Bolton Health Mela

The National Forum for Health and Wellbeing in association with the University of Bolton and supported by the Rotary Clubs of Bolton

NEWS RELEASE No: 08 – 18, dated 11th. July 2018

9th. Annual Bolton Health Mela.

First notice and invitation to contribute.

The latest in the series of exciting festivals promoting and celebrating health and wellbeing in Bolton, the ninth Bolton Health Mela, is to be held at the University on Saturday, 13th. October. This notice is an invitation to local organisations to register their interest in joining us to make this year’s event bigger and better than ever.

Health Melas are unique festivals celebrating Community Health and Wellbeing and since the first one held in Preston in 2002, NFHW and its partner organisations have organised more than forty across the North West and further afield, establishing a national reputation for excellence in health promotion.

Melas are based on the South Asian model which combines news exchange and socialisation in a warm, friendly and stimulating environment. They bring together individuals, families and communities spanning all ages, races and cultures, to mix with professionals and volunteers representing all aspects of the health spectrum. This format provides a unique and enjoyable occasion to acquire health related information and enjoy entertainment and refreshment. Visitors also have the opportunity to take a personal health check in the form of a Health MOT provided in a relaxed, informal atmosphere with friendly counselling from health professionals.

Health Melas are typically supported by NHS Trusts, Clinical Commissioning Groups, Local Authorities, Universities, Colleges and Schools and a wide range of voluntary and statutory organisations. Together they provide the stalls, exhibition stands, displays and demonstrations along with competitions and entertainment. They also provide the skilled professional volunteers who offer the comprehensive programme of individual health checks and advice available on the day.

In the morning, before the public event opens, a ‘Breakfast Meeting’ for health and associated professionals provides an opportunity to discuss a topic of current local interest. The subject for this year’s meeting is, ‘Developing an NHS workforce fit for purpose - Challenges and opportunities for leaders in health-care and education.’

Overall, the Mela is an unforgettable mix of functionality and fun and for some it will provide a life changing experience. The Health Mela provides an unrivalled opportunity to get across your message and to network with like-minded individuals and organisations.

If your organisation has a stake in the health and wellbeing of the community of Bolton why not join us on October 13th?

To find out more about the Health Mela and to discuss how your organisation might take part in this exciting event please contact:

Bimpe Kuti, Faculty of Health and Wellbeing, University of Bolton b.kuti@bolton.ac.uk

Ravi Shah, NFHW Exhibitions Organiser ravi.shah@nfhw.org.uk