Lewisham residents gathered in Deptford last week for the second in a series of free community sessions designed to raise awareness about high blood pressure and how to manage it. The “Understanding High Blood Pressure” session, held on 21st January 2026 at Wavelengths Leisure Centre, built on the success of the first session in Forest Hill and continued the conversation about heart health and prevention.
The Deptford event offered practical, hands-on support. Residents could check their blood pressure, learn how to track it at home and find out what healthy readings look like. There were also discussions about everyday changes, from eating well and staying active to managing stress, that can make a big difference.
Healthcare professionals were on hand to answer questions and share advice, creating an open and friendly space for people to learn and connect.
Dr Aaminah Verity, GP and Health Equity Lead in Lewisham said “It was a really positive event with brilliant engagement from local residents. There were thoughtful questions and lots of open discussion, which showed how keen people are to understand more about high blood pressure and why it matters for long-term health. It was also fantastic to see one of our Health Equity Teams, Red Ribbon and Dr Lucy Baxter presenting their Healthy Hearts project, which will provide ongoing, practical support for people in Deptford. It really highlighted what’s possible when communities and healthcare work together.”
Feedback from attendees was positive, with comments highlighting how informative and well-organised the session was. Many said they left feeling more confident about managing their blood pressure.
A third event is planned in the coming months, so keep an eye out for details. Taking simple steps like regular monitoring, staying active and eating a balanced diet can help reduce risks. Residents can also speak to their GP or visit the NHS website for further support.