Lifelines

OCCUPANCY RISKS: The higher the level of bed occupancy, the higher the levels of MRSA infections, according to researchers at the University of Ulster.

A study led by Joseph Cunningham found that all medical facilities in Northern Ireland Trusts had occupancy levels higher than 85 per cent. A maximum bed occupancy of 82 per cent is recommended to reduce the risks of hospital infections. The turnover interval between patients is another risk for infection and the study found that the time between one patient leaving a bed and another using it may be as little as one hour and 12 minutes.

SAFETY VOTE: Vote With Your Feet is a new campaign from the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) encouraging consumers not to accept food unfit for consumption from a takeaway or eat-in restaurant. If customers come across poor hygiene practices or unfit food, the FSAI is keen to hear about it on 1890 336677. Contact the safefood helpline on tel: 1850 404567.

MENTAL ILLNESS SUPPORT: Understanding mental illness and how best to support those with mental health problems is the theme of a one-day seminar in the Radisson Hotel, Galway on Thursday, April 20th. Hosted by the National Learning Network and led by psychologists Denise O'Dwyer and Shane Martin, the seminar will look at various symptoms of schizophrenia, depression, anxiety and stress and explore practical supports. Cost €100. Tel: 01 4526634 or e-mail cpd@nln.ie for booking details.

HEALING WORKSHOPS: World renowned healer and American chiropractor Dr Eric Pearl is coming to Dublin later this month to give two weekend workshops based on his book, The Reconnection: Heal Others, Heal Yourself. The workshops will be held in the Alexander Hotel, Dublin from Friday, April 21st to Sunday, April 23rd and in Fitzpatrick Hotel, Killiney, Co Dublin from Friday, April 28th to Sunday, April 30th. Cost: €489 and €579 respectively. Tel: 074 9734952 or e-mail Thereconnection@eircom.net. See also www.thereconnection.com

FAMILY DINING: The conundrum of what to feed children will be tackled in a six-part series on RTÉ Radio 1 later this month. Family Flavours aims to present "tasty food to everyone in the family". The programme-makers say the series aims to equip parents with a variety of easy meals, which can be put together quickly. The first programme on April 22nd at 7.30pm will focus on picky eaters.

DYSLEXIA TALK: An information talk on Dyslexia and the Tomatis Method will take place on Saturday, April 22nd at 2.30pm at the Cluas Centre Exchange Hall, Tallaght. To book, tel: 01-4940210.

(Lifelines is compiled by Sylvia Thompson)