http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/newsroom The latest news articles from NIDirect. en-gb Sun, 19 May 2013 20:22:38 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/newsroom?WT.mc_id=rss-news http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/nidirect-logo.gif http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-exercising-is-good-for-mental-and-emotional-health?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-exercising-is-good-for-mental-and-emotional-health It’s Mental Health Awareness Week (13 to 19 May). This year’s theme is physical activity and exercise, highlighting the positive impact that physical activity can have on mental health. The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging people across Northern Ireland to get active in a bid to improve their emotional wellbeing. Fri, 17 May 2013 13:40:32 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-important-to-talk-about-dying-death-and-bereavement?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-important-to-talk-about-dying-death-and-bereavement As part of Dying Matters Awareness Week (13 to 19 May), the Public Health Agency is urging everyone to take the opportunity to talk openly about dying, death and bereavement with those closest to them. This year’s theme is ‘Be ready for it’. Taking simple steps can make a big difference to people when they are dying or bereaved. Fri, 17 May 2013 09:09:30 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-have-your-say-on-proposed-changes-to-blue-badge-scheme?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-have-your-say-on-proposed-changes-to-blue-badge-scheme A public consultation has begun on a number of proposals on administrative changes to the Blue Badge scheme in Northern Ireland. The scheme is available to people with severe mobility difficulties who travel either as drivers or passengers. Everyone, especially people with disabilities and their representatives, are encouraged to contribute their views. Thu, 16 May 2013 13:15:55 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-census-2011-detailed-characteristics-on-health-religion-and-national-identity?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-census-2011-detailed-characteristics-on-health-religion-and-national-identity The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) has released further results from the 2011 Census, which was held on 27 March 2011. The statistics focus on the topics of health, religion and national identity. They will be followed later in the summer by a further release that will focus on ethnicity, language, housing and the labour market. Thu, 16 May 2013 09:37:50 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-apprentice-of-the-year-winner-announced?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-apprentice-of-the-year-winner-announced A young Dungannon man has been crowned Northern Ireland’s Apprentice of the Year for 2013. Josh Mens, 18, received his award at ceremony in Belfast. He is following an apprenticeship in Design Engineering at South West College, Dungannon and is employed by Kiverco Recycling Systems Limited. Wed, 15 May 2013 12:19:27 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-help-and-advice-available-if-youre-looking-for-work?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-help-and-advice-available-if-youre-looking-for-work Recent figures for April 2013 show that the number of unemployment benefit claimants decreased by 200 from the previous month’s figure. There is a wide range of practical information and advice on nidirect to help you find a job. Wed, 15 May 2013 09:41:58 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-traffic-information-if-going-to-the-balmoral-show?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-traffic-information-if-going-to-the-balmoral-show The Balmoral Show is taking place this week from Wednesday to Friday (15 to 17 May) at Balmoral Park, Maze Long Kesh, Lisburn. If attending, the show organisers the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society advises to leave plenty of time for your journey and, as with any major event, be prepared for potential delays. You should also consider using public transport if possible. Tue, 14 May 2013 13:42:11 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-reduce-the-risk-of-getting-cancer?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-reduce-the-risk-of-getting-cancer It’s Cancer Prevention Week (13-19 May). One third of cancers are preventable and there are things you can do to reduce the risk of getting cancer. Also, if cancer is diagnosed early, you are more likely to survive. It is therefore important to be aware of warning signs which need to be investigated to ensure speedy diagnosis. Tue, 14 May 2013 10:27:24 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-family-fun-day-at-stormont?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-family-fun-day-at-stormont Families looking for a day out on Bank Holiday Monday (27 May) should join Pudsey Bear in the Stormont Estate, Belfast. This year’s Family Fun Day, in support of BBC Children in Need, promises a wealth of activities from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm for all ages. The majority of activities are either free of charge or request only a small donation. Mon, 13 May 2013 09:50:23 GMT http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news-may13-understanding-the-benefits-of-composting?WT.mc_id=rss-news news-may13-understanding-the-benefits-of-composting Have you thought about your garden waste and the benefits of composting at home? Up to a quarter of the average household waste is organic, which means that it could be turned into compost. Disposing of your waste in this way can both help the environment and save you money. Mon, 13 May 2013 12:46:12 GMT