Barnsley Council's Cabinet members will discuss their contract for the Adult Weight Management Programme, also known as the Barnsley Wellbeing Programme, this week.
Since its inception in January 2019, this initiative has played a pivotal role in promoting healthier lifestyles and combating obesity within the community.
Delivered by Barnsley Premier Leisure (BPL), the programme offers up to twelve weeks of personalised support, either individually or in group settings, for people who want to achieve a healthier weight.
This evidence-based initiative has consistently demonstrated its effectiveness in helping participants with higher weight increase activity levels, enhance mental wellbeing, achieve weight loss and improve dietary habits.
The contract for the initial pilot programme is set to conclude on September 30 2024. Recognising the programme's positive impact and the rising levels of obesity in Barnsley, a business case has been prepared for the council to directly award the contract to the current provider for a minimum of five years.
Councillor Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, said, "Barnsley Council is dedicated to helping people stay healthy and happy. The Adult Weight Management Programme has been a successful part of this work, and we are committed to helping our residents live more active and healthier lifestyles."
“In addition to the individual benefits, the programme's outcomes have broader advantages for the NHS, social care system and local communities. By aligning with the Healthy Barnsley 2030 goals, the initiative empowers adults to maintain healthy weights, increase physical activity levels and enhance mental wellbeing, contributing significantly to preventing health issues such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancers and complications associated with higher weight or obesity.”
The commitment to the Adult Weight Management Programme underscores Barnsley Council's unwavering dedication to fostering a healthier and happier community, ensuring that residents have access to the support they need to lead fulfilling lives.
