House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Introduction of self-sampling for under-screened individuals in cervical screening
24 June 2025 · Department of Health and Social Care
Proposed by Ashley Dalton Lab West Lancashire
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The Minister announces the introduction of self-sampling kits for cervical screening for women overdue by at least six months.
- Screening providers will be permitted to offer self-sampling as a method to increase participation in cervical screening.
- The initiative aims to reduce barriers and improve access to screening services for under-screened individuals.
Issue summary
The statement addresses the introduction of self-sampling kits for under-screened individuals in the NHS Cervical Screening Programme.
Action requested
The Minister announces that screening providers will now be allowed to offer self-sampling kits to women who are overdue for their cervical screening appointments by at least six months, aiming to increase participation and reduce barriers to accessing screening services.
Key facts
- The NHS Cervical Screening Programme provides routine screenings for HPV infection or cervical abnormalities in England.
- Approximately three in ten of the eligible population do not attend their cervical screening appointments.
- Self-sampling will be offered only to under-screened individuals who are overdue by at least six months or have never attended.
- A self-sample positive result still requires a clinical test for confirmation.
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