Two New Areas Get MEND
MEND, a nationwide project to get children and their families on track to a healthier lifestyle, is being launched soon in Scissett and the Fartown/Deighton area of Huddersfield.
The scheme, which is for children aged seven to 13 who are overweight, has been running in Kirklees for a year. Regular nine-week programmes are run in Batley, Spenborough, Dewsbury and the Colne Valley.
MEND aims to make positive and sustainable changes to eating and exercise habits by involving the whole family. Parents and guardians have to accompany children to exercise sessions and take part in theory/advice sessions.
While the goal is serious, the emphasis is on fun and making friends. Results show that the scheme is scoring well, both nationally and locally.
MEND is FREE to attend and each programme consists of 18 sessions (twice a week for two hours per session).
The exercise sessions include an hour of sportshall games or swimming pool based games. The theory/advice sessions are interactive discussions that teach parents and carers easy, effective ways to improve children’s behaviour and self confidence.
There are also practical demonstrations, games and tips about healthy foods, label reading and portion sizes.
In Scissett, the new MEND programme will start on Monday, May 19, with the first session, 5pm-7pm, at Scissett Baths. The second session of the week will be on a Thursday at Scissett Middle School, starting at 4.30pm.
In Fartown/Deighton, the programme starts on Tuesday, May 20, with the first session being held weekly at Huddersfield Sports Centre, 6pm-8pm. The second session will be on Thursdays at Christchurch Woodhouse School, starting at 4.30pm.
MEND is delivered locally by Kirklees Council’s Physical Activity Development Team, part of Kirklees Culture and Leisure Services.
Places are limited, so families wanting to take part should book now to avoid disappointment. To book places or for more information, call the Physical Activity Development Team on 01484 234096.
Although there is no cost to attend the programme, children have to be assessed for qualification based on their age, weight and health.