Walking for Health is England's largest network of health walks with over 375 active schemes, helping people across the country lead a more active lifestyle. They've done this with great success for over 14 years, improving the mental and physical well-being of thousands of people.

Richmondshire District Council has launched a new supported weight management service, 'choose to lose'.  This is free to anyone who lives or works in Richmondhsire and are aged over 18 with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 25 or above. They accept referrals directly from patients without having to see the GP. 

The service will support families remotely over a period of 6-9 months to make small changes to their lifestyles by setting goals around food and physical activity, and will signpost to physical activity opportunities in their local area. It will also help families to recognise and address the wider determinants of health and lifestyle, and will signpost families to other useful services, support and information such as around mental health and wellbeing, food insecurity/cost of living, sleep, etc.

The service is for children and young people aged 4-19 years (up to aged 25 years for those with SEND) and their families who need some help with healthy weight and lifestyles. Families must be resident or registered with a GP practice or school in North Yorkshire (those who are not will be assessed on a case-by-case basis for suitability for referral).

Families can self-refer to the service by emailing active.health@brimhamsactive.co.uk or by telephoning Brimhams Active on 01423 556106.