Plans are being developed to offer free NHS health checks to people as young as 30 in Clacton-on-Sea, in what could become a national first. Currently, these routine checks are offered to individuals aged 40 to 74, but lowering the starting age aims to tackle significant health disparities in the coastal town.

The proposal, discussed at a Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) meeting, is intended to catch early signs of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. The checks would include routine screenings like cholesterol and blood pressure testing. Dr Ed Garrett, who shared the update, said the plan is moving forward and could help address the area’s lower life expectancy.

Clacton has long been a focus for health inequality intervention. A 2021 report on coastal communities by Chief Medical Officer Sir Chris Whitty highlighted the higher rates of serious illness and reduced life expectancy in towns like Clacton. Local officials have noted that in some areas of the town, life expectancy can be up to 18 years lower than in more affluent parts of Essex.

An NHS spokesperson confirmed the proposal is still in the early stages, and further details will be shared once the plans are more fully developed.