29 January 2010

Tackling childhood obesity

Over 30 families in Hammersmith and Fulham are learning about nutrition and exercise as part of the MEND (Mind Exercise Nutrition Do-it) course.

Staying Put Service’s Well-being project delivers the course in three venues across Hammersmith and Fulham. Over ten weeks children who are above a healthy weight learn about nutrition, food and exercise.

The children also get to play football with coaches from Chelsea Football Club in the Community, Fulham Football Club Foundation and QPR in the Community.

Brenda Nash, a parent at the group, said: “We are learning a lot from MEND including portion sizes and healthy alternatives to current meals. My son was shy at first but he has now settled in and is even telling me not to eat the crisps at home.”

Graham Raine, Director of Staying Put Services, said: “It is important that children learn the value of food and how to eat a balanced diet. The course works very closely with parents to help children change their habits. It also teaches parents to encourage their children to try new foods.”

Parents and children spend an hour together talking about food groups and healthy meals and then the children do exercise for an hour while parents learn how to encourage children to change dietary habits. In a separate session the psychology of changing eating habits is discussed.

MEND is free for any family with children over an ideal weight in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. If you would like to take part in the next course please contact Earl Fairclough at the Well-being project on 020 8846 6441.

For more information
Hannah Stokes
Tel: 020 8996 4237
Email: hannah.stokes@sbhg.co.uk