In the final episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast for 2025, hosts Fergal, Noreen, and Eamon reflect on a year of inspiring conversations covering diverse health and wellbeing topics. They highlight the courage and authenticity of guests who shared personal stories on issues such as suicide bereavement, cultural diversity, HIV stigma, mental health, and cancer. The episode celebrates the power of storytelling, the importance of community partnerships, and the ongoing commitment to providing accessible, evidence-based advice. Listeners are warmly thanked for their support, with a promise of more insightful episodes in 2026.   Produced by GK Media.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we explore how ALONE and the HSE’s Enhanced Community Care (ECC) programme collaborate to support older adults in relation to many areas of their health and wellbeing and fundamentally to live well at home. Our guests are Catriona Brennan, Candidate, Advanced Nurse Practitioner, frailty, Gail Flynn, Advanced Nurse Practitioner, older persons, and Aileen O'Reilly, Head of Research, Evaluation and policy at ALONE. Through real-life case studies and expert insights, the discussion highlights the value of comprehensive geriatric assessments, community partnerships, and practical supports - from home adaptations to befriending services. Listeners will gain an understanding of how joined up person-centred care helps older people maintain independence, dignity and wellbeing, while also easing pressure on healthcare services.   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley welcomes Caitriona Heffernan, National Clinical Innovation Lead and Anna Marie Kiernan, National Nursing/Midwifery Innovation Fellow, from the HSE Spark Innovation Programme. Together, they discuss how Spark empowers frontline healthcare staff to develop and implement innovative ideas that improve patient care across Ireland. The conversation highlights the programme’s support through funding, mentorship, and education, the importance of teamwork in innovation, and the value of involving patients in co-creating solutions. The HSE Spark Innovation Programme represents a transformative approach to healthcare innovation, empowering frontline healthcare workers to develop solutions that improve patient care and service delivery across Ireland's health system Listeners are encouraged to explore Spark’s opportunities and become active contributors to positive change in healthcare. For more information visit https://healthservice.hse.ie/staff/spark-innovation-programme/           Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Noreen Turley welcomes Sheila Lucey, an advanced nurse practitioner and infant feeding specialist, for an in-depth discussion on breastfeeding. Sheila shares expert information on the benefits of breastfeeding, preparing before birth, and the importance of early support. The conversation covers practical tips for overcoming challenges, the significance of skin-to-skin contact, and available resources for families. Listeners are encouraged to seek support, trust their own journey, and remember that every feed counts. The episode aims to empower and reassure parents with accessible, up-to-date information and encouragement.   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Fergal Fox welcomes Cliona Fitzpatrick from Movember to discuss their recent Report; The Real Face of Men’s Health in Ireland. They explore the impact of Movember’s initiatives, the findings of their new research, and the importance of community-based support. The conversation outlines the need to focus on health inequalities, the role of caregivers, and the need for collaboration across sectors. New HSE supports for men’s mental health are highlighted as well as some of the existing programmes of work in the area of men’s health. Movember are calling for the full implementation of the HSE National Men’s Health Action Plan, Healthy Ireland Men 2024 – 2028 and are planning to work with the HSE and other partners to deliver on this. Listeners are encouraged to engage in men’s health conversations and access available resources, with a warm invitation to join ongoing efforts to improve wellbeing for men and their families.   For further support on men’s mental health: https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/men/ For the full Movember Report on The Real Face of Men’s Health: https://ie.movember.com/movember-institute/the-real-face-of-mens-health-report To access the HSE National Men’s Health Action Plan: https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/publications/health-and-wellbeing/national-men-s-health-action-plan-2024-2028.pdf To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health & Wellbeing Podcast, host Eamon Keogh talks with Roisin Breen and Dr Ola Nordrum about the HSE’s climate action journey: why healthcare must lead, what the priority frameworks cover, and how staff and leaders can turn strategy into delivery. They discuss the health impacts already seen, practical wins such as Green Theatres, inhaler changes and greener labs, and how the HseLand Climate & Sustainability Learning Hub and regional Green Teams are building momentum. The episode offers clear starting points for teams, the role of leadership and measurement, and how to scale what works. To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GK Media.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we speak with Gráinne Leach and Kellie O’Farrell to discuss the experiences of people with disabilities working in the health service. Gráinne works as a Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Officer with HSE Human Resources and Kellie works as a Senior Occupational Therapist in Primary Care. The conversation highlights personal journeys, workplace challenges, and the importance of inclusion and reasonable accommodations. Both guests share how supportive colleagues, clear policies, and networks like the Le Cheile Network foster a more inclusive culture. The episode offers practical advice for managers and staff, emphasising empathy, open communication, and the value of accessible support systems in creating a healthier, more equitable workplace for all. The HSE’s DEI Team also offers guidance and support to staff and health service managers on disability and reasonable accommodation. For more information and to get in touch with the Le Chéile network email the HSE Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) team  You can contact them at diversity.hr@hse.ie.   Produced by GK Media

