Health trust aiming to tackle obesity

Feb 11 2008 by Audrey Barton, The Journal

A HEALTH trust is developing new programmes to help support local children and families to tackle obesity.

New projects focusing on healthy eating and getting fit for children are due to be run by Northumberland Care Trust.

Public health specialist Dawn Scott said: “Childhood obesity can lead to many health complaints including problems with the joints and bones, high blood pressure, high levels of blood fats and diabetes. It can also lead to low self-esteem. Part of our work includes promoting healthy eating and increasing physical activity and we are working in partnership with schools to reduce childhood obesity.”

Roots and Shoots is one initiative which is being offered schoolchildren throughout the county by Northumberland Care Trust. With the help of staff at The Alnwick Garden, the schoolchildren are able to grow, harvest and taste their own fruit and vegetables. Key messages regarding healthy eating, how to cook healthy food and enjoy physical activity through gardening will be fully explored. The Get Active Northumberland Programme (GAN) is another which is due to be piloted in the Ashington and Hexham areas, aiming to support children aged seven to eleven and their families through a fun 10-week after-school and evening activity programme. It is aiming to start soon and interested families can contact Elaine Upson on (01670) 394516.