ExtraCare takes Healthcare to the High Street

Older people across the Midlands could benefit from affordable high street health checks as The ExtraCare Charitable Trust launches a specialist health screening service in its Birmingham Charity shops later this month.

The scheme, being piloted in ExtraCare’s King’s Heath and Castle Bromwich charity shops will offer passing customers free blood pressure checks, proactive health advice and, for a minimum charge, blood sugar and cholesterol tests.

Run by qualified nurses, it’s hoped the initiative will raise health awareness, particularly amongst the 50% of over-55s who regularly visit ExtraCare’s shops. The scheme will, however, be open to all shoppers irrespective of age.

The Charity took its health awareness campaign to the streets following the success of its award-winning Well-being service at its year-old New Oscott Retirement Village in Erdington. 222 village residents who took part in screening showed a 15.2% improvement in their health after a Well-being check, preventative action and a follow up assessment.

Charity Shops Managing Director, Alison Whittingham, comments: “Health screening and promotion is an important part of the service we provide for older people and we want to bring a bit of our expertise into the wider community.

“Although screening is already available on the high street through the main retailers, it’s not always at a cost that is affordable, especially for older people who may be in need and unaware of their poor health. Our shops provide an informal atmosphere where visitors can take advantage of free advice and health screening at a maximum cost of only £3.00

“The atmosphere is informal and friendly and whilst all checks are confidential we believe a welcoming environment will encourage shoppers to take part. If the scheme is successful we will spread it across our 60 shops in the Midlands and North West.”

The two participating shops are offering checks from 9am to 5pm on the following dates: 12th April, 10th May and 14th June at 17 Timberley Lane, Castle Bromwich, Birmingham, B34 7ED. 14th April, 12th May and 9th June at 28 Alcester Road South, King’s Heath, Birmingham, B14 7PU.