Time running out for Greater Manchester residents, to have say on children’s healthy living

39% of children living in Greater Manchester are overweight or obese by the time they get to year six (aged 10-11 years old) and 22% by reception (aged 4 or 5)

Greater Manchester residents are being encouraged to share their thoughts around children’s healthy living and the causes of childhood obesity.

‘The Real Picture’ survey commissioned by NHS Greater Manchester (NHS GM) launched last month (December) and is already revealing some insightful trends across the region’s ten boroughs.

According to survey responses so far, two in ten (21%) Greater Manchester residents think reducing the rate of childhood obesity should be the top priority for the region’s local authorities and health services.

And a further 57% believe it should be a high priority, meaning that eight in ten Greater Manchester residents see the issue as key area of focus for 2024.

With the survey open for responses until the end of the month, NHS GM is keen to hear from Greater Manchester residents, far and wide, on whether they agree with the existing sentiments or instead, want to share their views before the end of the consultation on 31 January.

39% of children living in Greater Manchester are overweight or obese by the time they get to year six (aged 10-11 years old) and 22% by reception (aged 4 or 5).

Jane Pilkington, Director of Population Health at NHS Greater Manchester, said: “It’s no surprise that Greater Manchester locals see childhood obesity levels as a high priority health focus for 2024; a child who is classed as obese is much more likely to be an obese adult and suffer long-term poor health as a result.”

“We want to understand the contributing factors to childhood obesity from the perspective of Greater Manchester residents. The survey is still ongoing and it’s imperative we build the real picture. With easy access to fast food, the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, and the saturation of junk-food ads, it’s important we work out what’s really impacting children’s healthy weight across the city-region.”

The survey has also highlighted a high number (79.5%) of Greater Manchester residents that believe childhood obesity is a difficult issue to tackle, with easy access to unhealthy food and drink choices, screen time that encourages sedentary and inactive lifestyles, and the high cost of healthy food all cited as key contributors to the rise.

Two thirds (67%) of residents are also not aware of any activities within Greater Manchester that support families, children, and young people to live healthier lives, with a further 14% being unsure.

Jane adds: “The data we’ve captured so far is so important to the campaign and we thank those who have already taken time to participate. We need to continue to build a rich, cross section of views from residents from all backgrounds and communities to ensure we uncover the real picture. All residents are warmly invited to have their say, so that we can ensure future action and interventions are based on the needs and insights derived from communities."

The survey will be used to inform a wide range of partners within the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership including NHS GM, local authorities, the voluntary sector and charities, health professionals and beyond - engaging town planners, sports coaches, teachers, retailers, and many others – to help identify ideas, initiatives and interventions that resonate with residents and children and ensure a lasting and positive change towards happier, healthier lives.

For more information: www.therealpicture.org