Offaly Men’s Health Week launches with Banagher event
Offaly Men’s Health Week got underway on last Saturday (June 13) with Mental Health Ireland’s 'Dips for Health' event at Banagher pool.
The event also featured a complimentary sauna experience, provided by Offaly Sports Partnership, to create an opportunity for participants to focus on both their physical and mental well-being.
Swim Ireland, the local lifeguard volunteers, Dee and Cian, and the Offaly Search and Recovery were on hand throughout the morning to supervise and support the event, and ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all attendees.
'Dips for Health' is a community well-being initiative organised by Mental Health Ireland that combines cold-water immersion, mindful connection and peer support. The dip was led by Ger Hough, local man and frequent dipper, alongside Karen Boylan and Conor Geoghegan from Mental Health Ireland.
Participants who took part in either the river dip or sauna experience were treated to complimentary tea and coffee, funded by Offaly Local Development Company. Voluntary donations were accepted via idonate in support of Accessible Counselling and Mental Health Ireland.
Midlands 103 broadcast live from the event and attendees received goody bags containing health and well-being information, as well as keyrings featuring details of local community support services.
Men’s Health Week is an internationally recognised awareness campaign observed across Europe and around the world. In Ireland, the campaign is co-ordinated by the Men’s Health Forum.
The week aims to raise awareness of preventable health issues affecting men and boys of all ages, support men and boys in making healthier lifestyle choices, and to encourage the early detection and treatment of health concerns.
The 2026 campaign encourages people across Ireland to improve the health and well-being of men and boys 'one step at a time', focusing on progress rather than perfection.
A wide range of activities are taking place throughout Offaly during Men’s Health Week, including fitness classes, drop-in cafés, activity afternoons, social walks, and well-being events.
A free schedule of local events is available from libraries across Offaly. The full programme can also be viewed on Offaly Local Development Company’s social media channels or by visiting the Men’s Health Forum in Ireland website at mhfi.org