Let's talk cervical cancer screening report

Healthwatch Oldham undertook research on cervical cancer screening and the barriers that prevent women from attending screening appointments. The research was conducted between September and December 2025 and involved 282 survey responses and three focus groups attended by 30 people, including women from Bangladeshi and other ethnic minority communities and women with learning disabilities. The project was prompted by concerns about low screening uptake in Oldham, where screening rates remain below the NHS target of 80%. 

The report found that most participants understood what cervical cancer is and recognised the importance of regular screening, but knowledge was lower among Bangladeshi women and women aged 25-49. Overall, 73% of survey respondents had attended cervical screening within the previous three years, but attendance was lower among women with learning disabilities, disabled women more broadly, and Asian women. Common barriers included embarrassment, concerns that the procedure would be painful, and previous negative experiences. Additional barriers included uncertainty about booking systems, fear of what screening might find, practical difficulties arranging appointments, and religious or cultural concerns. 

The research also found that 49% of respondents were unaware they could request adjustments to make screening easier, rising to 67% among women who had not attended screening in the previous three years. Participants said that reminders, home testing, access to a female healthcare professional, translation services, longer appointments, smaller speculums and pre-appointment explanations could help improve attendance. Women from ethnic minority communities highlighted the importance of culturally sensitive communication and greater awareness of cultural issues among healthcare staff. 

Healthwatch Oldham concluded that targeted action is needed to improve screening uptake among groups less likely to attend. The report recommends co-producing culturally appropriate information and promotional materials with Bangladeshi women, introducing pre-screening support calls and accessible information for women with learning disabilities, and promoting the introduction of home testing kits through community-led campaigns. The aim is to reduce barriers to screening, improve awareness of available adjustments and support the national ambition to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040.