A men’s health and wellbeing event is being held in Prestwick in memory of businessman Kevin Finnie.
The free “not to be missed” event includes contributions from a number of guest speakers including consultant Dr David Chung, Alan Currie from Wossobama Gym, former Central Ayrshire MP Dr Philipa Whitford and former Commonwealth athlete Mary McClung.
A Take The Plunge for Scottish Action For Mental Health fundraiser is also being held as part of the event at Prestwick Community Centre.
Kevin, who made his name in the hospitality industry and owned a number of venues across Ayrshire, died aged 55 in July.
Men and women are invited to attend the event on Saturday, November 30 from 11am to 2pm.
Although the event is being organised by the SNP’s Prestwick branch and Ayr Constituency Association, the event is non-political.
Kirste Johnston, SNP Prestwick women and equalities officer said: “The impact of men not engaging in their health and wellbeing, can be devastating. In many cases leading to early death through poor physical health or in some cases suicide from poor mental health.
“The stigma created from old fashioned views of male stereotypes and societal pressures that expect men to be brave and not seen to cry causes many men to mask their physical and mental challenges.
“It is so important that changes and our communities foster a culture that allows men to be vulnerable and feel supported. We are really excited and delighted about this free community event.
“It’s really varied and has something for everyone, men and women of all ages. We are very grateful for the support of the donation of time from all the speakers, and those involved in helping pull this event together.
“Also important to note, although the funding for the event to be free was kindly sponsored by Ayr Constituency Association, and Prestwick SNP, this event is non political. It’s all about bringing our community together in support of improving health for everyone.”
Jim McLay added: “We feel that if raising awareness of the importance of men’s mental and physical well-being by hosting and publicising this event encourages one person to speak to someone when they are not okay, or it encourages someone to check in with someone when they feel they aren’t it will have been so worthwhile.”
Speaking on the day will be Dr David Chung, a local and leading consultant from Crosshouse A&E, who will do some myth busting and discuss the impacts of drugs, alcohol and violence.
Mary McClung, former Team Scotland athlete, coach and qualified mind fitness coach, has also agreed to speak at the event.
A brave local citizen Tom, who volunteers with Chest, Heart and Stoke Scotland, will share his inspiring journey of recovery from trauma.
Alan Currie, from Wossobama Gym in Ayr, is doing a motivational talk and anyone with a ticket for the event and who attends on the day, will also have access to a free one week class pass to Wossobama Gym, and the option to have a free mental health check with Alan.
Kevan Fulton is an Ayrshire & Arran Mindfulness therapist/teacher, who will share his expertise on mindfulness techniques that help encourage and support better mental wellbeing.
Live music from Prestwick musician, Alan Frew – who opened for Paulo Nutini and Texas before going solo – will be aimed at uplifting everyone’s spirits.
To round off the day, there will be a Wim Hoff Cold Water Submersion fundraiser – Take The Plunge for Scottish Action For Mental Health. Gemma Collins will be talking about the benefits of cold water submersion and a number of volunteers will be submersed for three minutes in an ice and cold water tub.
To register for the event visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mens-health-wellbeing-event-tickets-1069521540719
To donate to the Scottish Action for Mental Health fundraiser, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/-173074301217
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