Scheme to combat childhood obesity starting in Huddersfield

May 6 2009 By Anne-Marie Senior

A SCHEME to combat childhood obesity is starting further classes in Huddersfield this month.

The free MEND course – which stands for Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do It – aims to help families kick-start a healthier lifestyle in just 10 weeks.

The course – which starts on May 19 – is open to overweight children between the ages of seven and 13.

The move comes as figures show a third of children are now over the healthy weight range for their age and height.

Jessica Bostwick, MEND programme manager for Huddersfield, said: “This is a great time of year to start getting active as the weather gets warmer and we all start planning for the summer holidays.

“The MEND programme shows families ways to make practical, positive changes to what they eat and get fitter and more active whilst having lots of fun.

“What’s more, it really works and it’s free thanks to sponsorship from Sainsbury’s.”

Classes will be held at Newsome High School as part of a national network of 300 courses which has already helped 10,000 families improve their diets and activity levels.

The programme is made up of two-hour sessions held twice a week for 10 weeks.

Children and their families learn about eating and exercise habits to improve fitness, physical levels, nutrition and self-esteem.