A mobile cervical screening unit is visiting multiple locations across Birmingham and Solihull to make cancer prevention services more accessible to women. The initiative aims to increase screening uptake by bringing essential checks directly into local neighbourhoods.
The unit, available to women registered with any GP in the region, operates from 9.30am to 3.30pm at community sites including Wing Yip Supermarket in Nechells, Highgate Medical Centre in Sparkbrook, and the Saheli Hub in Balsall Heath. Screening sessions will continue throughout January and February.
Launched as a pilot in December 2025, around 60 women have already benefited from the service. The rollout coincides with Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, running from January 19 to 25.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nurse and Clinical & Quality Officer at NHS Birmingham, Black Country and Solihull, said: “By taking cervical screening directly into neighbourhoods, we are making access simpler, more flexible, and more inclusive. This reflects the ambitions of the national 10-Year Health Plan, focusing on prevention and early detection.”
Cervical screening is offered every five years to women aged 25–64. The test checks the health of cervical cells and helps prevent cancer by identifying early changes that can be monitored or treated.
As part of the wider programme, Sparkbrook Children’s Zone hosts the unit every Thursday outside Highgate Medical Centre. Invitations for screening are sent via the NHS App, with letters issued only if the app is unavailable or unused. Negative results are also communicated through the app, helping women stay informed about their health.
