How do we as professionals explain the dangers of antimicrobial resistance in a way that goes beyond just raising awareness and prompts real action?
We understand the problem – our antibiotics are not working as well as they used to meaning we could lose them altogether – and we understand some of the solutions.
Of course, looking at the big picture is vital, so news such as the recent UN declaration and the AMR review are great examples of the global leadership we need to see.
But we also need to keep focusing on the simple actions we can all take as professionals – or as patients – to save our antibiotics.
How can YOU help?
The Antibiotic Guardian campaign asks both professionals and members of the public to pledge to take one simple action that can combat antibiotic resistance.
For instance a professional might pledge to access and use best practice guidance or a parent might pledge to promote good hand hygiene amongst their family to reduce the risk of infections.
So far over 33,000 people have made a pledge but we want this number to grow.
Become an Antibiotic Guardian
If you haven’t already done so, visit the campaign website and make your pledge – encourage your colleagues do so too.
We know from campaign feedback and evaluation that word of mouth is important so please mention the campaign in team meetings or around your place of work - tell friends and family too!
Evaluation on the campaign demonstrated that Antibiotic Guardian increases commitment to tackling AMR in healthcare professional and the public and increases self-reported knowledge and changed self-reported behaviour.
Help spread the word
There are lots of materials for use in your place of work; from posters and leaflets to content for social media. Email socialmedia@phe.gov.uk if you would like to access graphics and ready made social media posts. You can also let us know you're taking part through an online form - this helps with our evaluation.
Using your social media channels
You can help raise awareness on your social media channels (either professional or personal) by sharing your pledge and using #AntibioticGuardian when tweeting.
Please also share this 2 minute video, which explains what antibiotic resistance is and why it’s important that we take action.
Access professional tools
An introductory free e-learning module, Reducing Antimicrobial Resistance has been developed to support health and social care staff understand the threats posed by antimicrobial resistance.
Also, Health Education England has worked with us to develop two short introductory films about the risks associated with overusing antibiotics. The first film, a guide for GPs on antimicrobial resistance, supports a range of educational materials for GPs and other primary-care prescribers called the TARGET toolkit.
Further professional resources and information are available via 'Health Matters - Antimicrobial resistance'.