Over 20 representatives from organisations across Blackpool have declared their commitment to promote healthy weight.



The pledges were made at a Healthy Weight Summit organised and lead by Blackpool Council. The aim of the day was to encourage the public and voluntary sectors, schools and private businesses to develop their own healthy weight charters to tackle obesity.

In 2016, Blackpool Council was itself the first local authority in the country to sign a Declaration to commit the organisation to promoting healthy weight in the town.

The event held at the Winter Gardens was attended by diverse organisations including: Living Streets, Blackpool Transport, Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bispham Endowed COE Primary School, St John Vianney Catholic Primary School, Lancashire Constabulary and Blackpool Clinical Commissioning Group.

Speakers, Emma Reed, Deputy Director, Department of Health provided the audience with an informative overview of national child obesity trends and issues, while Dr Arif Rajpura, Blackpool Council’s Director of Public Health outlined the case for action in Blackpool.

Cllr Graham Cain, Cabinet Secretary, said: “Obesity and its associated illnesses such as diabetes is a serious public health concern. We have been on our own journey to achieve the objectives that we set out last year and want to share our knowledge and experience with others.

“I am delighted by the overwhelming support demonstrated by the number of pledges made. The summit has been a tremendous success. There is a real desire to improve and protect the health of our communities. Working in partnership we can all make a difference.”

A year on from signing its own declaration, Blackpool Council has introduced the ‘Healthier Choices Award’ accreditation scheme for cafés, takeaways and other establishments. A new healthy lifestyle and weight programmes for children and families was launched last autumn, new healthier vending machine guidelines were rolled out across the council, and the popular Gulp campaign (Give Up Loving Pop) will be relaunched in Spring 2017.

Jo Hirst, Head Teacher, Bispham Endowed COE Primary School, commented: “We have strong links with Blackpool Council’s Public Health team and were pleased to attend the Healthy Weight Summit. The event has been extremely informative and packed with practical advice.

“This year we are going to be working with our Public Health colleagues to develop healthy lunch box guidance. If we can get children on board at an early age we will help give them a good start in life.”

Blackpool Council is planning to announce additional Healthy Weight Summits in the future.

Cllr Cain, concluded, “I urge more businesses and organisations to get involved, learn more about the issues and health problems caused by obesity, and take action to support healthier lifestyle choices.”

To find out more please contact Nicky Dennison, Senior Public Health Practitioner, on Blackpool 476379.