West Lothian Council delivers

Health and medical information - General Advice

TOGETHER FOR HEALTH (T4H)

Child obesity is a major public health concern with the rise in obesity predicted to continue unless major changes in lifestyle and the environment are made. Body Mass Index (BMI) statistics for 2008/09 published recently show that 19.8% of Primary 1 children in Scotland were classified as overweight including 8.0% obese and 3.9% severely obese. (source: ISD Scotland, December 2009). Overweight children are more at risk of becoming overweight adults.

Obesity is a major risk factor for other health complications such as Type 2 diabetes, cancers, cardiovascular risk as well as the psychosocial impact resulting in low self-esteem and depression.

Together For Health (T4H) aims to reduce the rate of increase of overweight children by working with the community and partners to promote the benefits of regular physical activity and less sedentary behaviours, the importance of eating a healthy, balanced diet and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Involvement from local partners with a strong commitment to positive action for the community is crucial to promote the prevention of childhood obesity.

Recent Events:  T4H held a Fun With Food Festival from 26th September to 2nd October 2011. Throughout the week a programme of fun activities were on offer such as practical cooking sessions on making soup, healthy curries and a session for parents and children on how to make healthy packed lunches. There was a visit to Armadale's Community Growing Garden for tips and hints on growing your own veg and ideas on what you can do with your produce once it is harvested. Throughout the week there was a photographic exhibition at Armadale Community Centre of foods from around the world and a fun scavenger hunt for the children to take part in. The market event on Sunday 2nd October gave opportunities for hands on experience with food tastings and cooking demonstrations from Food Creations chef, Simon Preece. There was also lots of family fun events with circus skills, face painters and a smoothie bike to whip up some tasty fruit smoothies.

For further information on Together for Health, please contact Rili Craig, Project Officer on 01506 281105 or email rili.craig@westlothian.gov.uk

updated: 29/09/11