In this episode we talk to Sinéad Coleman, Programme Manager for the HSE National Clinical Programme for Stroke and Physiotherapist at St. James’s Hospital. We discuss the importance of knowing the signs of stroke and responding immediately, highlighting the “Every Second Counts” and the importance of ringing an ambulance as soon as possible. Sinéad explains stroke symptoms, the urgent care pathway, and prevention strategies, while emphasising that immediate action, calling emergency services at the first sign, can save lives and improve recovery.   Produced by GK Media

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Eamon Keogh talks with Dr Emer Guinan about the benefits of physical activity during cancer treatment and beyond. They explore how moderate, sustained movement can help manage side effects like fatigue, support mental wellbeing, and improve day‑to‑day function. The discussion explains why a personalised approach is essential, offers practical starting points such as brisk walking and basic strength exercises, and points to the growing role of rehabilitation and community programmes in cancer care. If you are considering becoming more active, speak with your oncology team or physiotherapy service for tailored advice and local options. To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we are joined by Ultan Hynes and Amanda Casey to discuss Ireland’s Nursing Home Support Scheme, or Fair Deal Scheme. The conversation explores the emotional and practical challenges families face when arranging nursing home care, the application and financial assessment process, and the importance of advance planning and open family communication. Listeners receive clear guidance on navigating the scheme, with helpful resources and reassurance that support is available throughout this significant life transition.   Further information: Fair Deal Scheme: www.hse.ie/fairdeal Contact a Nursing Homes Support Office: https://www2.hse.ie/services/schemes-allowances/fair-deal-scheme/contact/ Find a nursing home in your area: https://www.hiqa.ie/areas-we-work/find-a-centre/map   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Noreen Turley explores Ireland’s new opt-out organ donation system with ICU consultant Dr. Catherine Motherway and Olivia Farrell, whose daughter Lauren became an organ donor. Dr. Motherway explains the new legislation, addresses common misconceptions, and highlights the importance of families having conversations about donation while Olivia shares her moving personal story, showing the comfort, legacy, and life-changing gift of donation. Listeners are encouraged to learn more, talk openly with loved ones, and reflect on the impact of organ donation.   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Eamon Keogh welcomes Joanne Byrne, HSE Senior Community Dietitian. Together they explain what Weaning is, when to start, and the signs that a baby is ready. They discuss first foods, setting up calm mealtimes, and why moving from purées to lumps and how finger foods can support development and safety. Joanne shares advice on responsive feeding, balancing milk with solids, introducing allergens early and maintaining tolerance, plus what to avoid. The episode also covers constipation basics and the difference between gagging and choking. We would like to highlight some resources of interest:My Child HSE: https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/weaning-eating/weaning/Safefood: https://www.safefood.net/Healthy-Eating/Children/How-to-start-weaningHSE: https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/weaning-eating/weaning/tips/   To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Fergal Fox explores how creativity and community engagement can support people living with dementia. Guests Matthew Gibb, Rosin Nevin, and Catherine Daly discuss the benefits of arts-based programmes, such as poetry groups, in fostering hope, connection, and self-expression. The conversation highlights person-centred care, the importance of trust, and the power of creative activities to enhance wellbeing, reduce stigma, and help individuals with dementia maintain a sense of identity and inclusion within their communities.   Links to information and resources mentioned in the podcast: DSiDC website: www.dementia.ie Understand Together website: www.understandtogether.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Noreen Turley interviews Dr. Colin Henry, Chief Clinical Officer of the Health Service Executive. They discuss the ongoing transformation of Irish healthcare, emphasising the shift toward more integrated, patient-centred care. Topics include the vital role of clinical leadership, expanding community-based services, and the opportunities brought about by digital innovation.   Dr. Henry highlights the importance of patient collaboration in designing care pathways to improve safety and quality while addressing the diverse needs of Ireland's population. He also acknowledges the dedication and essential contributions of healthcare staff, who play a key role in delivering high-quality care amid ongoing reforms and growth.   