Responding to a government announcement of £100 million extra funding for healthy weight programmes, including £35 million allocated to councils, Cllr Ian Hudspeth, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, said:
“This new funding is a positive step and a reflection of our shared commitment with government to helping people of all ages achieve a healthier weight, by investing in prevention.
“Tackling obesity and helping their communities live healthier and more active lives is a top priority for councils. Sadly, the impact of unhealthy weight has been brought into sharper focus by the coronavirus pandemic.
“This extra investment in councils’ weight management services is recognition of their excellent work to date, allowing them to reach out and support more people. It is good this funding will be targeted, so that those areas most in need will receive the greatest support.
“Councils are keen to work in partnership with government and the NHS in building the case for weight management services. Sustainable, long-term funding is also needed to provide healthy lifestyle services, which will help reduce health inequalities and obesity rates.”
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