To review and endorse the Excess Weight Partnership Strategy 2016-2020 and understand the actions required of the Council to ensure successful implementation.

That the Excess Weight Partnership Strategy for Central Bedfordshire that provides the basis for partnership actions to tackle excess weight in children, young people and adults, be endorsed.

The Executive considered a report that set out the Excess Weight Strategy that had been developed with partners to tackle this public health issue.  It was estimated that 69% (145,000) of adults in Central Bedfordshire were either overweight or obese. The priorities within the Strategy were:-

·         Creating environments which actively promote and encourage a healthy weight.

·         Giving all children and families the best start in life and supporting them in achieving a healthy weight and lifestyle.

·         Empowering adults and older people to attain and maintain a healthy weight.

·         Enabling practitioners working in Central Bedfordshire to have a meaningful discussion about weight in a confident and effective manner.

In response to a question, the Executive Member for Education and Skills agreed to investigate further the issue of children leaving school premises at lunchtime to eat off site.  He would work closely with the Executive Member for Health to reduce excess weight in children, including encouraging them to walk to school whilst taking into account the request for designated drop off points for parents who take their children to school by car.

Reason for decision:  The Strategy brought together the current position on excess weight and outlined the priorities for tackling the issue. 

RESOLVED

that the Excess Weight Partnership Strategy for Central Bedfordshire that provided the basis for partnership actions to tackle excess weight in children, young people and adults, be endorsed.