We are pleased to confirm a series of cervical screening (smear) clinics taking place at Wirral Ways throughout 2026, delivered in partnership with Sexual Health Wirral.
These clinics are part of our wider commitment to supporting women’s health and removing barriers to accessing essential healthcare. By working together, we aim to make cervical screening feel more approachable, informed and supportive.
What is Cervical Screening?
Cervical screening, often called a smear test, is a routine health check that helps prevent cervical cancer.
The test looks for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is very common and most people will have it at some point in their lives, often without knowing. In some cases, high risk types of HPV can cause changes to the cells of the cervix over time.
Cervical screening helps identify HPV and any early cell changes before they develop into cancer. This means screening is about prevention rather than diagnosis, and most people who attend will not need any further treatment.
Why Cervical Screening Matters
Cervical cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. Screening helps spot changes early, when treatment is most effective.
Regular cervical screening:
- Helps detect HPV early
- Identifies cell changes before they become cancer
- Significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer
- Saves lives
Attending screening when invited is one of the most effective ways to protect your long term health.
We Understand Screening Can Feel Difficult
We know that smear tests can feel worrying or uncomfortable for many people. You may feel anxious about the procedure, concerned about pain, embarrassed, or have had a difficult experience in the past. For some, menopause, trauma or long gaps since their last screening can also make it harder to attend.
These feelings are completely valid.
That is why these sessions are designed to be supportive, respectful and led by experienced healthcare professionals from Sexual Health Wirral. You are always in control, you can ask questions, take breaks, or decide not to go ahead.
Women’s Health Huddle, Tuesday 27 January 2026
Ahead of the clinics, Sexual Health Wirral will be joining our Women’s Health Huddle on Tuesday 27 January.
From 4pm, Sexual Health Wirral will:
- Talk through the smear process step by step
- Explain what happens during the appointment
- Show the equipment used
- Answer questions in a relaxed and informal setting
This session is about reassurance and understanding. There is no pressure to book or have a smear on the day.
Sexual Health Wirral will be available until 6pm, and anyone who feels comfortable can choose to have their smear taken that evening.
Cervical Screening Clinic Dates at Wirral Ways
All clinics will take place at Wirral Ways between 2.00pm and 3.30pm on the following dates:
- Tuesday 17 February 2026
- Tuesday 14 April 2026
- Tuesday 9 June 2026
- Tuesday 4 August 2026
- Tuesday 29 September 2026
- Tuesday 24 November 2026
Who Can Attend?
Cervical screening is offered to people with a cervix, usually between the ages of 25 and 64. Screening is still important even if you:
- Feel well
- Are not currently sexually active
- Have had normal results before
- Have delayed or missed previous appointments
If you are unsure whether you are eligible, or want to talk things through first, support is available.
Getting Support and Booking In
If you would like to attend one of the clinics, or come along to the Women’s Health Huddle to find out more, please speak to your keyworker or a member of the Wirral Ways team.
We will also be sharing information directly with women accessing our services.
Looking after your health matters. By working in partnership with Sexual Health Wirral, we are proud to offer cervical screening in a familiar, trusted and supportive space.
Last Updated on 12 January 2026