Lambeth (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Lambeth will host a free health and wellbeing event for Black Caribbean and African communities on 25 October as part of Black History Month celebrations.
This Saturday, October 25, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Lambeth Council, the Caribbean and African Health Network, and the Lambeth Together health and care partnership will host the Inspire Black Communities Health and Wellbeing Day at St. Mark’s Church in Kennington.
Throughout the day, medical experts from Lambeth’s local NHS departments will be on hand to respond to inquiries, offer advice, and assist individuals in adopting healthier lifestyle choices. In addition, there will be fun activities for all ages, live DJing, uplifting music, African and Caribbean cuisine, and celebrations of Black culture and community.
Dr Di Aitken, GP and Co-Chair of the Lambeth Together Care Partnership Board, said:
“We know that communities of African and Caribbean heritage in Lambeth are disproportionately affected by conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and chronic kidney disease.
They too often face barriers to early support. Our fourth Inspire, Black Communities Health and Wellbeing Day, is a direct response – bringing health checks, trusted advice and open conversations into the community.”
“It’s about tackling inequalities head-on, building confidence and trust, guiding people through the system, and supporting people to take charge of their health.”
On the day there will be free health checks for blood pressure, diabetes and cardiovascular screening, plus advice on staying active and looking after your health.
Cllr Nanda Manley-Browne, Lambeth’s joint Cabinet Member for Healthier Communities, said:
“I’m delighted that this event is back during Black History Month because it’s such important support for our communities. There’s a serious mission here about tackling health inequalities, but its also an opportunity to come together and celebrate our Black communities.
I know previous inspire events have been really popular, and I’m sure this one will be the same, so I’d encourage local people to sign up and join us to celebrate and improve our health and well-being.”
To commemorate Black History Month, Lambeth Council is holding a packed schedule of motivating, interesting, and encouraging community events throughout October.
How can local residents get involved in future health and wellbeing initiatives?
Residents can serve as community health champions whose goals are to raise awareness, encourage peers, and assist local people in accessing health resources. Engaging in the organization and delivery of health activities is another hands-on form of participating.
Community members can be presented as peer supporters to provide information and support based on their own experiences for others going through similar circumstances.
Community members can participate in health and wellbeing boards, advisory groups, or community forums to make their voices heard, provide input on programs, and become involved in developing service delivery that matters to the community.
Many programs offer training for volunteers and community members to grow skills for effective health advocacy, communication, or program delivery. Education recognition and potentially accredited training is provided as well.