Empowering Wellness: A Recap of the Successful Community Health Fair in Kilcooley and Bangor
Recently, Kilcooley Women’s Centre, in collaboration with the Kilcooley Health Improvement Partnership, spearheaded a cross sectoral wellbeing initiative aimed at promoting healthy living in Kilcooley and Bangor. The Community Health Fair, held at the KWC Square One complex in Kilcooley estate, brought together a diverse array of health providers and community organisations to offer a comprehensive range of services and resources.
A Unified Effort for Health and Wellbeing: The Community Health Fair was a testament to the power of community collaboration and collective action. Managed by the dedicated team at Kilcooley Women’s Centre, the event served as a hub for health promotion and education, drawing in over 180 members of the community. Planning of the event over the previous months included engagement with KWC, the Health Trust, Mental and Sexual Health Specialists, Community Dieticians, Social Services & Early Years, New Parent Programme, Health Visiting and Midwifery, and the Health Development team within South Eastern Trust.
A Multifaceted Approach to Wellness: The fair featured an impressive lineup of exhibitors, including various health specialists from the South Eastern Trust, Public Health Agency, SureStart, Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Focus, Kilcooley Primary School, Women’s Aid, and local dieticians. From health checks and holistic therapies to demonstrations on wellbeing and smoking / vaping cessation support, attendees were spoiled for choice when it came to enhancing their health and wellness. The overall aim and objective of the event was to help tackle the huge health inequalities faced by residents of the area, and in particular address the impact of child and family poverty on the determinants of health.
Empowering Community Support: The Kilcooley Pantry, Bangor’s Social Supermarket, which is managed by KILCOOLEY WOMEN’S CENTRE played a pivotal role in the fair, offering vital information on food security, budget-friendly eating, and assistance with debt management and benefit advice. Additionally, the event saw the participation of Bangor Alternatives, Kilcooley Community Forum, West Church and the Policing Community Safety Partnership, further reinforcing the sense of community support and empowerment.
A Collaborative Success: The success of the Community Health Fair would not have been possible without the support of the Public Health Agency (PHA), Ards and North Down Borough Council, the Department for Communities – DfC (Neighbourhood Renewal Team), and dedicated officers and health specialists who contributed their time and expertise to the event. Together, they ensured that the fair was a resounding success and left a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of the community.
Looking Ahead: As we reflect on the success of the Community Health Fair, we are inspired by the spirit of collaboration and determination that drove its success. Kilcooley Women’s Centre remains committed to empowering individuals and communities to lead healthy, fulfilling lives, and looks forward to future initiatives that continue to promote health and wellbeing for all.
The Community Health Fair was more than just an event – it was a celebration of community resilience, solidarity, and empowerment. As we continue our journey towards better health and wellness, let us carry forward the lessons learned and the connections made at the fair, and work together to create a healthier, happier future for Kilcooley and Bangor.
Stay tuned for more updates and initiatives from Kilcooley Women’s Centre as we continue to champion health and wellbeing in our community!
