InformationNow News 23 October 2026

InformationNow News 23 October 2026

NEWS

InformationNOW

A lot of work is happening behind the scenes as we continue to work on the InformationNow refresh.  Once again, we’d like to thank everyone who provided feedback – your ideas and suggestions have helped inform the developments and we’re really excited about the changes!

Visit www.informationnow.org.uk today and keep Newcastle connected.

Byker Community Coop is officially open!

Every Wednesday 3pm – 4pm, Community Coop, 66 Raby Street, Byker.

Pop along to collect a bag of shopping and see what other services and activities they have planned in the newly refurbished hobby room.

Read more on InformationNow about Byker Community Trust

SPOTLIGHT ON

Tyne and Wear Fire Service Consultation

The Community Risk Management Plan explains how Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service will help keep people safe over the next three years.  A new plan will be published in April 2027.  Before then, they want to hear from people who live, work and visit Tyne and Wear.  Your views will help them understand what is important to local people and to help shape the service.

Click on this link to have your say

Read more on InformationNow about Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS)

New brain tumour test pioneered by Newcastle doctors and scientists

Doctors and scientists at Newcastle Hospitals are among the first in the UK to use a pioneering brain tumour test with the potential to speed up a diagnosis for patients – from weeks to hours.

The new ultra-rapid test has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment for thousands of patients with brain tumours which can be aggressive and challenging to treat.

OPPORTUNITIES

ReCoCo

The Recovery College Collective, better known as ReCoCo, is a radical mental health recovery college based in Newcastle upon Tyne, set up to provide support for and by those with experiences of mental health and addictions.

See their autumn prospectus here

Read more on InformationNow about ReCoCo: The Recovery College Collective

Pre-Raphelites Art and Poetry Exhibition

17 October 2026 – 13 February 2027
Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle.
An innovative exhibition explores the connections between Pre-Raphaelite art and poetry for the first time.  An important emphasis on contemporary female artists and poets is a key aspect of this extraordinary show.

Read more on InformationNow about Laing Art Gallery

Free Days Out for Carers in Newcastle

Carers that register with Newcastle Carers can enjoy free tickets to local attractions and shows. Get involved in activities such as:

If you look after someone in Newcastle who could not manage without your help, you can submit a referral through Newcastle Carers online form, or by calling their Carers Information Line on 0191 275 5060.

Read more on InformationNow about Newcastle Carers

CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT

Dementia Network Meeting

10am to 11.30am on Tuesday 3 November 2026

Silverline Memories, Kenton.

The fifth Newcastle Dementia Network meeting and final for this year.  The meeting is open to anyone with an interest in dementia — professionals, carers, and community partners.

Please bring along any updates, resources, or news you’d like to share, or send to them to share on your behalf.

Please click on this link to confirm attendance

Read more on InformationNow about Dementia Connections

 

Wellbeing taster session for people affected by Parkinsons

1pm to 3pm, Thursday 5 November 2026

Marie Curie Wellbeing Centre, Elswick.

Explore the Marie Curie wellbeing centre.  Meet other people with Parkinsons and their partners and carers.  Relaxation, social and creative activities for everyone affected by Parkinsons.

Contact Sarah Fraser for more information and to book a place on [email protected] or call 07964 037154

Read more on InformationNow about Parkinson’s Disease

 

REPORTS AND RESOURCES

Prescription ready alerts

New alerts are being introduced to the NHS App which will send the user a mobile phone or smartwatch notification when their prescription is ready to be collected.  Around one in three pharmacies in England are currently offering the feature and users are finding it extremely useful to get near real-time alerts, avoiding unnecessary trips to their chemist.

See more about the service here

Read more on InformationNow about NHS App

Free Cycling Sessions

9.30am to 11.30am Saturday 24 October – The Cycle Hub, Quayside.

Mind Matters NE are offering free cycling sessions – with bikes and helmets provided.  Join the friendly, relaxed group.  As long as you’re over 18 and can ride a bike, you’re welcome!

Click here to sign up

Read more on InformationNow about The Cycle Hub

UPCOMING EVENTS

Greggs Ta-Pastry

24 October 2026 to 17 January 2027

Great North Museum Hancock, Newcastle.

Inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry, an eight-metre-long embroidery chronicling the conquest of the British high street by Greggs‘ most treasured (and tasty) artefacts is being displayed at the Great North Museum Hancock.

Rendered in authentic medieval style complete with traditional border motifs and satirical Latin framing, the six chapters invite you to look closer at the legacy of the Sausage Roll.

Read more about the exhibition here

Read more on InformationNow about Great North Museum: Hancock

In Conversation with Elle Blair and Alys Cummings

5pm to 6pm, Thursday 12 November 2026, City Library Newcastle

Join two local authors as they chat about their debut novels.  The event will include a Question and Answer session and a book sale will be available.

Click here for tickets

Read more on InformationNow about City Library – Newcastle

NEW AND UPDATED ON INFONOW

Updated organisation

Charlton Street Hub

Charlton Street is a community and children and families hub. They run a range of activities and services.

Read more on InformationNow about Charlton Street Lemington Children and Families Hub

Updated organisation

Foodcycle

FoodCycle rescues edible surplus food from local partners to provide free, three-course nutritious meals every week. Cooked by welcoming volunteers.

Read more on InformationNow about Foodcycle

Last updated: October 23, 2026