On Thursday 25th September, MSDP proudly hosted our Free Heart Health Check Day in partnership with Soroptimist International Liverpool and the Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital. As one of Soroptimist International Liverpool’s Charities of the Year, we’re thrilled to be working together to bring vital health opportunities directly to our Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.
The event saw an incredible 47 people take part in voluntary heart health checks, carried out by trained health professionals. Each participant had their blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol, and BMI measured – key indicators that help detect early signs of heart disease, stroke risk, and other underlying conditions.
A Life-Saving Moment
During the day, our team’s quick response made a real difference when one attendee showed signs of a suspected stroke. A BSL999 call was made, and the person was promptly taken to A&E for treatment. This powerful moment highlighted the importance of accessible health services and rapid action when it matters most.
Supporting the Community’s Health
The results from the event showed how valuable these checks can be:
- 40% of participants were advised to follow up with their GP for further investigation.
- Many received practical advice on healthy eating, exercise and heart disease prevention.
- A special community presentation also focused on how small lifestyle changes can make a big difference to long-term heart health.
Accessibility and Inclusion at the Heart
Accessibility was at the core of the day’s success. With 4 BSL interpreters on site – 2 provided through Access to Work and 2 generously funded by Soroptimist International Liverpool – all attendees could communicate freely and confidently. Those who attended included Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, clients with their support workers, and even people travelling from outside the Liverpool area to take part.
Thank You
We’d like to extend a huge thank you to Soroptimist International Liverpool, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, and our amazing interpreters, volunteers, and staff for their incredible support. Most of all, thank you to everyone who came along to take proactive steps for their health.
By working together, we’re not only improving awareness – we’re helping to save lives.