This episode offers listeners an informative look at the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of healthcare in Ireland today. To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communication@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Eamon Keogh talks with Fiona Tuomey, CEO, HUGG, and HSE Suicide Bereavement Co-ordinator Ollie Skehan about suicide bereavement. They discuss how suicide bereavement profoundly affects individuals and communities in Ireland, with each death impacting an estimated 135 people and creating layered grief that includes emotional, practical, legal, and social challenges. The discussion emphasises the need for timely, accurate information and a flexible range of supports, from peer-led and non-clinical options (like support groups community spaces) to clinical care when needed. Reducing stigma and using trauma‑informed, non-judgmental language are essential, as is active listening. If you have been affected by this topic or would like more information please see supports available below:   www.hse.ie/grief www.hugg.ie www.pieta.ie www.childhoodbereavement.ie/   To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley is joined by clinical psychologist Aisling White and social worker Caroline O’Donoghue to explore parenting stress. The discussion highlights how feeling stressed is a normal part of parenting, its physical and emotional impacts, and practical strategies for self-care and stress management. The guests highlight the importance of self-compassion, open communication, and support networks, while also sharing accessible resources and programs. Listeners are reassured that seeking help is a strength, and that caring for oneself benefits both parents and children.   Links to information and resources mentioned in the podcast:   MyChild.ie - https://www2.hse.ie/my-child/ Let’s Parent DLR - https://www.letsparentdlr.ie/ HSE.ie - https://www.hse.ie/ Balancing Stress - https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/self-help/balancing-stress/ CYPSC website - https://www.cypsc.ie/ Cyber safety podcast - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-kukss-18738bf   To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox is joined by Jenny Smyth (HSE National Social Inclusion Office) and Rob (Ana Liffey Drugs Project) to mark International Overdose Awareness Day. The discussion explores overdose risks in Ireland, the vital role of naloxone, and the importance of peer-led intervention and community support. The guests share practical advice on recognising and responding to overdoses, highlight the trauma experienced by those affected, and emphasise the need for open conversations, training, and compassion to reduce stigma and save lives.    See links to the resources and supports as outlined in the podcast: International Overdose Awareness Day 2025 Webinar: https://www.drugs.ie/features/feature/international_overdose_awareness_day_20251 Overdose Rescue Plan - "Together We Can": https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/primarycare/socialinclusion/addiction/clinical-matters/naloxone/overdose-safety-and-rescue-plan-v2.pdf Naloxone information pages: https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/primarycare/socialinclusion/addiction/clinical-matters/naloxone/ & https://www.drugs.ie/resources/naloxone/ Ana Liffey Drug Project: https://www.aldp.ie/ Naloxone Administration Training on HseLand: https://www.hseland.ie/dash/Account/PreLogin   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this podcast episode, Dr. Abigail Collins, Consultant in Public Health Medicine and Clinical Lead for the National Healthy Childhood Programme, shares expert advice on preparing children for the school year. The discussion covers preventing and managing common childhood illnesses and building healthy routines, as well as advice for children who are anxious about going back to school. The episode provides practical tips for parents during the busy back-to-school period. To find advice for parents, go to MyChild.ie.   If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie.   Produced by GKMedia.ie

In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Dr. Caoimhe Hartley joins host Noreen Turley to explain what complex menopause really means, who it affects, and how Ireland’s six Complex Menopause Clinics are supporting women who may not be able to take hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Menopause is often discussed in terms of hot flushes and mood swings but for some women, it’s far more complicated. In this episode, we focus on complex menopause, where underlying medical conditions or cancer histories can make treatment more challenging. Caoimhe explains that there is support for women when HRT is not an option, she encourages women to make the list, ask the questions and get a referral from your GP to one of the six complex menopause clinics across the country. From managing symptoms without hormones, to tackling brain fog, sleep disruption, and the emotional toll of feeling left out of the conversation, this episode offers practical advice, empathy, and hope to all women. To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie   Here are some resources mentioned in the podcast:  https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/menopause/ https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/1/schemes/drugspaymentscheme/ https://www.arccancersupport.ie/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dloG-DQKKmk

In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Eamon Keogh welcomes Tim Hanly, General Manager and Teresa Cronin, Director of Nursing from the HSE Safeguarding Office. Together, they explain what Elder Abuse is. Also outlining how it still remains an issue in society, with isolation and loneliness increasing the risk of abuse for some of our elderly population. They talk through the different type of elder abuse, financial, physical, emotional or due to neglect. The conversation highlights how to recognise the signs of elder abuse and what services are available if someone feels they need to report it.   We would like to highlight some resources of interest:   Community safeguarding and protection teams: www.hse.ie/safeguarding   HSE Social Prescribing https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/our-priority-programmes/mental-health-and-wellbeing/social-prescribing/social%20prescribing%20leaflet%20for%20health%20professionals.pdf                                                                                To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie