It can save lives and it should be within everyone’s reach. Last year we focused on increasing cervical screening to help support earlier diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Cervical screening alone could prevent up to 75% of cervical cancer cases, but it relies on women feeling supported, informed and able to attend their appointments.

That’s why we worked with The Foundry Primary Care Network - a group of eight GP surgeries in north Sheffield. Its cervical screening rates are among the lowest in England: just 47%, compared with 69% nationally.

In June 2025 we piloted a women’s health event at Firvale Community Hub, creating a safe, trusted space for women to learn, ask questions and take action. This event was designed to help women book their cervical screening appointment on the day, knowing that they’ll see the same friendly team at their actual appointment.

We worked sensitively to overcome barriers such as generational trauma, experiences of female genital mutilation and cultural expectations. The event also provided other, practical guidance such as how to check their breasts through clothed demonstrations.

By meeting women where they were — emotionally, culturally and geographically — we helped remove some of the fear and stigma that had prevented many from attending screening.

Although a key measure of success was the number of screening appointments booked and attended, the impact was much deeper. The event opened-up conversations about women’s health that had often been closed for years. It encouraged self‑care, built trust in NHS services and helped women to feel seen, heard and supported.

We’ll be building on this work in 2026.