It was organised by Lambeth Together – which is a partnership between Lambeth Council, the NHS and the voluntary sector – alongside the inspire programme which was set up after the Covid-19 pandemic to tackle the big health inequalities faced by Black people in London.
The event at St Mark’s Church in Kennington was the borough’s third Black Communities Health and Wellbeing Day, and served as an opportunity to highlight the issues people face and provide on-hand advice and support in the community.
Councillor Jacqui Dyer, Lambeth’s Cabinet Member for Healthier Communities, said: “We know that there are serious racial inequalities in our healthcare system, particularly in mental health services, and Black people face significantly higher risks of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, mental health challenges and other health problems.
“As a partnership we’re dedicated to overcoming these challenges and this special event was the latest opportunity for residents to learn more about the various health checks, services and information available, all under one roof. Events like this are part of the process of removing barriers to accessing healthcare for all our communities.
“As a borough that is committed to Equity and Justice, events of this kind are so important in achieving our aims and this initiative will continue as we address these very real issues.”
The event featured a creative workshop organised by the Black Men’s Consortium games hosted by the ACE Programme, a charity reaching under-represented groups in cricket, and boxing pad session led by Fight 4 Change, the sports development charity. The Black Living Donor Choir, who promote much needed kidney donation among Black communities, performed at the event and its members shared their stories of living donor transplants.
In total there were more than 20 stalls offering a range of health and wellbeing information and checks. The Meet the Primary Care Team stall gave attendees health advice and information about GPs, pharmacies, dentist and opticians. King’s College Hospital, Macmillan’s breast cancer screening, King’s Kidney Health and Sickle Cell Awareness, Lambeth Cost of Living and Employability Skills, Diabetes Prevention, Prostate Cancer UK, Black Thrive, Lambeth Talking Therapies and Active Lambeth were also represented.
Cllr Dyer said: “The Inspire Black Communities Health and Wellbeing Day was a remarkable event that not only provided valuable health resources but also fostered a sense of community and mutual support. It stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in promoting health and wellness.”
