The libraries are joining forces with national charity Blood Pressure UK and Southampton Primary Care to help people find out whether they could be living with high blood pressure without realising it.

High blood pressure rarely causes noticeable symptoms but can significantly increase the risk of serious health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, kidney disease, vascular dementia and premature death.

Residents can drop in for a free blood pressure and mini health checks at:

Central Library: Tuesday 8 September, between 10.30am – 2pm

Bitterne Library: Wednesday 9 September, between 10am – 2pm

Lordshill Library: Thursday 10 September, between 10am – 2pm

No appointment is needed and the checks only take a few minutes, making it easy for people to find out more about their health and take action if needed.

The events form part of Know Your Numbers! Week (Monday 7 to Sunday 13 September), the UK’s biggest blood pressure awareness campaign. This year’s theme, “You know your age, do you know your numbers?”, encourages people to make checking their blood pressure as routine as knowing other important aspects of their health.

High blood pressure can affect adults of any age, which is why Blood Pressure UK is encouraging people not to wait until they feel unwell before getting checked.

Debbie Chase, Director of Public Health at Southampton City Council said: “Many people with high blood pressure don’t know they have it, which is why we’re encouraging residents to take a few minutes to get checked during Know Your Numbers! Week.

“These free events at Southampton Libraries make it easy for people to learn more about their health, access advice and, if needed, take action early. Knowing your blood pressure could be one of the simplest and most important things you do for your health.”

For those who want to keep track of their blood pressure after the event, Southampton Libraries also offer a free Blood Pressure Monitor loan service. Library members can borrow a monitor to use at home, helping them regularly check their readings and support conversations with healthcare professionals.

The service is part of Southampton Libraries’ wider commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of local communities.