Overview

Cervical screening saves lives, yet many people delay or miss their appointments due to busy schedules, anxiety, or difficulty accessing services. Recognising this, Southport & Formby Primary Care Network (PCN) launched a cervical screening pilot as part of the 7 Day GP Service—offering flexible, out-of-hours appointments to make it easier for people to attend.

In just nine weeks, the initiative has empowered 161 people across Southport and Formby to book their smear test, ensuring more people get the vital screening they need, when they need it.

The pilot is led and guided by Dr Octavia Stevens, GP Cancer Lead at Southport and Formby PCN.   

The Challenge

Nationally, cervical screening uptake has been declining, with many people citing work commitments, childcare responsibilities, or fear of the procedure as barriers. Local data showed that many people in Southport and Formby were overdue their screenings, increasing their risk of undetected cervical abnormalities.

The Solution

To accelerate action and improve access, Southport & Formby Health integrated cervical screening appointments into the 7 Day GP service. This meant:
Evening & weekend appointments—giving people more choice on when to attend
A welcoming, supportive environment—with trained clinicians to address concerns
Proactive patient engagement—targeted outreach encouraged women to book.

The Impact

The response was very positive. In just nine weeks:

• 161 people booked their cervical screening through the 7 Day GP service.
• Many reported they felt more comfortable attending due to the flexible and accessible nature of the service.
• Increased uptake means more opportunities for early detection of abnormalities, ultimately saving lives.
• We focus on inclusivity by removing labels and encourage anyone with a cervix to attend screening.

Mel Coy, Cancer Care Coordinator said: “Our summer cervical screening pilot with the Living Well Bus showed that accessibility, appeared to be the main barrier—a member of the public attended for screening after 20 years. The 7-Day GP service continues to offer convenient screening, and I am pleased with its success so far. I look forward to building on this progress.”

 

Patient Voices

“From receiving the invitation via mail, I called the number and was given an appointment for the following day. I was then sent a text with the address and postcode as I hadn’t attended the family centre before. On arrival I was directed to the waiting area and then seen by a very polite and friendly nurse who made me feel very welcome. She explained in detail the procedure and we discussed my general health. It is so convenient to attend weekend appointments and feel that this should be available for everyone.” Patient Feedback.

Looking Ahead

Following the success of the pilot, Southport & Formby PCN has received funding to continue the service until at least May 2025, with the hope that this will be extended further. Ensuring even more women can access life-saving cervical screening at a time that works for them.

By accelerating action and breaking down barriers, this initiative has made a real difference—because every screening counts.

More about the service

This service is available to people in Southport and Formby who are due or overdue their cervical screening (smear test).

The service is located at the 7-Day GP in the same building as the Family Surgery, Liverpool Road, Birkdale, Southport.

It can be booked directly with the 7-Day GP Service by calling 01704 395 755.

The service runs on:

Tuesdays: 5pm-9pm

Fridays: 5pm-9pm

Saturdays: 9am-5pm