If you are aged 18+ and have a severe mental illness it is recommended that you attend an annual health check.

What happens at your health check

Have your blood pressure checked

Raised blood pressure can contribute to heart problems or increase the risk of having a stroke.

Be offered a blood test to check cholesterol and blood sugar levels

Raised cholesterol can increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke, and high blood sugar can mean you have diabetes.

Have your weight checked

Being overweight can increase your chance of developing diabetes, having a heart attack or stroke, and getting physical problems.

Talk about smoking, alcohol, non-prescription drugs, diet and exercise

Being overweight can increase your chance of developing diabetes, having a heart attack or stroke, and getting physical problems.

I’m ready to attend, what now?

You should receive an invitation to book an appointment for your health check. This might be a text, letter, phone call or email from your GP surgery.

Please make every effort to attend your appointment. Please do not worry if you have missed your appointment or cannot attend. We understand these situations happen.

Please get in touch with your surgery to arrange a new appointment.

I feel healthy, do I still need to attend?

It is recommended that you attend a health check each year, even if you are currently feeling fit and well. This helps monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels and also keeps your health records up to date.

If you choose not to attend, you may be contacted at a later date to discuss if there’s anything that will help support you to access a health check in the future.

I’m still unsure and need support to help me attend

If you need more information or require support that will help you attend, please let your GP surgery know.

There are many different community support options available, or the Physical Health Support Worker can refer you to have a chat with a dedicated Health Check Engagement Officer or peer worker.