We’re thrilled to celebrate a fantastic result for the recent breast screening campaign in Partington.
Thanks to teamwork between the TLCO Neighbourhood Programme, local residents, and community services, the uptake for breast screenings has soared from just 34% in 2021 to an impressive high of 68% this time around.
This incredible achievement was helped by:
- Bringing the Screening Van Back to Town: The convenience of having the screening van located at Partington Health Centre made a big difference. It prevented the need for long trips to Trafford General.
- A Fun and Local Campaign: The Neighbourhood Programme developed a campaign that chimed with Partington residents. Engaging messages were shared through local groups, churches, residents’ associations, and TLCO community services. Vibrant campaign posters were displayed daily on sandwich boards at the shopping centre and community cafe.
- Social Media Buzz: Residents shared the campaign across social media. Facebook was buzzing with posts and stories encouraging women to take advantage of the service.
- Regular Updates and Community Engagement: Berni Tomlinson, the Neighbourhood Community Engagement Coordinator organised short meetings to keep everyone informed and equip them with clear messages to share with others. The GM Screening team engaged local practices and businesses amongst others.
Adrian Smith, TLCO Neighbourhood Lead, said, “This is a brilliant result and really shows what we can do when community and services come together. A huge thank you to the Greater Manchester Breast Screening Team, TLCO staff and everyone in Partington.”
The project is part of the Through The Front Door cancer awareness project funded through Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance.
Helen, Partington resident
Helen is in her fifties and had never gone for breast screening. A friend had told her it was painful and uncomfortable. Helen was talking about the Partington campaign posters with a group of friends, after they were shared by the local Reverend. The Reverend had attended a meeting with other local people that was organised by TLCO Neighbourhood Programme team.
After revealing that she had never been for her breast screen, another friend urged her to go, telling her about her own experience of finding something through screening. Helen said that she started thinking about her granddaughter and wanting to be around for her as long as possible. She thought to herself, “Well it’s on my doorstep now. There really is no excuse not to go”.
Helen went and said it was a fantastic experience with friendly and thoughtful staff. It was barely even uncomfortable. She said, “I can’t believe I let someone else’s experience stop me from going.”
