Last weekend’s Mudgee Small Farm Field Days was the latest event for the Spanner in the Works? men’s health program. Following the foundation forged at the Henty Field Days (supported by AMSA partner Uncle Tobys), these men’s health check/chat programs are reaching men that haven’t seen their local doctor since the last blue moon… or maybe even longer!
AMSA Shed Development Coordinator – Health and Wellbeing, Stuart got a little too enthusiastic inviting any and every male to have a health check chat. Students from Western Sydney University Rural School performed blood pressure and blood sugar checks along with a holistic health survey.
Utilising students from numerous health streams to conduct the health check/chats serves two very important functions. The participants start a conversation about their health and have a great introduction to the health network. The students get some much-needed clinician/patient interaction time without the pressure of an intense environment such as the emergency department, learning to and how to ask those important questions that will draw out the health and wellbeing needs of their clients.
The Mudgee Men’s Shed were in the right place at the right time, being able to support such an important health initiative as well as being able to showcase their Shed facilities and projects past and present to the teams of visitors and other Shedders that come for a look-see. The shedders displayed their lead lighting endeavours, as well as some creative steel man construction going on in the metal shop.
Health events like these are prime examples of health events worthy of NSDP funding. This could be a small suicide awareness workshop, regional shed gathering with health education and local health organisations setting up stands and engaging attendees. Read more about NSDP grants here.
Talk to AMSA Shed Development Coordinator – Wellbeing and Health, Stuart Torrance to discuss your ideas and take a look at the Men’s Shed Gathering and Health event manual.