Our pioneering men’s health awareness event, ‘The Fella’s Fair’, will be proudly hosted by Billericay Town FC on Saturday 19th July, delivered by Healthwatch Essex in partnership with Prostate Cancer UK, Basildon Council and the Essex County FA.
Strategically located at one of Essex’s most recognised football venues, The Fella’s Fair will bring together a wide range of men’s health charities. By engaging with audiences through sport, the event aims to break down barriers and start important conversations about physical and mental health. It’s designed to connect with men through the power of football, and the fair will offer vital health advice, screenings and support to attendees across the county.
A Walking Football Tournament will kick-off at 11:00am, then a further ‘mini’ Walking Football competition will follow from 1:00pm, featuring a Prostate Cancer Survivor Team and an Arsenal Prostate Cancer Squad. This will build-up to an 11v11 Billericay Town vs Aldershot Town pre-season friendly in the main stadium at 3:00pm, with free entry before 1:00pm.
“It’s great to have Billericay Town FC working in partnership with Healthwatch Essex, Prostate Cancer UK and Basildon Borough Council for such an important event to shine a light on men’s health,” said Sian Hillis, Essex County FA Football Development Officer for Basildon, Castle Point, Rochford, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock. “The project offers huge value to the football community and will bring people together and get them talking.”
Visitors to the event will also have the opportunity to explore how football – particularly Walking Football – is playing a growing role in supporting the wellbeing of men aged 50 and over. With a specific focus on prostate health, the event will provide information on risk factors, early detection and specialist services.
Jake Fairman, Essex County FA Development Officer and Male Pathway Lead, added: “The Fella’s Fair is a fantastic opportunity for Billericay Town to host an event raising awareness of men’s physical and mental health in Essex, using Walking Football as the tool.”
“During the 2024 FA Walking Football Cup, research was carried out showing 81.3% of participants hardly ever felt lonely, compared to 67.3% of people aged 50+ in England, with 83% also feeling like they improved their social connections. This shows the impact Walking Football can have on men, both nationally and here in Essex.”
Scott Tatum, Engagement Manager at Healthwatch Essex, said: “The Healthwatch Essex Fella’s Fairs are established events which have been produced around Essex, funded by the Mid and South NHS. The Fella’s Fairs raise awareness of the support and guidance available to men to improve their physical and mental wellbeing. This is done by implementing a safe and non-judgemental environment where men can speak freely and gain the support they may require for themselves or their loved ones.”
Make a date in your diary for Saturday 19th July and visit Billericay Town FC for a day which could change lives. More details are available at www.essexfa.com.