16 February 2022
We have launched a new programme aimed at getting children, young people and their families more active and eating healthily.
The NHS Borders Child Healthy Weight Service: Fit4Fun Families is a free, family focused healthy lifestyle programme which offers practical tips for healthy eating and being more active.
Director of Public Health, Tim Patterson, said: “NHS Borders Child Healthy Weight Programme: Fit4Fun Families is an exciting programme for families developed and delivered locally in the Scottish Borders by Specialist Dietitians, Psychologists and Community Food Workers. The team offer practical tips to help children, young people and families eat well and be active. We’ve had a really positive response from those who have attended the programme to date, and look forward to welcoming more families along.”
Director of Nursing, Midwifery & Allied Health Professionals, Sarah Horan, said: “Programmes are run over a number of weeks and our team work closely with families to identify specific goals they want to achieve, adapting sessions to give the right support. This can include specialist dietary and lifestyle advice, mindful eating, how to read labels, meal patterns and menu planning, fun movement and physical activities as well as the importance of sleep.”
Feedback we have received from families who have participated in the programme include:
Family 1: “We have really enjoyed the Fit4Fun Families programme. It was arranged at a time that was convenient so we could both participate. Sessions have been fun and informative and at a level that suits the age of any child.
“The pack we received is full of useful information and recipes. We also received bats, balls, bean bags and skipping ropes which my daughter is thoroughly enjoying playing with.”
Family 2: “We have learned a lot over the past few weeks, which has been fun and helpful. The girls loved doing all of the activity videos. Their favourite thing was the sugar game and we were all shocked at how much sugar is in some foods.
“We’ve been keeping up with the goals that we set. We would highly recommend this group to any parents looking to know about how to eat healthily with their kids.”
To access this service, contact the team on 01896 826447 or speak to your GP, Health Visitor, School Nurse or another health professional. You can also sign up by emailing this self-referral form to child.healthyweightservice@borders.scot.nhs.uk
Families can also find out more about the programmes on offer as well as helpful information about making healthy lifestyle choices here.