In September 2024 the Isle of Wight Council launched its blood pressure monitor loan scheme. High blood pressure puts extra strain on your heart, checking your blood pressure is a positive step you can take. Residents could visit one of the council libraries and borrow a blood pressure monitor for free.
The scheme has gone so well that the council is now also making this service available in East Cowes Library, in addition to six other libraries which are,
- Lord Louis Library, Newport
- Cowes Library
- Ventnor Library
- Sandown Library
- Ryde Library
- Freshwater Library
There have been nearly 80 loans to date, allowing people to help monitor their blood pressure in the comfort of their own home. Should individuals have any concerns they should consult/ access appropriate help and support from a medical professional.
Teams from within the libraries have given some great feedback on the scheme so far.
Staff at Ventnor Library said: “Our customers think the service is wonderful and they can’t believe that it’s free! When they need to monitor their blood pressure, they just go to the library and borrow one. No wait and no fuss.”
Ryde Library staff said “Customers are delighted by this new service available from the library. They’re really grateful to be able to borrow a blood pressure monitor for free. It’s so easy to use at their leisure in the comfort of their own homes.”
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health commented ‘’We’re really pleased with the response and use of the blood pressure monitor scheme so far. February is Heart Month, and we want to encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of this amazing offer.’’
Simon Bryant, Director of Public Health for the Isle of Wight added ‘’we are really pleased at how well the blood pressure monitor loan scheme has been received by residents on the Island. We know that high blood pressure is a major cause of heart disease but often has no symptoms. Around 1 in 4 people will have high blood pressure without knowing it. Knowing your blood pressure means being able to make the lifestyle changes and or get the help needed to bring blood pressure down to a healthy level.
The free to loan monitors are available to Island residents over the age of 18 years old who hold a valid library membership. If you are not a member of your local library it takes just a few minutes on arrival, just bring along a photo ID.
Residents can also visit their local pharmacy and enquire about a free blood pressure check.
Contact Information
Marie Woodward
Isle of Wight Council
01983821000
marie.woodward@iow.gov.uk
