100s may be fit for scheme on health

More than 900 people in south Staffordshire could benefit from a new scheme developed by health bosses to improve their fitness and well-being.

South Staffordshire PCT announced plans to create a Health Fit scheme in March.

This would see it employ two specialist health trainers for adults identified as being at risk from ill health due to their fitness. The project, which was given a £240,000 boost by Sport England, is now coming to fruition and the trust claims the unique idea could benefit hundreds of people.

Among the patients targeted would be those at risk from obesity, hypertension and high cholesterol.

Under this "Health Fit" scheme the trainer gives motivational support to help the patient to make healthier lifestyle choices which may involve increasing physical activity, stopping smoking, healthy eating and losing weight.

The money for the scheme has come from a lottery grant from Sport England's Regional Sports Board and it will focus on the most deprived areas covered by the PCT.

Judith Wright, director of public health, said: "At least 900 participants are expected to take part each year with over 8,000 additional physical activity sessions over the next three years.

"The funds from the National Lottery will support us to develop, in partnership with local authorities in South Staffordshire, a range of opportunities for people to participate in sport and active recreation to increase their physical activity levels.

"This award will greatly contribute to the programme, which in turn will improve the health and well being of our patients and the public."

In South Staffordshire only one in five adults do the recommended 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity, five times a week.

Mark Thornewill, director of Sport Across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, said: "We are delighted to hear of the award.

"The partnership supported the PCT in developing their application for 'Health Fit', which we feel will make a fundamental contribution towards use achieving increasingly active, healthy and successful communities across the area."