Successful Health Initiative Docks Safely in Strangford

Strangford was awash with activity on Saturday 20 January as the Downpatrick District Electoral Area’s (DEA) Health Initiative took place.  The event, which was organised in partnership with the County Down Rural Community Network, saw over 80 people from the locality avail of a free health assessment.  The free assessments which ranged from mammograms to diabetes checks were carried out by the Action Cancer Big Bus and the Farm Families bus in a very professional manner.

Downpatrick DEA Chairperson, Councillor John Trainor stated, “People living in rural areas, in particular those from the farming community can find it difficult finding the time to get to their doctors.  This was a great opportunity to bring this service to the people of Strangford and surrounding area and ensure a full health MOT.  January is a great time of year for people to assess their health and to start making changes to ensure a longer and healthier life.  The Downpatrick DEA is committed to protecting the health and wellbeing of its residents and will continue to provide this service to other rural areas on an on-going basis.”

In addition to the health checks the PSNI were present carrying out free trailer marking to protect them for theft.  Once again this was a free service offered to members of the community to provide additional security for their equipment and give them an opportunity to meet and get to know local PSNI officers. 

If you require any further information on any of the Downpatrick DEA initiatives please contact Katrina Hynds, Downpatrick DEA Co-ordinator on 078 0383 2512 or katrina.hynds@nmandd.org