Petworth’s first-ever Men’s Health Fair has helped put men’s wellbeing firmly in the spotlight this summer, drawing praise from both health professionals and the local community.
Organised by Chichester Wellbeing, the event aimed to break down barriers around men’s health and encourage open conversations by offering free blood pressure checks, health screenings, and access to expert advice. The fair was designed to help men take practical steps toward improving their physical and mental wellbeing.
“This was a great opportunity to bring together some of our partners and different organisations and help residents find out more about the range of support that they may not have realised is available to them,” said Cllr Tracie Bangert, Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing at Chichester District Council.
A Hub of Local Support and Advice
Visitors to the fair were able to speak with representatives from a wide range of services, including Chichester District Council’s Social Prescribing and Choose Work teams, West Sussex County Council’s Prevention Assessment Team, and local charities such as Petworth Men’s Shed, Age UK, The Royal Voluntary Service, and the Chichester District Food Bank.
The event received high praise from Dr Tim Fooks, High Sheriff of West Sussex and a former GP, who said: “As a local GP for over 30 years, and a 62-year-old man, the Men’s Health Fair gave a unique opportunity to learn how to take control of our health, both in mind and body, before ill-health takes control of us.
Each stall offered practical support and advice which were both realistic and evidence-based. I congratulate the organisers — the information people could gain from the fair may well help save lives.”
A Step Forward for Community Wellbeing
With its focus on prevention, awareness, and accessibility, the Petworth Men’s Health Fair marked a positive step toward making health support more approachable for men in the community — and organisers hope it will become a regular fixture in the local calendar.
Another vehicle fire on the A27 in Chichester
Worthing woman jailed after £2,000 shoplifting spree
Council in Chichester to move part of its waste management service
221 new homes for Horsham district
Man charged with attempted murder following violent assault in Eastbourne
Woman who died in collision near Binderton formally identified
Eastbourne MP slams UK waterway crisis
Mountbatten Leisure Centre in Portsmouth scores energy upgrades
West Sussex publishes new flood strategy to tackle climate impacts and build resilience
East Sussex parents urged: Vaccinate against measles
On Air