Havering leisure centres back Men’s Health Week with prostate and mental health support
Men’s health will take centre stage across Havering this week, as local leisure centres team up with two volunteer organisations to raise awareness of prostate cancer and mental wellbeing.
In support of Men’s Health Week (June 9–15), Everyone Active – which manages local leisure centres in partnership with Havering Council – will host representatives from APPLE Prostate Cancer Awareness Group and The Proper Blokes Club.
Visitors will be able to speak directly with volunteers offering guidance, information and personal insight into two of the most pressing health issues facing men today.
APPLE, a group dedicated to raising awareness of prostate cancer, will provide resources on recognising symptoms, managing the condition, and the importance of early diagnosis.
Representatives will be on hand throughout the week to share their lived experience and answer questions.
Meanwhile, The Proper Blokes Club – a grassroots organisation supporting men’s mental health – will be at Sapphire Ice and Leisure Centre in Romford on Monday, June 9 from 3pm, encouraging local men to join their walking and talking groups and open up about their mental wellbeing.
The initiative aims to break down stigma, promote early intervention and encourage more men to take charge of their physical and mental health.
APPLE Prostate Cancer Group schedule:
- Tue 10 June: Harrow Lodge Leisure Centre, Hornchurch – 10am–12pm
- Wed 11 June: Sapphire Ice and Leisure, Romford – 10am–2pm
- Thu 12 June: Central Park Leisure Centre, Harold Hill – 10am–12pm
- Fri 13 June: Rainham Leisure Centre – 10am–2pm
Tom Fletcher, Area Contract Manager at Everyone Active, said: "We’re proud to support Men’s Health Week and provide a platform for important conversations around men’s physical and mental wellbeing.
“By working with fantastic local organisations like APPLE and The Proper Blokes Club, we hope to encourage more men across Havering to take proactive steps in looking after their health.”
Councillor Gillian Ford, Deputy Leader of Havering Council and Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “This is a really innovative way to reduce stigma and support men across Havering this Men’s Health Week.
“Thanks to the volunteers of APPLE and The Proper Blokes Club in highlighting such important issues and being available to share their guidance and insight with others.”
Residents are encouraged to drop in, have a chat, and find out more about the support available to them.