Telford childhood obesity figures reveal scale of healthy weight challenge

Health and social care leaders are set to be given an update this week on efforts to spread the healthy weight message in classrooms as figures show the scale of the challenge across Telford & Wrekin.

So far this year 386 adults and 22 families have accessed the local Healthy Lifestyles and Healthy Families programmes.

Around three quarters of them achieved their main goals within their 12-week programme, many of those focussing on weight loss. The number of referrals into the service has risen by 17 per cent.

The Shropshire Star publishes public notices from across the county, which are also available online through the Public Notice Portal here: https://publicnoticeportal.uk/shropshire-star.

But officials recognise there is more to do with a 'substantial number of children' who could benefit in the community.

Latest data from the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) showed that an average of one in every four children at reception classes in the borough in the period 2022-23 to 2024-5 were considered 'overweight''

More than one in 10 children of that tender age are considered to be obese or severely obese.

But by the time they reach the age of 10-11 in year six the numbers of overweight children has increased to just short of 38 per cent, nearly four in every 10.

And the number of obese children has risen from 11 per cent in reception classes to a 24.6 per cent in year six, nearly one in every four.

A report to the health and wellbeing board reads: "Data from the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) continues to identify a substantial number of children who could benefit from Healthy Families support.

"Converting eligibility into programme participation remains an area for further development.

"The service is reviewing engagement methods and using targeted communications, including text messaging, to increase awareness of support, alongside continued work with partners to promote referrals and encourage family participation."

The report states that early years setting have been "targeted using data on deprivation and child weight prevalence."

They receive tailored support and there is 'joint working' including the council’s catering team.

They have come up with bespoke training to increase practitioner knowledge of healthy diets, physical activity recommendations and effective healthy lifestyle conversations.

The Healthy Telford Partner initiative is being developed and is due to launch next quarter.

The plan is for it to engage workplaces, schools, community centres, faith groups and other partner organisations.

Officials have also started a training programme on 'healthy conversations'.

Since April 1 a the team has attended 113 events and delivered 877 blood pressure or mini health checks.

They have also developed resources promoting the benefits of free school meals, including highlighting both health and financial benefits for families.

This week the government revealed the first new school food standards for more than a decade as an overhaul was aimed at tackling childhood obesity and tooth decay.