Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth most common cancer among both men and women in the UK. Despite advancements, CRC remains a significant cause of mortality and morbidity, accounting for ∼17 000 deaths and ∼43 000 new diagnoses annually.1

The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening programme (BCSP) aims to detect CRC at early stages. Attending bowel cancer screening confers a substantial 25% reduction in CRC-related mortality.2 BCSP is supplemented by primary care efforts for CRC early detection and referral. Identifying CRC at early stages offers favourable outcomes and better potential for curative interventions.2 In England, approximately 113 individuals are diagnosed with CRC for every 100 000 individuals initially invited.3 CRCs detected through screening showed a higher likelihood to receive curative treatments compared with those detected through emergency presentations.4

The NHS sends invitations for bowel cancer screening biennially, targeting individuals aged 60–74 years, with an extended option for those older to opt in. As of April 2021, the NHS has commenced lowering the eligibility age to 50 years. Invited participants receive an invitation letter, a leaflet explaining risks and benefits, a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) kit, and accompanying instructions.5 Despite the programme achieving a commendable 70.2% participation rate across England in 2022/2023, there remains significant gaps in participation.6

Published research underlines the disparities in participation, particularly among multi-ethnic communities, socioeconomically deprived regions, and specific groups, such as individuals with serious mental health illnesses, learning difficulties, and limited health literacy.7,8 For instance, within South East London, …