That Members scrutinise the proposed Excess Weight Strategy, developed with partners, and provide feedback on future priorities.

The Executive Member for Health introduced the Excess Weight Services Strategy that outlined a partnership approach to tackle the high levels of excess weight. The Assistant Director Public Health advised that 70% of adults weighted more than was healthy and excess weight affected emotional wellbeing too.

The Strategy’s action plans would be measured quarterly and aimed to achieve a 1% reduction year on year to bring down the average in Central Bedfordshire.  The National Strategy was yet to be published, however, the Council’s Strategy would be updated in line with any new advice.

A Member asked how Town and Parish Councils could be made aware of the Strategy.  In response the Executive Member for Health would look to include an item at the Town and Parish Conference event. 

Members also queried whether healthy eating events to teach children and parents the importance of eating healthily and steer them away from takeaway outlets.  The Assistant Director advised that school nurses would reinforce the healthy eating message and also support those children under eating, and other associated problems. School Governors would also be asked to relay in schools the message on healthy eating and exercise.  Restricted opening times were also imposed on take away outlets near schools.

The Executive Member for Education and Skills advised the Committee that food technology had been reinstated on the schools curriculum and gave some opportunity for schools to teach healthy eating.

RECOMMENDED:-

1.    That the Committee recognised it is the responsibility of all (including parents in respect of their children) to ensure a good diet and exercise are the foundations for a healthy life.

2.    That the Executive Member encourages schools to be even more proactive in tackling excess weight through the curriculum and sport.

3.    That a further report be submitted in 12 months in relation whether the Council has achieved success

4.    That the Strategy be shared with the BCCG.

5.    That Town and Parish Councils be informed about this work.