Women will soon have greater access to life-saving breast screening services with the launch of a new facility in Plymouth.
West Devon & East Cornwall Breast Screening Service Key Takeaways:
- New Screening Centre for Accessibility – A new breast screening facility at Merchant House, Plymouth, will open on 17 February 2025, improving accessibility for women in West Devon and East Cornwall.
- Encouraging Participation – Breast screening prevents an estimated 1,300 deaths annually in the UK, yet uptake remains below capacity. The new site aims to make attendance easier and increase participation.
- Booking and Alternative Options – Women can still use the mobile unit or University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust service if preferred. Those who have missed an invitation can book by calling 01752 431652.
The West Devon and East Cornwall Breast Screening Service (Facebook Link) has confirmed that a new site at Merchant House on Notte Street will begin operations on 17 February 2025.
Located on a direct bus route, the new centre aims to improve accessibility for those invited to routine screening as part of the national programme for women aged 50 to 71, as well as individuals on a breast surveillance programme.
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The service, which will operate Monday to Friday, is part of an ongoing effort to boost participation in breast screening. Screening Breast Care Nurse Kayleigh Davenport emphasised the importance of early detection.
“Breast screening prevents an estimated 1,300 deaths from breast cancer each year in the UK,”
she said.
“It is free, takes only a few minutes, and could save your life. We strongly encourage everyone to attend when invited.”
Despite the proven benefits of screening, uptake remains below capacity. It is hoped that additional locations, such as the new Merchant House site, will make it easier for more women to attend their appointments.
Those who prefer to visit the mobile unit or the existing service at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust will still have the option to do so.
Anyone who has missed an invitation or has questions about screening can contact the service’s administrative team on 01752 431652.
