel worse and can lead to flare-ups, so it is important to try and make sure you are prepared. Whether it be ordering in Christmas dinner just now or buying presents, try to avoid leaving it until the last minute. The same could be said for New Years and planning for any potential parties/gatherings etc. At Christmas, things can seem very busy and fast paced with dinners, family parties etc. and it can all seem too much at times. It is important to relax and try and unwind if you can. Taking baths, watching films, reading or even just listening to music - whatever way you enjoy relaxing, try and take some time to do it.
"Surviving Christmas with a Chronic Illness"
Erica submitted this blog to ourselves citing her experience of living with a chronic illness at Christmas time. You can read the article here.
Christmas Tiffin Recipe
Ian Taverner, who wrote the book "cookfulness" has created a recipe which he has designed specifically for those living with chronic illnesses such as Fibromyalgia. For Christmas, he has created a Tiffin recipe which can you can read and try out by clicking here.
Festive Fundraising
Thinking of fundraising for us over the Christmas and New Year period? You can check out our festive fundraising section on the website for more info + tips here.