Weight management programme for families in Chichester
A free course aimed at helping children adopt a healthier lifestyle is starting in Chichester next month.
(M)ind, (E)xercise, (N)utrition, (D)o It! is a ten-week programme that uses techniques developed by health experts. It is aimed at seven to 13-year-olds who are above their ideal weight, and their parents, to help them learn about food and discover fun ways to get fit.
The latest Chichester programme starts on Thursday 6 October at Westgate Leisure, Chichester. The free sessions run twice a week for two hours.
The course, which was developed in partnership with child health experts at Great Ormond Street Hospital, also includes a visit to the local supermarket where the children and their parents learn how to read food labels.
Councillor Eileen Lintill, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Wellbeing at Chichester District Council, said: “We have held several MEND programmes across the Chichester District and they have proved to be extremely popular, helping many families to discover more about healthy eating and exercise.
“We all lead such hectic lives that eating healthily can sometimes drop off the priority list. These courses show families how they can make small changes to get back on a healthier track.
“On the MEND programme children quickly make new friends and really enjoy trying out the different activities on offer. By the end of the 10 weeks their confidence has greatly improved. I encourage anyone concerned that their child may be above ideal weight to find out more about this excellent scheme.”
Places are limited so if you think your child is above a healthy weight and would like to find out more about MEND or to sign up for a place please contact Claire Parnell, Health Development Officer at the council, on 01243 785166 or email cparnell@chichester.gov.uk
