East Ayrshire help MEND youngsters' health

Published 9 Sep 2010 10:30

East Ayrshire Council’s Recreation Partnership Service has just delivered its first MEND programme for children aged between 5 and 7 years.

This particular programme focuses on a community, family-based approach for 5 - 7 year old children who are above their healthy weight, and for their families. The multi-component programme places emphasis on healthy eating, behaviour change, parenting skills, active play and healthy family lifestyles. The programme is also designed to consider the social, cognitive, emotional and physical growth and development of children at this age.

Depute Chief Executive and Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services, Elizabeth Morton attended the Graduation Ceremony and said: “I was delighted to present certificates to the children who graduated from MEND - their families must be very proud of their achievements. The positive lessons delivered by MEND will have a lasting effect on the wellbeing of these young people and their families and will, I’m sure, inspire others to participate in future programmes. Special thanks go to the Recreation Partnership Section of East Ayrshire Council’s Leisure Development Section and NHS Ayrshire and Arran colleagues for working in partnership and creating such a successful initiative.”

One MEND parent said: “This group was great as it opened your eyes to the amount of rubbish that’s in food. The staff were great and always answered your questions. They were great with the kids and I would recommend this programme to any parent who feels their children could benefit from it. The kids don’t even realise it’s all about food as it’s always such fun.”

Due to the success of previous MEND programmes, the Recreation Partnership Service is running its seventh programme starting in September 2010. All sessions are FREE but spaces are limited. This programme will focus on children aged 7 - 13 years.

For more information on the MEND programme or if you are interested in participating, please contact Lesley Fowler, Recreation Partnership Officer on 01563 576684 or Lesley.fowler@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

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