Agenda item

Matthew Cole, Director of Public Health, presented the report and explained how the Strategy set out plans and action to be taken over the next four years to tackle one of significant health challenges the Borough faces.  Matthew went on to explain how those lifestyle changes set out in the strategy could have a positive impact in improving healthy active life results across all age ranges. 

In response to a question from Cllr Carpenter it was noted that schools were involved in the Health School Award Plan at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels and the Borough also had the highest uptake of Healthy School Awards in London.  Public Health also fund aspects of PHSE in schools to encourage children to make better lifestyle choices.  The Healthy Weight Alliance was also a pivotal part of the partnership working to improve long-term health of residents.

Cllr Turner raised the issue of encouraging healthy shopping through the use of regeneration and community initiatives to encourage private enterprise to offer healthy options, rather the more prevalent high sugar, high fat options that many sell.  Matthew Cole advised that there may be some potential initiatives and support that could be provided through the food hygiene and licensing and officers would look into the options. 

The issue of positive body image and mental health was also discussed.  Concern was raised in regard to the officious and unfriendly prescribed wording that must be used in the letter sent to parents under the National Child Measurement Plan.  This issue had been raised with NHS England by a number of agencies, including LBBD and other councils.  In addition, the BMI used in those measurements were Caucasian and other races may have a different BMI base, which could give a misleading result to parents and health professionals.  Ceri Jacob noted the points and agreed to raise them with colleagues at NHS England.

Melody Williams, NELFT, advised that many parents when advised that their child is over average BMI react positively and ask for advice.

Dr Andy Heeps, BHRUT, advised that the Food Court at Queen’s Hospital had been revamped and more healthy options, including a healthy option vending machine, were now available.  A greengrocer concession had also recently opened at the main entrance and this was had been positively received and was being well frequented.  King George Hospital food areas would be the next to be revamped.

Following discussion about how to get healthy lifestyle and eating information absorbed by parents and children and it was felt that joint campaigns could be the way forward.  Anne Bristow, Strategic Director Service Improvement and Development, LBBD, suggested that officers consider how to target information to children on various initiatives, for example a book mark could be provided with healthy eating information on it, which would meet the aims to inform on healthy options and encourage children to read. 

The Board:

(i)  Received and commented on the Strategy in regards to the potential to encourage healthy food choices in commercial outlets; 

(ii)  Noted that consideration would be given on how to target information to children on various initiatives.

(iii)  Approved the Healthy Weight Strategy 2016-2020.