Knowsley Council is joining the national campaign for Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (19 to 25 January 2026) to empower residents with the information and tools to prevent cancer through vaccination and early detection.
With cervical screening saving approximately 5,000 lives a year in the UK, residents are reminded that it has never been easier to get checked. A mobile cervical screening service is currently visiting various locations across the borough offering drop-in appointments for those who have missed previous invitations.
Cervical screening (formerly known as a ‘smear test’) tests for HPV (human papillomavirus) that can cause cervical cancer. If these types of HPV are found, they can be treated before they get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.
Prevention starts early with the HPV vaccine, offered to school pupils in Year 8. This vaccine protects against cervical cancer, certain head and neck cancers, and genital warts.
Parents and carers are encouraged to look out for and return the school permission forms.
Girls under 25 and boys born after 1 September 2006 who missed their school session can still receive the vaccine at their GP.
Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, said:
“By getting the HPV vaccination and attending screenings when invited, you’re giving yourself the best possible protection against cervical cancer. It is a life-saving test that allows for preventative treatment before cancer even has a chance to develop. If you’ve received an invitation or missed your last appointment, don’t wait – book with your GP or visit our mobile screening service today.”