An estimated 88,000 people across mid and south Essex are living with undiagnosed high blood pressure. Since high blood pressure often has no symptoms, we're encouraging people to get checked. Our local pharmacies offer free blood pressure checks. High blood pressure (hypertension) often has no symptoms, but it can increase your risk of serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and dementia. The only way to know if your blood pressure is high is to have it checked. Why checking your blood pressure matters ✔ High blood pressure usually has no warning signs ✔ Early detection reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke ✔ Treatment and lifestyle changes can lower your risk ✔ A quick check could protect your long-term health Who should have their blood pressure checked? Adults aged 40 and over should have their blood pressure checked regularly People with conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or heart problems may need more frequent checks Anyone with a fam

Discover the crucial reasons why regular checkups are vital for maintaining health, from early disease detection to building rapport with healthcare providers.

This blog post provides insights on common symptoms that warrant a visit to the GP, detailing when to seek medical advice and offering actionable health management tips.

From 1 April 2026, Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) will introduce a new Community Musculoskeletal (MSK) and Pain Service. This new service is designed to improve access to care, enhance patient experience and support better health outcomes. The new approach aims to ensure: you are seen sooner more care is provided closer to home, in community settings hospital appointments are reserved for patients who need specialist or surgical care Who will provide the service? The service will be delivered by Cora Health, working in partnership with Provide CIC. It will offer a single, joined-up pathway for adults aged 16 and over across mid and south Essex, including: access to physiotherapy pain management support rheumatology services assessment for orthopaedic conditions selected surgical procedures (such as carpal tunnel and podiatric surgery) What this means for you Easier access to the right care A Single Point of Access will make it simpler to access MSK, orthopaedic, rheuma

Breast screening is one of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early — often before any symptoms are noticed. Finding cancer at an early stage can make treatment more successful and significantly improve survival rates. In England, women aged 50 to 71 are routinely invited for breast screening every 3 years as part of the NHS Breast Screening Programme. If you are over 71, you can still request screening. Screening uses a low-dose X-ray (mammogram) to identify changes in breast tissue that may be too small to see or feel. Why attending screening matters ✔ Early detection saves lives ✔ Treatment is more effective when cancer is found early ✔ Screening can detect cancer before symptoms appear ✔ Most people screened are reassured that no cancer is present When you will be invited You will automatically receive an invitation letter between ages 50 and 71. If you think you missed your appointment, you can contact your local screening service to rearrange. 👉 Learn more about bre

The Kids Autism Hub offers information, peer support, and community connections for autistic young people and their families. Through the hub you can: Access accurate autism information Join weekly online peer support groups Hear from other families and young people Explore services across Essex, Southend & Thurrock This supportive community helps families feel informed, connected, and understood. How do I join? The Hub welcomes you to self refer. Follow the link autismhub.kids.org.uk/self-refer