Barnet Council's successful child weight loss programmes seek new recruits » Health » 24dash.com

Barnet Council is looking for primary school children to take part in two new MEND programmes in Barnet.

The programmes which start in September aim to support parents and help their children get to a healthy weight by teaching families about nutrition and making exercise fun.

The programmes consist of  18  evening sessions over 10 weeks which include an hour of physical activity for children at each session and information and support for parents/carers.  
 
Meeting other adults who are dealing with similar difficulties is a key part of the scheme for parents who are trying to help their children be healthy.

Children who have taken part in previous MEND programmes say that they have made new friends and feel better about themselves through taking part in this initiative.  
 
Backed up by over five years of development and research by leading experts in obesity related fields, this national programme is extremely successful in helping children and their parents learn together about healthy eating and to take part in regular exercise - and most importantly motivating them to keep going with the changes they have made to their lives after the programme is over.

So far, Barnet Council has run three very successful MEND programmes in partnership with Barnet PCT.

This is all part of the council's aim to secure a bright future for children and young people and to help  residents stay strong and healthy.  
 
Taking part is free  so if you are worried about your child's weight and you and your child could attend two evening sessions a week for 10 weeks then this programme could be ideal for you.

Two programmes will be run from September with 30 places available for children from across the Borough.  Parents and carers interested in finding out more about MEND in Barnet can phone Christine Morris at 020 8359 6360  for more information or to book a place.

Priority will be given to children who need to lose most weight.  

Councillor Helena Hart, Cabinet Member for Public Health said: "This is an excellent programme which gives practical help to parents who are trying their best to help their children reach a healthy weight and who may feel that they are struggling.

"In contrast to just putting children on the same old boring diet, these sessions are packed with enjoyable and interesting activities for children and give parents the information and support that they need.

"Children on the programme say that they make new friends and enjoy the activities which also helps build their self confidence."

Andrew Burnett, Director of Health Improvement / Medical Director, Barnet PCT said: "Barnet PCT and Barnet Council continues to work hard in providing support and education to children and their parents/carers that will enable them to make healthy lifestyle choices.

"MEND Programmes aim to educate children and their parents that healthy eating doesn't have to be expensive or hard work. Those that have attended the programmes previously, have found them very helpful and rewarding."