University of Lancashire to host annual free Preston Health Mela in April

The University of Lancashire’s annual free health and wellbeing event will return in April.

The Preston Health Mela will take place on 11 April, in partnership with the University’s School of Medicine and Dentistry and the National Forum of Health and Wellbeing (NFHW).

Taking place in the Foster Social Space, located in the Foster Building at the University’s Preston Campus, the event is free for all members of the public to attend, offering free blood pressure and general health checks alongside blood tests for sugar and cholesterol levels.

Younger visitors can visit the teddy bear clinic and test out their skills on the smoothie bike. More than 70 stall holders from the NHS and the third sector will also be in attendance.

The Mela will run from 10am to 3pm for people to drop in. It will also be an occasion to celebrate the National Health and Wellbeing’s 25th anniversary.

The University of Lancashire has hosted the Preston Health Mela since 2015, working with the NFHW to promote better health and wellbeing in the community.

NFHW Chair, Professor Romesh Gupta OBE, said: “We always look forward to welcoming the community to University’s Preston Campus, where we we can continue to make a positive difference in people’s lives and encourage positive health and wellbeing.

“Whether young or old, we look forward to seeing you on Saturday 11 April.”

The University’s Creative Communities Group (CCG) is proud to have been involved in the NFHW partnership since its formation in 2012.

Russell Hogarth University of Lancashire Honorary Fellow, Chair of the CCG, and National Forum for Health and Wellbeing CEO, added: ‘’Congratulations to Professor Romesh Gupta and all my fellow NFHW colleagues on the 25th anniversary of the Health Mela initiative.

“The NFHW has successfully developed collaborative partnerships across Lancashire and Yorkshire and this partnership approach has been the backbone of the NFHW success for the last 25 years. CCG University staff and student members are looking forward to supporting the Health Melas throughout the 2026 anniversary year.

“A special thank you to Dr Alison Carr, Dean of School of Medicine and Dentistry, and all her staff and students for supporting the Preston Health Mela again this year.”

Anyone interested in attending or want more information can email Professor Romesh Gupta ([email protected]) or Russell Hogarth ( [email protected]).