INVITATIONs have been sent, or will shortly be dispatched, to Thurrock residents offering invitations for their free NHS Health Check – a quick and simple midlife health check designed to help people stay healthy for longer. 

NHS Health Checks are available to everyone aged 40-74 who does not already have a pre-existing cardiovascular condition. Over the next five years, the programme will be rolled out across Thurrock to make sure every eligible resident is invited. 

Invitations will be sent automatically by letter, text or email, so there's nothing you need to do until you receive yours. 

Each Health Check takes 20-30 minutes and includes:  

• a blood pressure check  
• a simple blood test for cholesterol (and sometimes blood sugar)  
• height and weight measurements  
• a conversation about lifestyle and family history  

The results help identify early signs of serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, and dementia risk – even if people feel well and have no symptoms.  

Cllr Mark Hooper, Cabinet Member for Health and Well-being said: "This campaign is about supporting people in Thurrock aged 40-74 to take control of their health. An NHS Health Check is a quick, free way to understand your risks and get advice that's personal to you. By attending when invited, you're not only investing in a healthier you – you're also helping us, as a community, reduce preventable illness and build a healthier Thurrock together." 

Dr Chris Olukanni, a local GP and Clinical Director for Tilbury Chadwell PCN in Thurrock, added: "We see far too often the impact of conditions like heart disease, stroke and diabetes when they are picked up too late. The NHS Health Check gives us the chance to spot risks early and work with you to reduce them before they become serious. For people aged 40 to 74, it's one of the simplest and most effective things you can do for your health."  

"When your invitation arrives, please book your appointment — it's quick, it's free, it could add years to your life. It could be one of the most important appointments you ever attend."  

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Reaching everyone  

The campaign will run for the next five years to make sure every eligible resident is invited. Extra effort will be made to reach people who are less likely to attend, including:  

• men aged 40–59  
• people who feel well and rarely see their GP  
• residents in more disadvantaged areas  
• smokers and those with lifestyle risks such as poor diet or low activity  
• other high risks groups which appear to have low uptake over the course of the programme  

By focusing on these groups, the programme aims to reduce health inequalities and support those at greatest risk.  

What residents need to do  

When your invitation arrives, don't ignore it. Please book your appointment. It's quick. It's free. It could add years to your life. – book your free NHS Health Check straight away.  

• No need to apply – you will be contacted directly.  
• Invites will come by letter, text, or email.  
• Appointments will usually take place at your local delivery hub or your GP surgery.  

This is your chance to take a simple, proactive step to protect your health for the future.  

For more information, visit Thurrock Council's Health checks and screening page.