Lambeth Council has successfully bid to take part in two new government pilots that aim to cut the risk of cardiovascular disease (diseases of the heart and circulatory system). The council prioritised the bid because those diseases disproportionality affects Black communities.
Workplace checks
These Department of Health and Social Care-funded programmes feature workplace cardiovascular disease health checks and Digital NHS Health Checks. The results will be analysed against national data as they progress to measure their impact.
Word from the Cabinet
Cllr Tim Windle, Lambeth’s joint Cabinet Member for Healthier Communities, said: “These pilots are a real opportunity for Lambeth Council to continue its vital work towards the reduction of health inequalities across the borough.
“Both pilots are hoped to improve convenience and ease of access to these life-saving checks for the people of Lambeth, part of a programme that nationally prevents 300 premature deaths each year.”
What are NHS Health Checks?
The NHS Health Check Programme is a national programme designed to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. Checks are usually done at a GP practice or in the community and aim to prevent heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, and some cases of dementia. Eligible adults aged 40-74 years are invited every 5 years.
Risk of heart disease is calculated during the check and where needed people are supported to reduce their risk through behaviour change interventions, such as weight management, and treatment where needed.
Why are these pilots important for Lambeth?
Cardiovascular disease in England is a leading cause of death and disability, but 80 per cent of it is preventable.
The disease is a major cause of death in Lambeth, and a leading contributor to health inequalities. Black communities are more at risk and Lambeth also has a higher than average levels of deprivation which is also a risk factor. NHS Health Checks are key in reducing their risk.
Cardiovascular Disease Health Check pilot
This programme will see employers offer comprehensive heart health checks that can detect people at higher risk of a range of diseases and help them to access effective treatment or take preventative action.
This pilot will run in Lambeth from September until March next year and checks will take place in workplaces across Lambeth.
More information
- To find out more about the NHS Health Checks pilots, please see news from the DHSC on the Gov.UK website
- The Digital NHS Health Checks pilot, providing an accessible and convenient health check service face to face or online will start early next year.
