More than 1000 people attend event after four-year hiatus
Preston’s first Health Mela in four years has been hailed a resounding success after more than 1000 people visited the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) this weekend for a free health check.
Organised by the National Forum for Health and Wellbeing (NFHW) in partnership with the UCLan School of Medicine, the Preston Health Mela brought together more than 70 stalls manned by community health professionals, volunteers and UCLan students to provide information and advice on a comprehensive range of health issues.
"I am delighted to say the Health Mela was a tremendous success and it was a joy to see so many people engaging with our stall holders and taking advantage of the free health checks. "
— UCLan Honorary Fellow and Chair of the UCLan Creative Community Group, which also supports the event, Russell Hogarth
Visitors were able to learn vital CPR techniques and have their blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure checked, alongside receiving advice around a range of issues from cancer support to chronic pain management to oral health care. Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust also provided a walk-through inflatable bowel to demonstrate a range of possible conditions to look out for.
UCLan Honorary Fellow and Chair of the UCLan Creative Community Group, which also supports the event, Russell Hogarth said: “I am delighted to say the Health Mela was a tremendous success and it was a joy to see so many people engaging with our stall holders and taking advantage of the free health checks. Yet again the smoothie bike was a great attraction for both young and old and the teddy bear clinic was enjoyed by children of all ages.
"Covid may have delayed this annual event for the last few years but we’re back up and running and can’t wait to host the Preston Health Mela again next year."
— UCLan Honorary Fellow and Chair of the UCLan Creative Community Group, which also supports the event, Russell Hogarth
“Preston MP Sir Mark Hendrick and the Mayor of Preston, Councillor Neil Darby, officially opened the Health Mela and were suitably impressed by what was on offer.
“Covid may have delayed this annual event for the last few years but we’re back up and running and can’t wait to host the Preston Health Mela again next year.”
Professor Romesh Gupta OBE, Chair of the NFHW, added: "I was delighted to see so many familiar faces attending the Health Mela again this year. We really appreciate the support from the University, the Creative Communities Group and the NFHW Volunteers."
