Check your blood pressure – at the library
Whitby Library in North Yorkshire pilots scheme to reduce pressure on local GPs by offering self-check blood service to locals
High blood pressure is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can lead to further major health problems such as heart and kidney failure, strokes and vascular dementia. Yet, according to the charity Age UK, about 16m people in the country – roughly one in three of all adults – is thought to have high blood pressure. That rate rises to 50% of all those over 65.
Photo courtesy Jenna McGovern / North Yorkshire Council
Regularly checking your blood pressure is a quick, easy way to avoid further complications. But that depends on access to monitoring equipment. Perhaps ironically, such demand itself puts pressure on GP practices where monitoring is usually done.
This is a particular concern in North Yorkshire given that, according to the 2021 census, it has a much higher population of residents over 65 than the national average (some 25% compared to 18.4%).
Hence North Yorkshire Council is trialling a new scheme to make monitoring stations available in our community spaces. Two blood pressure monitors are now available at Whitby Library. One is a self-service monitor based in the library itself, provided with easy-to-follow guidance. The other is one that can be loaned out to users to use at home, for a period of up to 10 days.
If the pilot scheme proves successful, it can be expanded across the region – and perhaps more widely.
North Yorkshire Council is responsible for 43 libraries across the region. Other services are already on offer in these libraries include computer and online support, health and well-being events and advice for learners and jobseekers.
Nic Harne, Corporate Director of Community Development at North Yorkshire Council, says: ‘Once again our libraries are proving to be much more than books. Our library strategy includes working with local communities and helping to promote improved health and wellbeing which this pilot demonstrates.
‘We have joined with our public health team in offering the service to alleviate pressure on doctor’s surgeries, as there are waiting lists for access to blood pressure machines. As a well-used space in the town, we hope many people take advantage of the new service.’
Louise Wallace, Director of Public Health at the council, adds: ‘Monitoring your blood pressure is incredibly important and spotting abnormalities can save lives. We hope identifying any problems can be a catalyst to individuals contacting their local community pharmacy. High blood pressure can result in heart attacks and strokes and isn’t just a worry for older people. We are delighted to partner with Whitby Library to deliver such a worthwhile service.
‘Many people fail to do this simple check, so we urge as many as possible to visit their library and use the monitors.’
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