Health trainers spread healthy living message in Ashington

Posted by The Journal on Aug 6, 09 12:13 PM in News

New health trainers have been recruited to spread the healthy living message to local people.

Northumberland Care Trust is working to improve the wellbeing of people living in south east Northumberland and along the coastal strip up to Amble.

Liam Ford and Stuart Wilkinson are the first male health trainers for the county and are encouraging local people to make healthier lifestyle choices.

Meanwhile, Stephen Hutchinson is a new health trainer who is using football as a way of engaging local men and dads. This post is a new initiative funded by New Football Pools, NHS North East and Newcastle United Foundation.

Stephen will work closely with Hirst Welfare Centre in Ashington, and this initiative will be launched later this summer.

Ashington has its own football heritage as former Newcastle United player Jackie Milburn hails from the town along with Charlton brothers Bobby and Jack.

Jean Baird, health improvement manager for Northumberland Care Trust, said: "Traditionally people living in Northumberland are less inclined to visit the doctor or to take an interest in living a healthy lifestyle.

"We understand how hard it is for people to start making the changes they may want to make in their lives and we can offer the motivation and support they need to achieve their health goals."

Health trainers can help people to implement the changes they wish to make to improve their health.

"They can do this on a one-to-one basis for up to 12 sessions.

The sessions can cover eating a healthy, balanced diet, increasing physical activity and exercise, stopping smoking and reducing alcohol intake .

Health trainers can also help clients plan out healthy lifestyle changes and achieve them.

Liam said: "I am excited to be in a position where I can help improve the health of local people by assisting them in achieving their goals, so they can reap the rewards to their health and wellbeing."

Stuart said: "We are hoping to engage with local people who are traditionally harder to reach."

If you would like to contact a health trainer call Northumberland Care Trust on (01670) 784198 to find out what help you can get.

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