A South Gloucestershire care provider is helping to raise awareness of vascular disease.

Bluebird Care South Gloucestershire is supporting the ‘Step It Up’ for September campaign to promote Vascular Disease Awareness Month.

Behind the campaign is the Circulation Foundation, which aims to increase understanding and knowledge of vascular disease and its impact on people’s lives.

Vascular disease includes diseases of the veins, arteries and lymphatics and is caused by the accumulation of fatty deposits in the blood vessels which causes inflammation and weakness.

Over time, the build-up of fatty deposits reduces blood flow to vital organs and muscles.

The disease can be symptomless until it results in tissue death causing pain and impaired mobility.

Risk factors include having high blood pressure of cholesterol, smoking and being overweight.

Jack Whitfield, director of Bluebird Care South Gloucestershire, said: “We know that many of our customers have a greater chance of developing vascular disease.

"Our staff provide expert care to minimise the risk by supporting a healthy diet and encouraging an active lifestyle.

"Raising awareness this month could truly save lives and Bluebird Care is 100 per cent behind the campaign.”