Cervical Screening: Why It Matters

At Right at Home Calderdale, caring for others is at the heart of everything we do. As a home care provider supporting people across our community, we also recognise the importance of looking after our own health and wellbeing. Cervical Screening Awareness Week is an important opportunity to highlight why regular cervical screening saves lives and why staying up to date with appointments matters.

What is cervical screening?

Cervical screening (sometimes called a smear test) is a simple and effective way to help prevent cervical cancer. The screening checks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause changes to cervical cells. Detecting these changes early means they can be monitored or treated before cancer develops.

Cervical screening is not a test for cancer — it is a preventive health check designed to stop cancer from developing in the first place.

Why cervical screening is so important

Cervical cancer is largely preventable, yet it still affects thousands of women each year in the UK. Regular screening significantly reduces the risk by identifying potential issues early, often before symptoms appear.

Many people delay or miss appointments due to busy schedules, anxiety, or the belief that screening isn’t necessary if they feel well. However, cervical cell changes rarely cause symptoms in the early stages, which is why routine screening is so vital.

Supporting women in care — and our care team

As a home care company, we support many women in our community, including clients, family members, and our own care professionals. Our team is predominantly female, and we understand the challenges of balancing work, caring responsibilities, and personal health.

Cervical Screening Awareness Week is a reminder that taking time for your own health is not selfish — it is essential. Looking after yourself enables you to continue supporting others safely and confidently.

When should you attend cervical screening?

In England, cervical screening is offered by the NHS:

• Every 3 years for those aged 25–49

• Every 5 years for those aged 50–64

If you’re eligible and overdue, booking an appointment with your GP practice could make a life-saving difference.

You can find more information and check how to book your appointment via the NHS website Cervical Screening NHS

A shared responsibility for health

At Right at Home Calderdale, we believe prevention, awareness, and early intervention are key to long-term wellbeing. By promoting cervical screening awareness, we hope to encourage open conversations, reduce stigma, and support women to prioritise their health — whether they are receiving care or providing it.

This Cervical Screening Awareness Week, we encourage everyone eligible to check their screening status, attend appointments when invited, and speak to a healthcare professional if they have any concerns.

Your health matters — today and for the future.