Posted: 18/11/10
College tackles festive risk-taking
A three-day health event is being staged at West Nottinghamshire College to encourage students to enjoy themselves over the festive period without putting themselves at risk.
The health event is being staged at three of the college’s campuses to raise awareness among students of the dangers of high-risk behaviour during the party season and how to stay safe and healthy.
Staff from the college’s health, safety and welfare team will be offering confidential appointments for students to obtain Chlamydia screening tests. Statistics show one in 14 sexually active under 24-year-olds have the sexually transmitted infection, which doesn’t usually have any signs or symptoms. When left untreated, it can cause infertility.
Representatives from Let’s Build, Mansfield’s alcohol and substance misuse service, will be on hand to advise students of risks associated with drugs and alcohol to ensure they have a safe and happy party season.
Also attending the events on 22, 23 and 25 November will be members of Mansfield Association of Licensed Venues (MALV) who will be talking to students of drinking age about appropriate behaviour when socialising in the town's bars and clubs.
Students will have the chance to try out the ‘beer goggles’ challenge. Vision-distorting goggles show students the effects of alcohol while they aim to undertake a task that involves concentration and balance. Free turkey korma and vegetable soup will be some of the festive foods available to sample.
Team leader of the college’s health, safety and welfare team, Jamie Wragg, said: “Our pre-Christmas health shows for students will incorporate healthy advice along with fun activities. We’re not here to preach to our learners, but offer them sound advice about looking after themselves during the Christmas period.
“Together with representatives from local organisations we want to ensure young people enjoy the festive season while remembering to stay safe.”
The health events take place on the following days:
22 November – 10am-2pm: Construction and Logistics Skills Academy, Station Park, Kirkby-in-Ashfield
23 November – 10am-2pm: West One diner at the Derby Road campus, Mansfield
25 November – 10am-2pm: Gallery diner at the Chesterfield Road campus, Mansfield.
