Local residents benefit from free blood pressure checks

A community health event in Peckham has helped more than 140 residents get vital health advice, part of a wider initiative to tackle undiagnosed high blood pressure and reduce health inequalities across south east London.

Delivered by The Ernest Foundation in partnership with Lister Practice, the event used a new blood pressure screening tool designed to bring preventative care into trusted community spaces. It enables trained community members and clinicians to deliver blood pressure checks, give tailored health advice, and signpost people to support services.

The tool is now being rolled out across south east London thanks to the South East London Integrated Care Board Health Inequalities Fund, with support from the Health Innovation Network (HIN) South London, King’s Health Partners, Clinical Effectiveness South East London, and the South London Cardiac Operational Delivery Network. Several community organisations are planning events over the coming weeks and months, alongside clinical partners such as GP surgeries and community pharmacies.

More than 250 people attended the event in Peckham (pictured below), with 142 receiving blood pressure checks. Of those, 21 were referred to their GP for follow-up, including two with severely high readings. 

Ernest Nkrumah, CEO, The Ernest Foundation, said: “Simple community events offering free blood pressure checks can make a powerful difference, helping people take control of their health early, prevent complications, and build a healthier community together.”

High blood pressure (also called hypertension) affects around 15% of adults south east London, with rates rising to nearly 19% in some boroughs. Many people remain undiagnosed, particularly in communities facing barriers to traditional healthcare, such as racially minoritised groups, people living in poverty, and those with long-term conditions. Left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other serious health issues.

The community blood pressure tool was developed by residents, clinicians, and voluntary sector organisations to tackle these issues. It includes practical guidance, scripts, and visual aids to support conversations about blood pressure in a way that’s sensitive to people’s backgrounds and experiences.

Healthy blood pressure is one of five key areas for long-term health and wellbeing – alongside stop smoking, safe drinking, healthy mind, and healthy weight – known collectively as the Vital 5. The Vital 5 programme is part of the Prevention, Wellbeing and Equity partnership, which aims to improve population health and reduce inequalities across south east London.

The Ernest Foundation, which led the Peckham event, is a charity dedicated to promoting a healthy and resilient community. Their Health in Harmony programme is a community-based initiative that supports the physical, mental, and economic well-being of disadvantaged and marginalised residents across Southwark and neighbouring boroughs.

Keep an eye out for more blogs and updates as the project develops.