How to get a free 'health MOT' in Preston as the city's Health Mela returns

This year’s theme for the annual event - which returned in 2023 for the first time since the onset of the pandemic - is ‘sustainability and healthy communities’.

It will take place at the University of Central Lancashire’s Foster building on Saturday 13th April, from 11am.

As usual, attendees will be able to undergo a ‘health MOT’ where they will get their body’s vital signs measured, have their blood tested for glucose and cholesterol and receive tailored health advice.

The sessions are carried out by students on medical, nursing or other health-related course under the guidance of their seniors. Blood tests will be done by volunteers from the Blood Drop team.

The usual attractions, including a smoothy bike, teddy bear clinic, dental health check and taster sessions of Reiki will also be available.

Prior to the official opening, the day begins with a breakfast meeting for an invited audience The gathering will be addressed by Christopher Gormley, the chief sustainability officer for NHS England and Prof Kevin Fenton CBE, president of the Faculty of Public Health,

Speaking about the day’s proceedings, Professor Romesh Gupta OBE, chair of the National Forum for Health Wellbeing - which organises the mela - said: “We can’t wait to welcome our local community to this brilliant annual event.

“The visitors can access a range of health services for free and enjoy a family day out at the same time.

“The event is a gathering of numerous health related stalls from several NHS organisations, health trusts, councils and voluntary as well as charitable organisations such as Macmillans, Stroke Association, Memory Assessment Service, Haemochromatosis Support Group, to name a few.

“Attendees can get information from these stalls members in a non-threatening environment and feel empowered to take control of their own health and that of their family members” said Professor Gupta, who is also an honorary professor at UCLan.

The event - which runs until 3pm - is free to attend, no prior registration is necessary and there is plenty of parking available on UCLan’s car parks.