Cheltenham Community Groups Offer Free Blood Pressure Checks
Free Blood Pressure Checks Available Through Cheltenham Community Organisations
Ten Cheltenham-based community groups are now offering free blood pressure checks, thanks to £45,000 in funding from NHS Gloucestershire. The initiative aims to reach around 1,600 people by the end of 2026, providing accessible health screenings alongside the groups’ existing support services.
Details
The funding was secured by Springbank Community Group CiC, who will distribute blood pressure testing equipment and contribute towards the running costs of the participating organisations. These include Caring for Communities and People (CCP), Cornerstone Centre, West Cheltenham Pantry, Lakeside Community Project, Fresh Hope (School House Cafe), Cheltenham Foodbank, Men in Sheds, Indian Association, and YMCA Cheltenham.
These community hubs already offer a range of services such as food support, financial guidance, healthy living activities, and social opportunities. By integrating blood pressure checks into their existing programmes, they can reach individuals who may not typically access healthcare services.
Councillor Izaac Tailford, cabinet member for economic development, wellbeing, culture and public realm, said: “By bringing free checks into the community, more people can get tested as part of their everyday routines. These community groups already support residents in so many ways, and adding quick blood pressure checks means individuals can get a simple test and early advice.”
Faith Rooke-Matthews, director of operations at Springbank Community Group CiC, added: “Community hubs see people every day who may not come forward for a health check elsewhere. With this funding from NHS Gloucestershire, we can offer free blood pressure checks in a setting people already feel comfortable in. It means we can start conversations earlier and support individuals with the advice or follow‑up they may need.”
What You Need to Know
The free blood pressure check programme is expected to run until the end of December 2026. Residents can access the services by visiting the participating community organisations in Cheltenham.\n
\n