East Devon libraries launch blood pressure monitor loan scheme
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
Residents in East Devon can now keep a closer eye on their health by borrowing blood pressure monitors from their local library.
The initiative, launched this week as part of the One Devon partnership, is a joint effort by Devon County Council Public Health, Libraries Unlimited and NHS Devon Integrated Care Board. It coincides with Know Your Numbers! Week (8th - 14th September), the UK’s biggest campaign to raise awareness about blood pressure.
Libraries in Sidmouth, Honiton, Colyton, Exmouth, Seaton, Ottery St Mary and Budleigh Salterton are all taking part.
The service works just like borrowing a book: residents can take home a blood pressure kit for up to three weeks.
Each pack contains a monitor, clear instructions, a diary for recording results, and advice on what to do if readings are high.
Health experts say the scheme could play a vital role in preventing serious illness. High blood pressure rarely shows symptoms but is a leading risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.
Dr Kay Brennan, clinical advisor in long-term conditions for NHS Devon, said: “One in three adults in the UK have raised blood pressure but many don’t realise it. In Devon, nine per cent of adults may have undiagnosed high blood pressure. The only way to find out is through a check.”
One resident who took part in an earlier pilot scheme discovered dangerously high readings and was able to take action. Iain Harris, 54, described the result as a “wake-up call” that led him to change his lifestyle and seek medical advice.
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, cabinet member for public health, communities and libraries, praised the project, saying libraries are “the perfect places to provide this service” because of their role as welcoming community hubs, already home to everything from Lego clubs to warm spaces.
The scheme’s goal is to make health checks more accessible, encourage residents to share results with their GP, and ultimately help more people in Devon live healthier, longer lives.
( Photo: Pixabay Library 📸 )