Heart of the Game is a community-first health initiative using the power of football to help local people take control of their heart health.
Delivered by Freedom Leisure in partnership with the Gloucestershire FA and Blackbridge Charitable Community Benefit Society (CCBS), the programme brings free, accessible blood pressure checks and lifestyle support directly into trusted local spaces across Gloucester and the Cotswolds.
Our launch event - Saturday 7 February
A key moment in the campaign takes place at the Gloucester City match on 7 February, where all fans will be able to have their blood pressure checked in a relaxed, non-clinical environment.
No appointments, no pressure - just a simple opportunity to know your numbers while enjoying the match.
Find out more about Blackbridge CCBS
Find out more about the Gloucestershire FA
Find out more about Gloucester City AFC
Over nine months, Heart of the Game will deliver more than 1,000 community blood pressure checks at football matches, leisure centres, community venues and local roadshows. Participants will also be supported to take the next step, with access to physical activity programmes, lifestyle guidance and Exercise on Referral services through Freedom Leisure.
The initiative aligns with the One Gloucestershire Integrated Care System Hypertension Strategy and the NHS Know Your Numbers campaign, focusing on early identification, prevention and long-term behaviour change. By embedding health checks into everyday community life, Heart of the Game removes barriers, reduces stigma, and makes prevention simple and social.
Whether you are a regular matchday supporter, a leisure centre user, or simply curious about your health, Heart of the Game invites you to get involved—starting on 7 February at Gloucester City. One check could make a lasting difference.