Staff at Colchester City Council’s household waste and recycling depot have had their blood pressure and general health checked at work thanks to a drive by the local NHS to identify people with undiagnosed hypertension.
The event came at the end of a week-long focus by Colchester City Council on the health and wellbeing of its staff.
The checks were carried out on the Open Road SOS Bus using a SiSU machine to measure not only blood pressure, but heart rate, body composition and body mass index as well.
Staff at the Shrub End depot were only too keen to hop on board.
Mike Watkins said: “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.”
Darren Hammett said: “I haven’t had my blood pressure checked in a while, so I’ve come along today to find out what it is.”
Kevin Cook said: “I’d recommend other big workplaces think about doing this. It’s important to look after your health.”
Martyn Peck said: “I’ve come on board for reassurance about my health. It’s a really good idea to do this as it’s important to catch any health problems early.”
Dr Hasan Chowhan, Senior Partner at Creffield Medical Group, 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.”
NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board played a key role in planning the event.
Nerinda Evans, Director of Strategic Programmes at NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated 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.”
People can get their blood pressure tested at most high street pharmacies. Anyone between the ages of 40 and 74 is entitled to a free NHS health check every 5 years, unless they are already being treated for a long-term condition and have routine health tests. They can ask their GP practice for more information.
The Open Road SOS Bus is commissioned by Essex County Council and delivers workplace health checks as a key part of its services.
Stacey Banner, Welfare and Volunteer Manager for the bus said: “The Open Road SOS Bus is committed to enhancing community health throughout Essex by providing essential services such as stroke prevention and blood pressure management. We are honoured to contribute to workplace health initiatives in Colchester and Tendring, promoting the wellbeing of local residents.
“Early detection is crucial in preventing serious health conditions. We are dedicated to ensuring that all individuals have access to fundamental healthcare services.”
Councillor John Spence, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Adult Social Care, Public Health and Integration at Essex County Council said: “Healthy workforces are happy and competitive workforces. The SiSU Health Stations are a great initiative and another step forward for improving public health in Essex.
“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. It is helping to reduce health inequalities and promoting early prevention."
Staff also heard about the new Urgent Care Dental Service, which provides NHS treatment in 1-7 days. Problems such as toothache, infections, bleeding gums and broken fillings, crowns or bridges are among those which can be treated by the service. Appointments are available by contacting NHS 111.
Cllr Julie Young, Deputy Leader of Colchester City Council and Portfolio Holder 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.”
Anyone who would like to arrange a workplace health check, mental health support or other wellbeing support for their staff should contact: essex.workingwell@nhs.net.
Page last reviewed: 16 June 2025