Over 1,200 liver scans have now been completed at a pioneering series of pop-up clinics across Wolverhampton designed to bring non-invasive health screening directly into the community.
The free Firbo-scan clinics, which have taken place in community locations, businesses and within faith settings including gurdwaras, Hindu mandirs, mosques and a Buddhist centre, are helping to break down barriers to accessing treatment services and enabling residents to take control of their liver health.
Fibro-scans are a quick, painless test similar to an ultrasound which check for scarring and fat build-up in the liver. These are early indicators of conditions such as fatty liver, fibrosis, or cirrhosis. Results are provided instantly, with healthcare professionals on hand to explain findings and offer advice on next steps.
The initiative, launched last year, has already led to nearly 200 referrals to hepatology nurses at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, ensuring timely support for those at risk of alcohol-related liver disease.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: "These community Fibro-scan clinics are a fantastic example of how we are working with partners to bring healthcare into familiar, welcoming spaces.
"By teaming up with Recovery Near You and the Service User Improvement Team, and working alongside faith leaders, lived experience volunteers, businesses and community organisations, we’ve demonstrated the value of culturally sensitive, accessible, and health-focused interventions in breaking down stigma and helping residents to take proactive steps towards better liver health.
“Early liver damage often presents no symptoms. The Fibro-scan is quick, non-invasive and pain-free, and provides instant results on liver condition – including identifying any issues which need addressing.”
Helen Kilgallon, Operations Manager at Recovery Near You, added: "We are delighted to continue this collaboration with the City of Wolverhampton Council and SUIT.
“The warm welcome we’ve received from community settings, businesses and faith groups has been inspiring, and the success of these clinics shows the power of compassion, recovery, and inclusion. We look forward to expanding this work even further."
