A new fitness scheme that rewards people who lose weight with money for local community projects will launch in Highbridge this week.
The Pound 4 Pound Community Project will officially start this Thursday (September 5th) at Highbridge’s Morland Hall at 10.30am. It is free to take part, open to all, and runs until December.
For every pound you lose, Morland Hall will receive £1 so the money goes straight back into the community.
The scheme is being supported by ProActive and King Alfred Sports Centre (1610).
“Community Pounds is focused on those communities with the highest health and social need, and who have high prevalence of overweight and obesity levels whereby overweight and obese adults pledge to lose weight over a four-month period as part of an overall community effort,” said Richard Mathews, one of the organisers.
“Total community weight loss – the number of pounds – will be rewarded with equal levels of funding – one pound for each pound lost – with the money to be spent on health promoting projects within their community.”
“The focus is on empowering individuals to make healthy choices whilst giving communities tools to address their own particular needs by putting communities at the heart of public health, improving the health of communities and reducing health inequalities, raising awareness of the need to lead a healthier lifestyle and prevent illness through the promotion of healthy eating and increased physical activity, and supporting people to take responsibility for their own health.”
It is open to all within the Sedgemoor Area, up to a maximum of 100 participants. It is free to enter for over 16s and 25 BMI, subject to stated health exclusions on rules.
Money raised will be used to provide support to each community undertaking the challenge.
“Possible support could include healthy cooking skills training, regular community events, physical activity interventions and online support. Regular drop-in clinics will be provided to support the community members in recording their successful weight loss and provide further advice and support to maintain their changes.”
To take part, attend the sessions running each Thursday, from 10.30-11.30am. until December. For more details, call 07827 647856 or email info@morlandhall.org.uk
