More than 400 residents across mid and south Essex discovered they had high blood pressure and started treatment, thanks to a local NHS community outreach programme that helps people access support sooner.
NHS Mid and South Essex funded the Cardiovascular Disease Community Outreach Grants Scheme, which enabled 17 Primary Care Networks (PCNs) to deliver 29 community health events during 2025. These events brought NHS services directly into local communities and made it easier for residents to check their heart health.
Healthcare teams reached more than 1,650 residents through the programme. They offered blood pressure checks, NHS health checks, and referrals to stop smoking services and weight management support.
Early diagnosis helps prevent serious illness
Through the outreach events, 484 residents were screened specifically for high blood pressure. Of these, 89 people – nearly one in five – have since brought their blood pressure under control with treatment and support.
As a result, it is estimated that around 12 heart attacks and strokes could be prevented over the next five years.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, often has no symptoms. However, if left untreated, it can significantly increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other serious health conditions. Early detection is therefore vital.
Local resident shares life-changing experience
Kevin Collett, aged 63, from Braintree, discovered he had dangerously high blood pressure after attending a Healthy Heart event organised by Braintree Primary Care Network.
A routine check showed his blood pressure was 192/115, which is significantly above the normal range. Kevin said:
I had a full clinical assessment, was immediately given a prescription and told to get some medication from a pharmacy just 100 yards down the road. I took the first dose at the pharmacy.
I went back to my GP shortly after for further investigations which included an electrocardiogram and 24-hour blood pressure monitoring.
Following treatment and ongoing support, Kevin’s blood pressure is now within a healthy range.
I wasn’t aware my blood pressure was that high and I could have had a heart attack or stroke. The one-to-one support has made a big difference. I had all these tests and follow-ups because my blood pressure was checked at this event.
NHS leaders encourage residents to check their blood pressure
This work is a major step toward our goal of ensuring that 80% of people with hypertension receive effective, targeted treatment. By reaching this ambition, we could prevent an estimated 137 heart attacks and 204 strokes over the next three years.
Dr Matt Sweeting, Executive Medical Director at NHS Essex
High blood pressure affects one in four adults in the UK and can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, heart disease, and stroke.
Dr Reg Rehal, System Clinical Lead for Cardio Metabolic Health
These community events have made a real difference by reaching people who may not otherwise access routine health checks. They are helping us reduce health inequalities and ensure more residents receive the support they need to stay well.
Nearly 20% of attendees were from groups at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including people from ethnic minority communities and those with learning disabilities.
How to check your blood pressure in Essex
Residents are encouraged to check their blood pressure regularly. This can be done in several convenient ways:
- Visit a participating community pharmacy for a free blood pressure check
- Attend your GP practice, including using a self-check pod where available
- Borrow a monitor through the Essex County Council blood pressure monitor loan scheme
- Use a home blood pressure monitor
- Attend an NHS Health Check if invited
Checking your blood pressure is quick, simple, and could help prevent serious health problems.
For more information, speak to your GP practice or local pharmacy.