Blood Pressure Checks (CVD Prevention Project)
Reducing barriers to accessing appointments through community health support
This project focused on preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD) by bringing free blood pressure and health checks directly into the community.
Delivered through the Paignton Community Hub, the project responded to local evidence showing that people in Torbay are six times more likely to die from heart disease, with 1 in 6 cases linked to preventable CVD. Feedback highlighted that barriers to accessing GP appointments for routine checks were contributing to this risk.
What the project has done
- Delivered free, community-based blood pressure and health checks in a central, accessible location
- Repurposed a front-facing space in Paignton Library to create a visible, drop-in health offer
- Worked in partnership with Primary Care, Public Health and a local GP surgery
- Enabled residents to access support without needing a GP appointment
- Provided advice, follow-up monitoring and pathways into primary care where needed
Impact and outcomes
- 359 blood pressure readings delivered within the community
- 131 people identified with raised or high blood pressure (over one third of those tested)
- Increased early identification of people at risk of cardiovascular disease
- Improved access to low-level healthcare support without appointment barriers
- Strong engagement from residents who may not otherwise access routine checks
- Demonstrated how community settings can effectively support early intervention and prevention
- Reduced pressure on GP services by shifting routine checks into the community
- Evidence from the project was presented to the Adult Social Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Board, who recognised it as a strong example of community-based prevention
Key Reports
Latest news and events
This project is ongoing. Here are the latest updates, news and events.
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