7/14/2009

Helping carers get fit

Michelle Bosc is a full-time carer for her 19 year son who has learning disabilities. She is currently embarking on a new healthier lifestyle with the help of a health trainer.

She is taking part in a new health trainer service for full-time carers in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. Shepherds Bush Housing Group (SBHG) is providing free, one to one advice and support from a qualified health trainer.

Michelle’s goal is to 'reach a healthy weight' and to 'increase overall well being’. She said: "I think the service is essential for me as a carer. I need to maintain my health in order to look after my son. Without the support, guidance, and encouragement it is so easy to let things slip and to neglect my own health - this service really helps with that.

"I am now starting to eat well and start exercising again. Knowing that I have a health trainer keeps me thinking and makes me aware of what I need to do. My health trainer keeps me motivated and helps me to stay on track."

Katie Oliver, health trainer, said: “Caring for someone can be stressful and sometimes people neglect their own health. We help in a relaxed and informal way.”

Carers can choose whether they want to increase their activity, improve their diet, quit smoking, reach a healthy weight or learn to relax. The health trainers provide motivation and support to reach long-term health goals step by step.

Carers can have up to 12 sessions which may involve accompanying a client to a new activity. Each client is then given a personal health plan.

Any full-time carers over the age of 18 who would like to take advantage of this free service can contact the health trainers on 020 8846 6464.

For more details please contact 
Hannah Stokes
Tel: 020 8996 4237
Hannah.stokes@sbhg.co.uk