Council delivers healthy lifestyle programme

borough called ‘Fun, food and fitness’.

Northern Trust Dietetics and Health Improvement departments worked in partnership with Council’s Environmental Services and Leisure Services

to implement the bespoke programme.

Focusing on adults and children who were keen to review their lifestyles, it helped participants to lose weight by making positive

changes to their diets and physical activity levels.

The six month programme has been comprised of three unique elements. The Fun, food and fitness programme offered one to one sessions with a

registered dietitian; completion of a six-week practical ‘Cook it! Programme’ led by Council’s Environmental Services; and participation in

a 12 week physical activity programme supported by fitness instructors at local leisure centres.

Health and Well-Being Officer, Debbie Blair said: “The Cook it element of the programme has been well received by participants who learned

about the recommended proportions of food groups within the diet through group based activities, cross words, food diaries and food bingo.

“Each week practical cookery sessions included the preparation of some well known family favourites based on healthy ingredients.

“Participants have commented that they are already putting their healthy lifestyle practices into action via preparation of lower fat

meals, sugar and salt reduction, inclusion of additional fruit and vegetables, and a commitment to physical activity.”