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We know that many many people aren't aware that they may have high blood pressure which could cause a heart attack or a stroke. Read our analysis about a new idea that has been helping people in Medway to mange their own blood pressure.
We've analysed the work that's been done in Gillingham to help people like Jenny to realise that they have high blood pressure and understand what they need to do about it.
When Jenny met the Hypertension Heroes, her blood pressure reading was very high. The volunteer Hypertension Heroes suggested that Jenny contact NHS 111 right away, which she did. Jenny was taken by an ambulance and was given medication to reduce her blood pressure, something she never knew she needed. Since taking the medication, Jenny has already seen a significant improvement in her blood pressure.
Jenny also told us about how she has changed her lifestyle since meeting the Heroes, such as exercising more and trying to stay stress free. Hypertension Heroes also signposted Jenny to Kent Association for the Blind to support her independence in dealing with a new visual impairment. She told us this too has been invaluable and she felt confident that her health is improving as a result.
You have made a real difference to my life. I did not realise I had dangerously high blood pressure at all. If I hadn’t met the Hypertension Heroes, I wouldn’t have known until it was too late.
Jenny, Gillingham resident
What's this all about?
The British Heart Foundation and listening experts EK360, have been working together with many passionate community organisations and charities to reach people in Gillingham who wouldn't normally go to their GP.
They wanted to give people the confidence to take their own blood pressure readings and understand why it's so important to look after your blood pressure.
Has it worked?
In short, yes! In six months:
320 people in Gillingham were shown how to do their own blood pressure reading
10 volunteers became trained Hypertension Heroes
A total of £160,358.22 worth of social value has been generated
For every £1 invested in this project, it has generated £9.43 worth of social value
Read our full Social Return on Investment analysis here.
You can also read our analysis of the same work that's taken place in Folkestone & Gravesend below.
Healthwatch Kent SORI summary for Medway Hypertension Heroes
