West Lothian Council delivers

Health and medical information - General Advice

 

ARMADALE GET TOGETHER FOR HEALTH (A24H)

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.

Armadale Together For Health (A24H) 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.

The Armadale and Blackridge ward is one of eight Healthy Weight Communities in Scotland funded for two years by the Scottish Government as pathfinder projects. NHS Lothian also provides funding for the project to emulate a French model, EPODE, (Together Let's Prevent Childhood Obesity) which saw positive lifestyle changes and childhood obesity in participating towns cut by almost 25%. The project is taking a unique approach built on four pillars - adopting social marketing techniques, building partnerships, gaining political support and a robust evaluation process. The approach will be encouraging community involvement to inform action and development of the strategy. It aims to change the environment and thereby unhealthy behaviours.

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:  A24H held its first community event, a Twilight Santa Parade, in December 2009. The focus was on having fun and highlighting the project to the children and families of the ward. Participants received a certificate congratulating them on walking a mile with Santa and a Santa hat. The walkers were rewarded with Santa gifts, a hot drink and were entertained with Christmas carols played by Broxburn Silver Band. The project is currently developing a roadshow for the Primary 6 schools in the ward in the coming months promoting enjoyable, healthy activities with the children, teachers and parents.

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