Walsall health teams join forces to tackle low breast screening rates
The aim is to break down barriers, dispel myths and build confidence
Health professionals across Walsall have joined forces to drive up breast screening rates and encourage early detection, with a major community-focused awareness campaign making a real impact.
At the heart of the initiative is Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Cancer Outreach Team, which has been running breast awareness sessions in venues across the borough, from women’s and faith groups to workplaces and GP surgeries.
The aim is to break down barriers, dispel myths and build confidence around breast health and the importance of screening.
The Trust has partnered with Walsall Council’s Public Health Team and the Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) to deliver the campaign.
Together, they developed a support package for GPs, nurses, community leaders and volunteers, including posters, social media content and guidance materials to spread clear and supportive messages about screening.
"we want people to feel confident, informed and supported"
Joanne Barlow, Service Lead for Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Cancer Outreach Team, said: “We’ve seen first hand how important it is to meet people in their own communities.
“When we talk about breast health in familiar settings, people feel more comfortable asking questions and engaging with the information.
"Our outreach work is year-round. We’re committed to making cancer screening part of everyday conversations. Whether it’s breast, bowel or vague symptoms, we want people to feel confident, informed and supported in making decisions about their health.”
"Honest conversations"
Dr Nadia Inglis, Director of Public Health at Walsall Council, praised the collaboration: “We know that when women feel heard, supported and informed, they’re more confident about their health.
"That’s why we’re working together across Walsall to make breast screening and health information more accessible and reassuring.
“By joining forces across teams and connecting with our communities, we’re helping women feel in control of their wellbeing, raising awareness of screening services and what they are there for, and encouraging everyone to check their breasts regularly.
"It’s about honest conversations, meeting people where they are and making health feel more personal and empowering.”
"I didn’t realise how easy it was to check myself"
One participant from Aaina Community Hub shared how the sessions have made a difference: “I didn’t realise how easy it was to check myself or how important it is to go for screening. I learnt about dimpling in the breast which I didn’t know. The session gave me confidence, and I’ve already spoken to my friends about it.”
Residents across Walsall are being encouraged to check their breasts or chest regularly and become familiar with what’s normal for them.
The area to check extends from the collarbone to under the armpit, as breast cancer can develop in any part of this region.
Anyone who notices unusual changes that persist for more than a week is urged to contact their GP for advice and support.