Awareness event promotes healthy hearts in Walsall town centre

Monday, 6 March 2023 18:07

Over 40 health assessments and NHS Health Checks were delivered as part of an event to increase awareness about heart health in Walsall.

I Heart Health’ took place on Thursday 23 February at the Saddlers Shopping Centre in Walsall. It brought people together to learn about how they can live well and reduce their risk of heart disease, as well as getting a free health assessment or NHS Health Check, which included blood pressure and BMI checks.

The first 23 people who had a health assessment or NHS Health Check offered by One You Walsall were eligible to receive a free Saddlers Happy Healthy Hamper of fresh fruit and vegetables, a way of encouraging people to eat well.

Families and shoppers visiting the town centre also engaged with the event by speaking to organisations or taking part in free taster activities, which included cycling, bowls, archery and golf.

Other organisations on the day included Orchid Fighting Male Cancer, Positive Outcomes Project (POP), Mettaminds, PAL Fitness & Education CIC, British Triathlon and mytimeactive. Many of these organisations currently offer local provision across the Borough, giving people the opportunity to continue participating if it was something they enjoyed.

The Ping Pong Parlour was also open for visitors to take part and try out a new sport.

Stephen Gunther, Director of Public Health for Walsall Council, said:

“I am pleased to see many people came forward for a free health assessment or NHS Health Check at the Saddlers Shopping Centre. I had my free NHS Health Check, and it was an easy and informative process. I received tailored advice to take home, which helps me to learn about my heart health and find ways of supporting my overall health and wellbeing.

“It was positive to see people taking up the opportunity to talk to providers on the day or having a go at a taster activity.

“The Saddlers Shopping Centre was pleased to support this initiative and it was a great new event for the centre. There were many of their regular customers visiting for information on a healthy start to the year.

“I would like to thank all the organisers for their involvement in this event.”

If you are aged 40 to 74 and do not have a pre-existing condition, you may be eligible to have a free NHS Health Check. Contact your GP to find out more.

If you would like further support to improve your own health and wellbeing, please visit www.oneyouwalsall.com or call 01922 444044.