There are a range of different support agencies and networks in contributing to the needs of the child. When looking at childhood obesity overall the Government has set out its plans in Healthy Lives, Healthy People using the public health White Paper which aims to protect and improve the public’s health, improving the health of the poorest, fastest. It has made a strong commitment to improving maternal health and to taking better care of children’s health as well as reducing the prevalence of overweight and obesity. The Childhood Obesity National Support Team (CONST) has supported local areas in addressing unhealthy behaviours that lead to excess weight gain during pregnancy, in children and young people, and in their families. Through visits and follow-up support, the CONST has helped to steer local areas towards actions that improve the quality of interventions on the front line and create environments that support individuals and families to lead healthier lives. Working with local midwives, health visitors, early year’s professionals, schools, voluntary providers, environmental planners, commissioners and strategists has enabled the CONST to gather valuable intelligence and insights.
- The Childhood Obesity National Support Team (CONST) was established in 2007, with the primary purpose to improve the quality and impact of healthy weight delivery systems and interventions.
- The public health White Paper, Healthy Lives, Healthy People (November 2010), sets out a new approach to public health, including the establishment of Public Health.
Achieving any change will require a stronger focus on public health and the prevention of disease, working in partnership with services to treat ill health. It requires a greater focus on evidence-based approaches to drive behaviour change and requires action on national, local and individual levels.
Each area will have a range of support workers or agencies which can aid children in a range of different medical conditions. It is important to seek the help when it is needed for support. Tackling overweight and obesity is a population issue. There is a need to engage with and identify the positive contribution that can be made by everyone across the local community.
Childhood Obesity 