International Women's Day event to be held at the Town Hall to promote women's health in the borough

International Women's Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is a time to reflect on the lives and accomplishments of women around the globe - as well as the issues that continue to affect them. The aim of this event in Great Yarmouth is to focus on the physical and mental health inequalities of women and girls in Great Yarmouth and what improvements can be made.

Statistically, the most common deaths caused by cancer in females in the UK are malignant neoplasms with a rate of 28.2%. These are tumours that begin in the breast and female genital organs and then spread to other parts of the body. NHS figures show that more than 35,000 women from the Norfolk and Waveney area missed their last screening for breast cancer.

The event will start with a morning conference from 9.30am to 12.30pm. The conference is for health care professionals and community groups to hear guest speakers, led by Dr Louise Smith, Director of Public Health, voice their views in relation to women's welfare in Great Yarmouth. Community groups, public health sector representatives and the council will all get the opportunity to contribute their ideas which will help create an action plan to improve women's health in the borough.

Community groups, such as those who support women with mental health issues or cancer, are encouraged to come along to explain the important work they undertake and how they already support the women they see. It is also a chance for community groups and the public sector to discuss how they can work together to enhance the existing help for women.

The second half of the day, from 1pm to 3pm, is open to anybody who wishes to attend. The afternoon will be an informal networking event where attendees can browse stands with information about health issues and well-being community activities.

Cllr Andy Grant, chairman of the Housing and Neighbourhood Committee, said: "This is a great chance for local community groups and healthcare professionals to discuss any issues, as well as have a say on the future action plan for women's health in Great Yarmouth."  

Jo Howes, Manager at DIAL, said: "This is a great opportunity to promote health and well-being for women living within the Borough and will give individuals the opportunity to discuss and overcome personal barriers in accessing local health services. It will also give women the chance to talk with likeminded individuals who meet on a regular basis within the Borough."

Cllr Penny Carpenter, who has assisted in organising the event, said: "As a woman, I'm very passionate about women's health and will always help promote it.

"In 2018, the number of women aged between 50 and 70 who attended their mammograms in Great Yarmouth was the lowest it had been since 2011/12. We need to see these figures grow and events like today are a vital part in making that happen."