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Suffolk residents urged to take up free NHS Health Checks

News

Suffolk adults aged 40-74 without pre-existing health conditions are being encouraged to take advantage of free NHS Health Checks. The programme aims to spot signs of serious conditions earlier and help people live healthier lives.

Why it matters: These checks can be lifesaving by identifying increased risks of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and dementia before they develop.

The big picture: Suffolk GP Federation has been awarded a contract to deliver over 23,000 NHS Health Checks annually in the county. Additionally, Suffolk County Council has received government funding to provide 2,000 extra checks in workplaces by March 2025.

Councillor Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Protection, having his health check
Councillor Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Protection, having his health checkSuffolk County Council

What they're saying: Cllr Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection at Suffolk County Council, said:

"NHS Health Checks are an important tool in spotting health conditions early and helping people become more aware of what they can do to improve their health and wellbeing in the future. Prevention is always better than cure and I encourage residents who are invited for a free health check to make an appointment as soon as possible."

Julie Smith, Managing Director at Suffolk GP Federation, added:

"We are delighted to take on the contract for delivering NHS Health Checks in Suffolk on behalf of Suffolk County Council.

"Not only will we be inviting eligible people to attend a Health Check at their local GP Practice or pharmacy, we will also be visiting local communities so more people can take advantage of the checks."

What's next: Eligible residents will receive a text message inviting them to book a Health Check appointment. The text will include a link to a short questionnaire where they can:

  • Choose their preferred location (GP practice or local pharmacy)

  • Select convenient days and times for the appointment

  • Indicate any other preferences

The Suffolk GP Federation will also conduct outreach in local communities to increase accessibility.

The bottom line: These free health checks allow selected residents to manage their health and potentially prevent serious conditions proactively. However, some will raise questions about how these checks will be delivered by GPs who are already overstretched and the potential impact they could have on appointment availability.

To find out more: For more information about the Suffolk NHS Health Check Service, visit www.suffolkfed.org.uk/healthcare-services/nhs-health-checks/.

Police reveal Billy McNicholl died from head injuries and a single stab wound in an 'isolated' attack

News

A post-mortem has revealed that William "Billy" McNicholl, 63, died from head injuries and a single stab wound at his Ipswich home. Police continue to appeal for witnesses as the murder investigation enters its second week.

The details: Officers discovered McNicholl's body at his home on Hawthorn Drive shortly before 18:00 on New Years Day:

  • Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team is leading the inquiry

  • A police cordon remains in place near the junction with Marigold Avenue

  • Investigators are particularly interested in any suspicious activity between 24 December and 1 January

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl, 63, died from head injuries and a single stab wound at his Ipswich homeAmy Clarke

What they're saying: Detective Superintendent Mike Brown of the Joint Major Investigations Team said: “We continue to appeal for anyone with any information to come forward while the murder inquiry into the death of Billy continues.

“Billy’s family are being supported by specially trained officers through what is an extremely distressing time for them.

“A large number of officers and staff have already been involved in the investigation, with searches, house-to-house and CCTV enquiries taking place. Residents should expect to see a continued increased police presence over the coming days.

“We are exploring all and any lines of enquiry and currently believe this to be an isolated incident and I would urge anyone with any information, no matter how small you think it may be, to get in touch with police.”

How to help:

  • Contact police on 101 quoting reference 37/162/25

  • Submit information via the Major Incident Public Reporting Portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/363719P01-PO1

  • Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

  • Use Crimestoppers' online form at crimestoppers-uk.org

The bottom line: While police believe this is an isolated incident, they are conducting extensive searches, house-to-house inquiries and CCTV analysis. Residents should expect to see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days.

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