Following the example of the BBC’s “Street Doctor” the Healthy Living Network took to the streets and other locations in disadvantage areas of Nuneaton & Bedworth.

Using a large lollipop with “STOP – HEALTH MOT “a health check was offered including weight, blood pressure and diet. Its an informal way to engage individuals and begin a dialogue about health and wellbeing. They were delivered during the summer in parks, car parks, industrial estates and outside shops, in the winter in bingo halls, social clubs, and public houses.

181 people participated, 120 were men. All were given advice about the importance of a healthy weight, exercising regularly, consequences of high blood pressure and smoking and how to improve their diet.

Everyone was encouraged to enter a free prize draw and provide contact details for follow up. Where health concerns were identified individuals were referred to their GP or other provider, a follow up was undertaken by telephone a week later.

“What a good idea! I don’t have time to visit my GP with my long hours” Male 41

“I had no idea that my blood pressure was high, I have made an appointment to see my GP today” Male 56

For more information about the project please contact:

Sonya Johnson

Nuneaton & Bedworth Health Living Network

Telephone: (024) 7686 5537