Waste depot staff given free health checks as part of initiative in Colchester
STAFF at a waste and recycling depot in Colchester have received free health checks as part of a workplace wellbeing initiative.
The checks were conducted at the Shrub End depot by the NHS on the Open Road SOS Bus using a SiSU machine.
This initiative identified staff with possible undiagnosed hypertension and formed part of Colchester Council's week-long focus on the health and wellbeing of its staff.
The SiSU machine measured not only blood pressure, but also heart rate, body composition, and body mass index.
Enthusiastic depot employees hopped aboard the bus for their checks.
Mike Watkins, one of the staff members, expressed his gratitude, saying: "It makes us feel valued.
"I'm keen to find out about my blood pressure and learn what to do about it if it's not where it should be."
Martyn Peck (Image: Suffolk and North East Essex ICB)
Worker Darren Hammett added: "I haven't had my blood pressure checked in a while, so I've come along today to find out what it is."
The initiative also received positive feedback from staff, including Kevin Cook, who recommended other large workplaces to adopt similar practices.
He said: "It's important to look after your health."
Similarly, Martyn Peck expressed his desire for reassurance about his health and praised the initiative for aiding the early detection of health problems.
Dr. Hasan Chowhan, senior partner at Creffield Medical Group, outlined the significance of the initiative.
He said: "High blood pressure is a silent killer.
"Many people don't realise they have the condition until they have a heart attack or stroke.
"The good news is that it's possible to get it under control. For some that may mean making a few lifestyle changes; others will need to take medications as well.
"These simple steps could save your life.
"They could also help save your quality of life as both strokes and heart attacks can leave people with long-term disabilities."
The initiative was planned with the indispensable support of the NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board.
Nerinda Evans, director of strategic programmes at the care board, said: "We helped to put on this event because we saw it as a great opportunity to talk to people directly about the dangers of undiagnosed high blood pressure.
"Prevention is the key thing here. We are actively trying to support people before they have a heart attack or stroke.
"We hope everyone at Colchester Recycling Centre will tell their friends and family about the importance of checking your blood pressure to help spread this important message.'
The Open Road SOS Bus, commissioned by Essex County Council, plays a vital role in delivering workplace health checks, acting as a key aspect of its services.
Stacey Banner, welfare and volunteer manager for the bus, said: "Early detection is crucial in preventing serious health conditions.
"We are dedicated to ensuring that all individuals have access to fundamental healthcare services."
This event also provided information about the new urgent care dental service, offering NHS treatment in one to seven days for problems like toothache, infections, and broken fillings.
John Spence, councillor responsible for children's services, adult social care, public health and integration at Essex County Council, said: "Healthy workforces are happy and competitive workforces.
"By taking the stations directly to local people, we are making health checks accessible and helping residents, especially those in manual jobs, take control of their health."
The council's proactive approach extends beyond health checks, offering mental health support and other wellbeing aids for staff.
Julie Young, deputy leader of Colchester Council and councillor responsible for housing, said: "We're proud to support initiatives that put our staff's wellbeing first.
"The health checks at the household waste and recycling depot are a simple but powerful reminder that prevention saves lives.
"This is exactly the kind of proactive approach we want to see more of across our workplaces – making it easier for people to take control of their health and stay well."
People wanting workplace health checks, mental health support, or other staff wellbeing support can contact: essex.workingwell@nhs.net.
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