Hypertension Hero Project
Phase 1 – Phase 2 – Phase 3 – Continuing at FNC Centre
Folkestone Nepalese Community (FNC) has been a key delivery partner in the
Hypertension Hero Project since 2022, working with EK360, NHS Kent & Medway,
the British Heart Foundation and Healthwatch Kent. Together we bring culturally
accessible blood pressure support directly to the Nepalese community.
In 2023, FNC received a Healthwatch Recognition Award for its work on the
Hypertension Hero programme alongside EK360.
Below is a summary of FNC’s contribution across all three phases and beyond.
Phase 1 (2022) – Building the Foundations
Hosted Hypertension Hero training sessions at the FNC Centre.
Provided a trusted venue for blood pressure checks.
Enabled access for older Nepalese residents facing language and system barriers.
Helped shape the early model of community-delivered blood pressure support.
Phase 2 (2023) – Establishing Regular Weekly Support
Became an official community partner in Phase 2.
Delivered a weekly Hypertension Hero session at the FNC Centre.
Recruited local Hypertension Heroes, including a community coordinator.
Offered checks and lifestyle advice in both English and Nepali.
Used Centre activities and community events to reach more residents.
Phase 3 (2023–2024) – FNC as a Key Delivery Hub
The FNC Centre delivered 538 individual interactions in Phase 3, the highest in Folkestone & Rural.
99% of participants were from the Nepalese community.
84% were aged 65+.
98% of interactions were delivered in Nepali.
Many participants returned regularly, showing strong trust in FNC.
Beyond Phase 3 – Continuing the Service
Even after the formal project phases ended, FNC chose to continue Hypertension
Hero sessions independently, recognising the ongoing need within the community.
Weekly Hypertension Hero Drop-In at FNC Centre
Location: Folkestone Nepalese Community Centre, Baker Road, CT19 4NN
Time: Every Tuesday, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Open to: All residents
Free blood pressure checks.
Explanation of readings and what they mean.
Support using home blood pressure monitors.
Lifestyle advice on diet, exercise, alcohol and smoking.
Signposting to GP, pharmacies or NHS 111.
Working Together for Better Health
FNC is proud to work alongside EK360 and local NHS partners to make health
services more accessible, culturally appropriate and community-owned.
The Hypertension Hero Project remains one of FNC’s strongest examples of
community-led health empowerment.
