One Year On: Blood Pressure Monitor Loan Scheme

This September marks one year since the Isle of Wight Council launched its free blood pressure monitor loan scheme — and what better time to celebrate its success than during Know Your Numbers Week, 8-14 September.

High blood pressure often has no symptoms but can lead to serious health issues like heart attacks and strokes. That’s why knowing your numbers is so important — and the council’s blood pressure loan scheme makes it easier than ever.

Island residents can borrow a blood pressure monitor for free from any of the following libraries:

Lord Louis Library, Newport

Cowes Library

Ventnor Library

Sandown Library

Ryde Library

Freshwater Library

East Cowes Library 

Since its launch in September 2024, the scheme has seen 240 loans, helping people monitor their blood pressure from the comfort of their own homes. If residents have any concerns, they are encouraged to seek advice from a medical professional.

Library staff have shared glowing feedback:

Ventnor Library: “Our customers think the service is wonderful and they can’t believe that it’s free!”

Ryde Library: “Customers are delighted. It’s so easy to use at their leisure in the comfort of their own homes.”

 Councillor Clare Mosdell, Chair of the Adult Social Care and Public Health Committee, said: “We’re thrilled with the response to the scheme. Know Your Numbers Week is the perfect time to remind everyone how simple it is to take control of your health. High blood pressure is a major cause of heart disease and often goes unnoticed. Knowing your blood pressure means you can take steps to reduce it and protect your health.”

Around 1 in 4 people will have high blood pressure without knowing it. Knowing your blood pressure means being able to make the lifestyle changes and or get the help needed to bring blood pressure down to a healthy level.

Monitors are available to residents aged 18+ with a valid library membership. Not a member? Signing up is quick and easy — just bring photo ID to your local library.

You can also visit your local pharmacy to ask about a free blood pressure check.