A bid to boost the region's health will be launched next week, as part of a major drive to help people get the crucial advice they need.

Birmingham-based organisation, Health Exchange is hoping to raise awareness of the health information that is readily available to residents in and around Birmingham, as part of Health Information Week, which runs from July 4th to 10th.

The social-enterprise has teamed up with Macmillan Cancer Support, Primary Care Health Centres and Birmingham's Central Library, to offer members of the public free support, providing signposting to services and the use of special Health Exchange information touchscreens.

During Health Information Week, a team of health supporters will be introducing residents to Mr Pharm, an interactive computer character, who has been launched across all Health Exchange's pharmacy-based health screens, providing information, advice and guidance.

The health screens allow people to access all the information they need without having to wait for a pharmacist to become available, which is especially useful during busy periods.

Sue Turton, Operations Director at Health Exchange, said: "Increasingly, pharmacies are fulfilling the role of healthy-living centres, and we regard pharmacists as essential partners in helping us promote health and wellbeing within local communities.

"Our health screens were created to enhance the range of help and advice pharmacists offer their customers and patients, exploiting Health Exchange's extensive resources."

Health Exchange workers can point people in the right direction to find the help and guidance they need, and help those with long-term health conditions to manage their illness effectively.

Health Information Week will be taking place at Soho Primary Care Centre, Finch Road Primary Care Centre, Birmingham Central Library, Summerfield Primary Care Centre, City Hospital, and at the Erdington NHS Walk-in Centre.