Improved fitness levels, eating habits and greater levels of self esteem are just some of the benefits offered to children and their families as part of the MEND programme funded by the Island’s NHS.
MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition .....Do it!) is a 10 week programme aimed at families who would like to adopt a healthier, fitter lifestyle and is part of a national initiative offering free courses for 7 to 13 year olds and their families.
Six children recently completed the MEND Programme in Ventnor. Positive changes to their body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference have been shown as well as improvements to their overall fitness levels, self esteem and nutritional intake.
Feedback from parents at the end of the third programme has been very positive. Parents found the sessions extremely beneficial and were pleased to see the positive interaction between the children throughout the programme. Parents indicated that they found it valuable to meet other parents and children that where experiencing similar problems and concerns.
Due to the success of the previous 3 programmes, the Island’s NHS is providing a further five programmes which are due to start in September in the Newport and Freshwater area. The 10 week programmes invite families to take part in 2-hour fun sessions, twice a week .
The course (worth up to £400 per child) is offered to families completely free of charge on a first come first served basis.