People over 40 in parts of Huddersfield are being offered free community-based health checks to help tackle health inequalities.

A pilot project has been launched this week by Kirklees Council in the Golcar, Crosland Moor, Netherton, Newsome, Greenhead, Ashbrow and Lindley wards.

Residents over 40, who do not have pre-existing conditions, are being offered the checks. The pilot is being rolled out in specific areas of Kirklees that have a higher prevalence of serious health issues.

Research shows that black and Asian minority ethnic groups, people living with mental health conditions or those living in deprived areas of Kirklees are at greater risk of poorer health outcomes.

The person-centred, non-clinical approach of this pilot aims to encourage more people to actively engage with health checks and make positive steps to improve their health.

Undertaking a health check can help spot the early signs of cardio-vascular disease, diabetes and strokes and a personalised plan will be developed to prevent escalation though education, support and interventions.

Clr Musarrat Khan, Cabinet member for health and social care, said: “This is an exciting, new initiative that will support our NHS by relieving some of the pressures on our GP surgeries.

“If signs of ill health can be identified earlier, preventative measures can be put in place to reduce the need for some people to visit their doctor or hospital.

“As a council, we strive to support people to live confident, healthier lifestyles. With the launch of this pilot, we have reframed how health checks are delivered, and using community venues, we can reach people who may not normally access the service in traditional ways. I urge anyone in those communities to get in touch.”

More information, including list of dates and venues available, can be found at www.kirkeeswellnessservice.co.uk

Health checks are being delivered by the council in partnership with the following GP surgeries:

             Viaduct Care Network

New Street and Netherton Group Practice
Meltham Road Surgery
Thornton Lodge Surgery
Fieldhead Surgery
Crosland Moor Group Practice
Newsome Surgery
Paddock & Longwood Family Practice
Lockwood Surgery

             Greenwood Network

The Grange Group Practice
Woodhouse Hill Surgery
Fartown Green Road Surgery
Croft Medical Centre
Marsh Surgery
Westbourne Surgery
Lindley Village Surgery
Lindley Group Practice

Birkby Health Centre
Surgery & Clifton Group
Nook Surgery