MEND programme will help Monmouthshire's overweight children get fitter, healthier and happier

A programme aimed at helping overweight children manage their weight is coming to Monmouthshire.

The MEND programme (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition...Do it!) is part of a national initiative offering free healthy lifestyle courses for overweight 7 to 13 year olds and their families.

Qualified fitness instructors from Monmouthshire County Council's leisure centres will work with Gwent Healthcare NHS Trust dietitians to run the courses at locations across the county.

The course asks families to commit to 2-hour sessions, twice a week for 10 weeks. In doing so, families will learn how to improve their eating and exercise habits, thus improving children's fitness, physical activity levels, nutrition and self-esteem.

Thanks to funding from the Welsh Assembly Government, 75 places on the course worth up to £400 per child are being offered to families completely free of charge on a first come first served basis.

The MEND programme has proven results. Youngsters, who take part change body shape, reduce their waistlines and achieve a healthier weight for their age and height. The programme inspires families to adopt a healthier lifestyle and enjoy preparing and eating healthy foods as well as tips for healthy shopping on a budget. There are also simple but exciting sessions which focus on making exercise fun again - especially for children who are not fans of traditional school sports. 

Ian Saunders, MCC's Leisure Manager said:

"We are really excited that we can bring the MEND programme to Monmouthshire. It's proven a very successful scheme across Wales and it's important that we do everything we can to educate children and families in the importance of healthy living and exercise.

We have some fantastic facilities at our leisure centres. They are the perfect place to encourage younger people to be more active and have fun at the same time."

Claire Baber, children's dietitian and MEND Programme Manager for North Gwent said:

 "The MEND Programme can really change families' lives. We offer a friendly relaxed atmosphere to encourage children to give new things a go and show parents how they can be supportive and involve the whole family in making healthier choices and follow an active lifestyle.

We very much hope families will take up the chance to improve their health with this fantastic free course."

The first course in Monmouthshire will run for 10 weeks from 15^th September 2009 (after school on Tuesday and Thursday) at Abergavenny Leisure Centre. The second course will begin in January at Chepstow Leisure Centre.

Places on the MEND programme are being allocated on a first come, first served basis. Booking is essential. Families interested in participating should contact Claire Baber on 01873 732620. Please note a parent or carer must accompany each child to every session.