Students Launch Health Event Inspired by OddBalls Foundation

Second year Health and Social Care students recently took part in an inspiring men’s health awareness session, as Lily, a student ambassador from the OddBalls Foundation and a student at the University of Greenwich, visited the college to raise awareness of testicular cancer.

Alongside her studies at the University of Greenwich, Lily spoke about how her ambassador role with the OddBalls Foundation has opened up exciting opportunities, including sponsored trips, networking experiences and the chance to develop leadership, communication and public speaking skills while supporting an important national campaign.

The session brought together around 25 students from Health and Social Care, as well as learners from IT and Business, for an engaging and informative discussion focused on the importance of men’s health and early cancer detection.

Organised with support from Beth Alexander at the OddBalls Foundation, the event provided students with valuable resources and practical advice. During the session, Lily spoke openly about testicular cancer, highlighting how important it is for young men to regularly self-check for any changes and to seek medical advice promptly if anything unusual is noticed.

Through discussion, activities and a question-and-answer session, students were encouraged to challenge stigma surrounding men’s health and to have more open conversations about topics that are often overlooked.

The session made a real impact, with many students surprised to learn how common testicular cancer can be among young men their own age.

One student commented that they had always assumed testicular cancer was something that affected older men, adding that the session had encouraged them to take self-checking more seriously and to talk to fathers, brothers and other family members about the importance of early detection.

Their teacher, Merle Fleming, said: “As part of their final Health Promotion assignment, our Health and Social Care students will now build on what they have learned by planning and delivering their own large-scale health awareness event in the foyer at Hammersmith in June. This is a fantastic opportunity for them to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting while raising awareness of important health issues across the college community.”

The event, which will be open to all students, will feature interactive stands, competitions, games and opportunities to speak with students about a range of health topics, with a particular focus on men’s health awareness”.

The project aligns with the UK Government’s new 10-year health plan, which identifies men’s health as a key priority for improving awareness, early intervention and long-term health outcomes.

Lily has also confirmed that she will return to the college for the event, accompanied by additional ambassadors from the OddBalls Foundation, helping the students bring this important message to an even wider audience.