Following the pandemic, access to GP appointments has been somewhat restricted.

As a result, Lancashire County Council has commissioned partners across Lancashire for the ‘Ease the Pressure’ project. 

Spring North is the leading partner in the blood pressure checks in the community project. 

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the second most common cause of premature death in England affecting over 136,000 people in Lancashire. The ‘Ease the Pressure’ Project aims to reduce CVD mortality and morbidity, tackle inequalities and deliver a genuine shift towards prevention.

High blood pressure increases the risk of heart failure, coronary artery disease and stroke (atrial fibrillation). It can also increase the risk of chronic kidney disease, peripheral arterial disease, and vascular dementia. High blood pressure is a significant contributor to health inequalities with residents of the most deprived areas in England 30% more likely to have high blood pressure compared to those in the least deprived areas.

As a result of the project, One Voice Blackburn aims to increase the detection and referral of people who possibly have high blood pressure. We also hope to increase the awareness surrounding high blood pressure and encourage individuals to keep an eye on their readings. 

Since the beginning of the project One Voice Blackburn as an organisation has visited many venues and supported at health roadshows across Rossendale and Bacup, offering free blood pressure checks to the community. The organisations’s main area of focus has been Preston. 

“We have targeted Deepdale shopping centre on more than one occasion, Sainsburys supermarket, Preston bus station, Community events, public parks and the local”

Mosque, says Project Lead Misbah Patel. “Whilst conducting the blood pressure checks we have received positive feedback from all members of the community with the demand for the service exceeding expectations.”

“We have engaged with over 200 members of the community from all ethnic backgrounds, ranging from 18 years all the way to 65+ years. Any high blood pressure readings that have been detected have enabled our staff to highlight this and prompt GP visits. We continue to offer opportunities for the public to attend our service and provide them with the information to take further steps if necessary.” 

Home monitoring can help you keep tabs on your blood pressure. It can make certain your medications and lifestyle changes are working.

Home blood pressure monitors are available widely and without a prescription. Talk to a health care provider about home monitoring before you get started.

Regular visits with a provider are also key to controlling blood pressure. 

Partners include: Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, Burnley FC Community Trust, Community Futures, Fleetwood Town Fc, Key, IMO charity, PNE Community Trust,