We all deserve gynaecological care that is trauma informed and culturally sensitive.

We believe that everyone — no matter your background — deserves cervical screening that respects your dignity, your body, and your voice. That’s why ‘It’s A Smear Campaign’, supported by the Rosa Voices from the Frontline Fund, is working to make gynaecological care in Nottingham culturally sensitive and trauma-informed.

Research indicates that certain groups of women – such as those at younger or older ages, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people living in deprived areas, those with disabilities, from ethnic minority communities, with severe mental illness, or whose first language is not English – are less likely to attend routine cervical cancer screenings.

For survivors of sexual abuse, cervical screening can feel especially distressing and triggering due to the invasive nature of the procedure. There are some examples of great, supportive care during cervical screening, but this isn’t always consistent.

‘It’s A Smear Campaign’ aims to bridge the gap between how healthcare professionals deliver cervical screening, and the real needs and access barriers women experience. Through shared understanding, empathy, and collaboration, we’ll empower women to feel informed, supported, and respected — while encouraging healthcare professionals to reflect on and enhance the way care is provided to all women. Our goal is to ensure everyone receives consistent, culturally sensitive and trauma-informed gynaecological care.

We’re calling on the Nottingham City Primary Care Networks (PCN) to lead the way — setting an improved standard in women’s gynaecological care — one that truly centres women’s voices and lived experiences.

WHAT?

‘It’s A Smear Campaign’ is led by Nottingham Women’s Centre as part of the *Women’s Health Matters campaign and funded by the Rosa ‘Voices from the Frontline fund’. Through shared understanding, empathy, and collaboration, we’ll empower women to feel informed, supported, and respected — while encouraging healthcare professionals to reflect on and enhance the way care is provided. The ultimate goal is to ensure that every woman receives consistent, culturally sensitive and trauma-informed care.

*Women’s Health Matters aims to bring education, empowerment & awareness to women about their health and well-being. Women’s Health Matters is here for you, because your health is so important. We’re here to increase knowledge and raise awareness about women’s health issues. We’re creating spaces for conversation to break down barriers. Together, we’ll smash taboos about gynaecological health! And we’re here to listen to your lived experiences on these matters too.

WHY?

Cervical screening saves approximately 5,000 lives a year as one of the best ways to prevent cervical cancer. Despite its effectiveness, uptake for cervical screening is on the decline. In Nottingham, screening rates are lower than the national average. Every woman deserves to have the same positive experience, wherever she goes. By making care consistently culturally sensitive, community language supported, and trauma-informed, we can help more women feel safe and confident when accessing gynaecological care.

With the new five-year screening interval launched by the government in June 2025 and self-sampling kits expected in 2026, now is the time to act — to make cervical screening a positive, empowering experience for everyone.

HOW?

It’s A Smear Campaign will work with Nottingham City Primary Care Networks on how to bridge the gap between what women need, and what is currently delivered. We’ll be led by a steering group of women, and will deliver our two key outcomes:

1. Commitments from Primary Care Networks (PCNs):

PCN commitments to deliver and act on insights we gather through community listening sessions led by women. Our recommendations will provide culturally sensitive, trauma-informed practical guidance on delivering cervical screening and gynaecological care.

2. Learning Resources for Community Groups:

Resources designed to empower women, including information on our rights and the support available to ensure access to respectful gynaecological care and positive screening experiences.

OUR GOALS

1. Consistent and quality care:

Strengthen practice across Nottingham PCNs to ensure every woman receives a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed screening experience.

2. Increased awareness and confidence:

Empower women with the knowledge, confidence, and support they need to attend cervical screening and gynaecological appointments with trust and understanding.

WHO?

Nottingham Women’s Centre is seeking passionate and committed women who want to make a difference to women’s experiences of healthcare in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. We’d love you to join our Steering Group and play a central role in guiding the direction as a volunteer for ‘It’s A Smear Campaign‘. This is an unpaid role; however, members will be reimbursed for expenses to attend meetings.

Join Our Steering Group

Our Purpose:

The Steering Group will provide strategic oversight and ensure that women’s lived experiences shape every aspect of the campaign. It will foster collaborative learning, draw on expert guidance, and be grounded in community leadership and co-production.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee the successful delivery of campaign goals.

Ensure alignment with clinical best practice and public health guidance.

Support community listening sessions and the development of co-produced resources.

Advocate for and amplify the voices of women from diverse backgrounds in healthcare conversations.

Promote inclusive, equitable, and culturally sensitive practices in gynaecological care.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome expressions of interest from women who

Have lived experience of cervical screening or accessing gynaecological care in Nottingham.

Want to improve women’s health experiences.

Commitment

Meetings: Monthly (virtual or in-person), with additional sessions if required.

Duration: From appointment through to October 2026.

We understand that this is an unpaid role, however, members are expected to actively participate in meetings and contribute to activities.

Our Values and Ways of Working

We are committed to building a non-hierarchical, inclusive, and feminist space rooted in equity, fairness, anti-racism and shared learning and decision-making. Members will contribute to shaping the group’s working principles and ways of collaboration.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about women’s health, and community-led change, we would love to hear from you.

Please submit a brief expression of interest (max 500 words) outlining:

Why are you interested in being part of this steering group?

Can you share a related experience or story that has shaped who you are?

Do people come to you for advice, support, or help with health or personal issues? Why do you think that is?

Will you be available for an induction on 10^th March 12.30pm to 2pm?

Are you happy for us to use your parts of your responses and a headshot photo for publicity and promotion of this campaign? [ YES / NO ]

Please send to: hello@nottinghamwomenscentre.com
Deadline: Monday 23^rd February 2026

*If you would like to talk to us about reasonable adjustments for your application, please email hello@nottinghamwomenscentre.com or call 0115 941 1475 and ask to leave a message for the Women’s Health Matters team.

It’s A Smear Campaign!