Chichester District leisure centres offering blood pressure checks during Know Your Numbers Week

Two Chichester District leisure centres are encouraging people to get their blood pressure checked as part of Know Your Numbers Week, the UK's biggest blood pressure testing and awareness event, which takes place between the 7th and 13th of September.

 Know Your Numbers Week, which forms part of Blood Pressure Awareness Week, is organised by the charity Blood Pressure UK, and this year Westgate Leisure Centre and The Grange Community Leisure Centre offering free drop-in sessions for people who want to get checked.

If you would like to know your numbers, please visit:

• Westgate Leisure Centre – 9th September – 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 4pm.

• The Grange Community Leisure Centre – 10th September - 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 4pm.

To help ensure an accurate reading, participants are advised to stay well hydrated on the day of the test and wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the upper arm. Anyone who has had a mastectomy, is pregnant, or has any medical condition that could affect their reading should inform the member of staff carrying out the test.

Although everyone can benefit from knowing their blood pressure, it is particularly important for adults aged 40 and over, who should aim to have theirs checked at least once a year.

Richard Minton, General Manager for Leisure Solutions Community Trust, which operates the centres in partnership with Serco Leisure, said:

“"High blood pressure is often called the ‘silent killer’ because it can have no symptoms, so regular checks are really important. By offering free blood pressure checks at our centres, we're making it easier for local people to keep on top of their health. I would encourage anyone who hasn't had their blood pressure checked recently to take advantage of this free service. It only takes a few minutes and could make a real difference to your long-term health and wellbeing."

As a general guide, an ideal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or above is usually considered high and should be discussed with a healthcare professional. People who receive elevated readings will be advised on appropriate next steps, including speaking to their GP or healthcare professional.

For more information about Know Your Numbers Week and local testing sessions, visit: https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/know-your-numbers/know-your-numbers-week/ Westgate Leisure Centre, The Grange Community & Leisure Centre and Bourne Leisure Centre are operated by Leisure Solutions Community Trust in partnership with Serco Leisure on behalf of Chichester District Council.