A programme aimed at helping overweight children manage their weight is coming to Sutton. The MEND Programme (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition... Do it!) is part of a national initiative offering free healthy lifestyle courses for overweight 7 to 13 year olds and their families in more than 250 locations across the UK.

Ashfield District Council is working in partnership with Lammas Leisure Centre to run the course, which starts on Wednesday 29th April at the new Lammas Leisure Centre and runs Wednesday and Friday from 5pm to 7pm. Families take part in fun two-hour sessions, twice a week for ten weeks. The Programme helps them improve their eating and exercise habits, thereby improving children’s fitness, physical activity levels, nutrition and self-esteem. Thanks to funding from Big Lottery Fund, twelve places on the course worth up to £400 per child are being offered to families completely free of charge on a first come first served basis.

The MEND Programme is the UK’s largest healthy lifestyle programme for overweight children and their parents. Rather than focusing on weight loss, the Programme uses a practical interactive learning approach to teach children and parents weight management skills. This includes inspiring families to adopt a healthier lifestyle and enjoy preparing and eating healthy foods as well as reading food labels and healthy shopping on a budget. There are also simple but exciting sessions which focus on making exercise fun again – especially for children who are not fans of traditional school sports.

Craig Simpson, MEND Programme Manager at Sutton Centre says, "The MEND Programme can really change families’ lives. We offer a friendly relaxed atmosphere to encourage children to give new things a go and show parents how they can be supportive and involve the whole family in making healthier choices and following an active lifestyle. Children become healthier and fitter while their self esteem and confidence increase greatly. We very much hope families will take up the chance to improve their health with this fantastic free course."

Places on the MEND Programme are being giving away places on a first come, first served basis. Families interested in participating should contact Craig on 01623 457233 or visit www.mendprogramme.org and click on ‘Join a MEND Programme’. Please note a parent or carer must accompany each child to every session.