Report shows important steps taken in Bradford to improve health problems (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Report shows important steps taken in Bradford to improve health problems

4:56pm Tuesday 2nd February 2010 in

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A report analysing the progress made in tackling levels of obesity in the district goes before Bradford Council’s health improvement committee this week.

Obesity is a major public health issue, due to its damaging effect on general health and life expectancy.

In the Bradford and Airedale area, approximately one third (136,000) of adults are overweight and a further one fifth (88,000) are obese.

In 2006, the health improvement committee set up an obesity review group, which came up with 12 recommendations for action. The latest report provides an update of progress made against these points.

The main recommendation was the appointment of an obesity champion, and the report details how the primary care trust now has a dedicated obesity service, headed up by a service manager.

Other recommendations included the NHS and local authority setting a good example by promoting healthy lifestyles to all their employees, and that the primary care trust works with private organisations to reduce obesity.

The committee will be told how the Council has self-care programmes, and the PCT has established a wellbeing group.

They will hear how work is ongoing with Bradford Bulls and Bradford City and other sports organisations, and how the PCT commissioned Slimming World and WeightWatchers to provide free services to people in the district. So far, 1,200 people have benefited, with 36 per cent achieving at least a five per cent weight loss.

The PCT has also commissioned community-based programmes to provide courses and family support to tackle childhood obesity.

The report also details a raft of work being carried out in schools to ensure pupils are physically active and eating healthy food.

The report recommends that the committee endorses local authorities working with partners to create and manage more safe spaces for physical activity, ensure buildings are designed to encourage people to be more physically active and consider people who require tailored support, such as those with disabilities, older people and vulnerable groups The health improvement committee meets on Thursday at 4pm in City Hall.