Liverpool free liver checks at BSG LIVE this June

Liverpool residents will be able to access free FibroScan liver health checks during the BSG LIVE 2026 Public Health Engagement Programme, running alongside the British Society of Gastroenterology’s flagship conference in the city this June.

The public programme runs from Sunday 21 June to Thursday 25 June. The first confirmed public-facing feature is Colin the Colon, the inflatable digestive health exhibit from Guts UK, at Metquarter Liverpool on Sunday 21 June. Free FibroScan liver health checks will be made available to people living in Liverpool while BSG LIVE 2026 is in the city from 22 to 25 June.

Times have not yet been announced. Entry and scans are free, with booking details for the liver checks due to be shared closer to the event. The programme is aimed at the general public, with a clear focus on Liverpool residents.

Free liver scans during BSG LIVE

The initiative is being delivered by Liverpool Experience Campus (LEX) with The British Society of Gastroenterology, the British Liver Trust, Liverpool Convention Bureau and Liverpool City Council’s Public Health team.

Its most practical offer for residents is the free FibroScan liver health check. The source describes FibroScan tests as quick, non-invasive and painless scans that can detect early signs of liver disease before symptoms appear.

That early-warning role is central to the programme. Liver disease is described in the source material as the third leading cause of premature death in the UK, while around 90% of cases are preventable. Alcohol-related liver disease is also highlighted as one of the few major causes of death still rising among people under 75.

For residents, the immediate message is simple: the checks are intended to help people identify risk earlier, then seek treatment, advice or lifestyle support where needed. Exact booking arrangements have not yet been released.

Metquarter exhibit brings digestive health into the city centre

The public engagement programme begins before the conference itself with Colin the Colon at Metquarter Liverpool on Sunday 21 June.

The inflatable exhibit is designed to help people of all ages understand digestive health in a more direct and memorable way. Its city-centre setting means the conference’s public health message will not be limited to delegates attending BSG LIVE 2026.

The programme is linked to LEX’s Legacy Strategy, which aims to make major events leave benefits for the Liverpool City Region beyond visitor numbers and conference spending.

A spokesperson for The British Society of Gastroenterology said the organisation was “delighted to be helping to create a legacy that will last well beyond our conference,” adding that the work reflects its commitment to prevention, early diagnosis and public engagement.

What residents know so far

Cllr Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, said liver disease is “one of the most significant and preventable health challenges” facing Liverpool.

He said bringing free liver health checks into the community, alongside support services, could help people understand their risk and act earlier.

Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool, said liver disease often develops silently, making early detection critical. He said community FibroScan testing gives people a chance to identify issues before they become serious and access the right advice and support.

Help if you cannot get a scan

People who cannot access a scan during the event, or who are already concerned about their liver health, are encouraged to speak to their GP or local pharmacy. The source states that liver health can be assessed through routine tests and, where appropriate, referral for further investigation.

Support is also available year-round in Liverpool for anyone worried about alcohol use. River, Liverpool’s commissioned drug and alcohol treatment service, offers free, confidential support for people concerned about their own drinking or someone else’s. The service can be contacted on 0151 706 7888.

Source: Liverpool City Council