Spotlight on health and wellbeing at Preston Flag Market this weekend

Come along to a special health and wellbeing event at Preston's Flag Market between 10.30am and 3.30pm on Saturday 5 October, hosted by Preston Wellfest.

This is a free, drop-in event with information, activities, and entertainment.

The day is a way of focusing attention on various aspects of health and wellbeing and showcasing the wide variety of support organisations available across the city. It's also a day for fun and finding out the benefits that improving your overall health and wellbeing can bring.

In total, around 30 organisations will be in attendance. Look out for entertainment provided Preston Concert Band, The Worldwise Samba Drummers, and Preston People's Choir. There will also be spoken word from WellArty and performances by singer Lasita.

Free NHS health checks will be available to those aged between 40 - 74, the event will be signed by a BSL interpreter and if you get there early enough you might even get to meet a therapy dog!

Whilst the event has been designed to cover both physical and mental health and wellbeing, the date was chosen in support of World Mental Health Day, which takes place on 10 October.

Councillor Zafar Coupland, Cabinet member for health and wellbeing at Preston City Council, said: 

The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of the value of good mental health and to come together to support those who need help. 

"The event, organised by Preston Wellfest and supported by Preston City Council, provides an opportunity for community partners to talk about their work, and showcase the amazing support on offer. Noone has to face health issues alone.

"Many people will face both physical and mental health issues throughout their lives, however, there is still a stigma surrounding poor mental health and asking for help. As well as looking at the physical aspects of health and wellbeing, this event creates opportunities to talk to others and get help if you are struggling with poor mental health." 

The Preston Wellfest Network was initially formed in 2019 and is currently made up of more than sixty organisations that have a specific interest in health and wellbeing in the Preston area.