Free blood pressure monitor loan scheme introduced at Hillingdon libraries

Delivered in partnership with NHS West London and the Confederation Hillingdon CIC, the blood pressure monitors will be available to borrow free of charge from three Hillingdon libraries.  

The initiative began during this month's Heart Month, the British Heart Foundation's annual campaign to educate residents about vital lifesaving skills and how to spot the signs of heart disease.  

It is estimated that more than 43,000 adults in Hillingdon suffer from undiagnosed hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. In many cases, there are no symptoms, but it can lead to more serious health problems like cardiovascular disease or strokes. 

Eligible adult residents over 18 years old, library members and most Hillingdon registered patients can borrow the kits for a two-week period, to carry out regular blood pressure checks at home and gather sufficient data for their doctor to assess.  

The kits will be available for loan from the following libraries (subject to availability):   

• Botwell Green  
•  Ruislip Manor  
• Uxbridge 

Blood pressure monitors have also been installed at each of the libraries, allowing residents to test out the machine by taking a one-off measurement and help to determine if they would benefit from using the loan scheme.

Once readings have been recorded for seven consecutive days, residents can take a copy of the results to their local surgery, or to any of the libraries participating in the scheme, so the data can be uploaded to their records and reviewed by a doctor or nurse. 

Cllr Jane Palmer, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said: "We're delighted to be working with our health partners to offer this free blood pressure monitor loan scheme, this is another example of partnership working which is a vital part of our commitment to helping residents live healthier lives." 

"High blood pressure is a major cause of diseases such as heart attacks and strokes, so it's crucial to identify the signs early. Early intervention means residents can start making healthy lifestyle changes or get the required medical advice from a doctor well before serious symptoms occur." 

To mark Heart Month, the council is hosting a range of events and activities in libraries, designed to encourage a healthier lifestyle and a healthier heart. View the full list of events by visiting discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/heart-month. 

For more information about the blood pressure monitor loan scheme and to check your eligibility, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/blood-pressure-kits.