This year’s Director of Public Health report looks at how we can support children in Northumberland to attain and maintain a healthy weight throughout childhood, adolescence and into adulthood. We know there are inequalities in our children’s weight with those in the least deprived areas more likely to be a healthy weight than those in our most deprived areas. We also know that the number of children who are a healthy weight is decreasing even at a young age.
Weight is a complex issue and there isn’t one thing which will solve it. The report looks at the ways in which the environments where our children live, learn, play and grow can be influenced to enable healthy choices. It isn’t about large-scale additional investment but more how the power and influence of organisations and staff across all sectors, including schools, can be harnessed.
Thank you for taking the time to read and engage with this crucial issue. There is an opportunity to contribute to the formation of a Healthy Weight Alliance in an inaugural workshop taking place on the 18th May from 9am-1pm (lunch provided) at Choppington Social Welfare Centre, NE62 5SR. If you would like to attend this event please send a confirmation of attendance and any dietary requirements to kaat.marynissen@northumberland.gov.uk
The report is here. Please note there is an accessible version of the report here.
