A petition calling for the mobile breast screening service to be reinstated in Warminster has been launched.
David Reeves, from the Warminster Health and Wellbeing Forum, hopes that demonstrating public support could help restore the service to the town. The mobile unit was previously based in Morrisons car park but was recently withdrawn.
“Like many, I believe it’s crucial to ensure that every woman has easy and equitable access to breast screening services,” said David.
“Breast screening is an essential healthcare service that has been proven to save lives by detecting cancer early. The statistics are compelling – according to Cancer Research UK, breast cancer survival rates are now over 85% largely due to early detection through screening. However, without straightforward and convenient access, women in Warminster are potentially being denied this life-saving opportunity.”
It is too late for the unit to be reinstated for this year’s screening programme, and residents now have to travel to nearby towns such as Westbury for their appointments.
This has sparked concern throughout the community that Warminster women may now struggle to access their appointments. Councillor Liz Lee raised the issue in a recent town council meeting and encouraged fellow councillors to support her in campaigning for its reinstatement in Warminster. An estimated 2,500 to 3,000 women in the Warminster area qualify for the screening.
Councillors will meet with members of the Breast Screening Services Team to discuss the issue further on Tuesday 21st October.
“By signing this petition, you will help send a strong message to the authorities that we need and deserve access to vital healthcare services that could save lives,” said David.
To access the petition, visit https://c.org/spb2MNK6T6
Pictured: Cllr Liz Lee, who campaigned for the service to be reinstated in the town, at the previous site of the mobile breast screening unit
