£300,000 cash boost to fight Stafford obesity

Stafford Borough Council and other organisations have pooled together funding for projects being run by community groups.

They can apply for the funding by submitting their project proposals to council and health bosses who will decide where the money will go.

The new commissioning scheme was announced at the Stafford and Surrounds Health and Wellbeing Summit which saw more than 120 people from local organisations and community groups attend.

It identifies four areas to focus on - obesity, the elderly, emotional wellbeing and people's living environments.

The event saw various presentations and speakers showcase work already being done to improve health and wellbeing in the borough while also looking at ways it can be improved.

The deadline for proposals is December 15.

Stafford Borough Council health boss Councillor Frank Finlay said: "Health is right at the top of the national and local agenda. And health and wellbeing is one of this council's top priorities.

"Issues such as an ageing population and obesity are always being discussed so we want to know that the work we are doing is the right way forward for our community. There are many organisations that play a major role in the health of our residents – from GPs and dentists to social housing providers or substance misuse groups.

"And through every step of the way in building a healthy future for Stafford and the surrounding community we have asked all those concerned in the wellbeing of local people to tell us what they think."

Councillors are encouraging people to think of ways they could get more people to do exercise or take part in sports to improve their fitness.

They are hoping for a range of proposals from people across the borough.

For more information on the funding and how to apply visit www.staffordbc.gov.uk/stafford-and-surrounds-commissioning-prospectus-

Visit www.staffordhealth.com for more information on the recent summit.