Health checks at the pub

NHS chiefs in Warrington have hit on a new idea to overcome the reluctance of men to have health checks – they are holding them in pubs.
Customers at two locals will get more than two pints of lager and a packet of crisps if they drop in this week.
Mine hosts Cath McLean, at The Poplars, Orford and John Shannon at The Howley, on Parr Street, Howley have agreed to help local men make healthier life choices
by working with NHS Warrington and Cheshire and Merseyside Partnerships for Health (CHAMPS) to arrange on-site health checks.
The checks will include cholesterol, weight and blood sugar level checks in addition to advice about drinking.
Historically, one of the biggest risks to men’s health is their reluctance to seek help from support services.
According to the Men’s Health Forum, men are much less likely than women to use primary health care services, with some claiming that GP surgeries are “feminised environments” and that “they just don’t have time to see their GP”.
By holding the health checks in relaxed environments NHS Warrington hopes to raise awareness of the importance of regular health checks among Warrington’s men, whilst also providing general health and well being advice.
Jane Knight who leads NHS Warrington’s alcohol programme said: “We’re hoping to roll this out to other venues across the town, to ensure we get health services right to people that need them. All too often men miss out on vital health checks, which in many cases could help to prevent more serious conditions developing.”
Cath McLean, landlord at The Poplars said: “It’s a really great idea, to deliver health checks in places that people feel comfortable.”
Health checks at The Howley will take place tomorrow (Wednesday) between 12 noon and 2pm and at The Poplars on Thursday (February 10) from 5pm-7pm.