A Forth Valley wide service has helped thousands of people to improve their wellbeing, identify health conditions earlier, and tackle health inequalities, according to a new annual report. 

An annual summary of activity by the Keep well Service was presented to Falkirk’s Performance, Audit and Assurance Committee, highlighting how the service has helped people to take control of their own health and wellbeing. 

The service is also helping to ease pressure on wider health systems by identifying issues early and promoting self-management and healthier lifestyles. 

During 2024/25, the Keep well service delivered 8,575 patient contacts, with 2,761 of those contacts being new initial health assessments.  

The service has worked to target those least likely to access healthcare early, with 42% of the initial assessments being delivered to people living in the most deprived communities. 

At the heart of the service are one-to-one, person-centred health assessments that focus on early detection of conditions such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes, alongside mental wellbeing support. A range of clinical measures are taken, alongside any challenges people might have with their social or financial circumstances.  

As a result of the proactive approach, 624 people were diagnosed with previously unidentified physical health conditions, including pre-diabetes, hypertension and Type 2 diabetes.  

The service is also making a measurable difference to mental wellbeing. Among those who initially reported low scores, 89% said their mental health had improved following support.  

Keep well also runs a successful 16-week programme for adults experiencing mild to moderate mental health and wellbeing challenges. The group support programme, THRIVE, aims to improve confidence and support people into employment, volunteering and further education.  

In a short video presented to Committee members, patients and staff explained the positive impact that Keep well and THRIVE services can have on people’s lives. 

William, who has been supported by Keep well to lose weight, become more active, and improve his mental health said: “Since [starting the service] I’ve lost three stones and six pounds. I’ve found that my mood swings are a lot better and I feel a lot healthier within myself. 

“I’m able to keep up with my grandkids, and my clothes are fitting so much better – I’ve actually went down three jean sizes. This service is something I would say is required within today’s modern society” 

Alongside individual health assessments, the Keep well service works closely with partners to reach into communities. This includes support for people with learning disabilities, asylum seekers, those involved in the justice system, and individuals experiencing mental health challenges through the THRIVE programme.  

The annual summary report highlights the health and wellbeing improvements people have achieved with support of the service, with: 

• 34% experiencing weight loss, with many achieving clinically significant reductions 

• 32% reducing their alcohol intake 

• 32% increasing their physical activity levels 

• 10% reduced or stopped smoking 

• 63% of those monitored for high blood pressure were diagnosed and supported appropriately 

• 39% of those assessed were referred to GPs with previously unrecognised health concerns 

For more information about the Keep well service and how to access support, visit the NHS Forth Valley website. 

This article is based on the Keep well Service Annual Report 2024/25, presented to the Performance, Audit and Assurance Committee on 12 June 2026.