Significant new funding for Beat's obesity work
Beat has received a grant to provide support groups to tackle
obesity - the first funding the organisation has received for its work
in this area.
Health and Social Care charities are to
benefit from an injection of £5.4 million to support local health and
care programmes, Care and Support Minister Norman Lamb announced today.
Through
the Health and Social Care Volunteering Fund, 146 organisations bid for
funding and 13 were chosen for outstanding achievement. They have been
awarded money which will help to support projects in local communities.
The
funding, around £300,000 over three years for Beat’s new Self Help and
Support groups will extend and build upon Beat’s network of 125 groups
across the UK already providing support to those suffering from an
eating disorder and their families. The pilot will be carried out across
the NHS Midlands and Eastern Cluster.
The groups will complement
existing NHS anti-obesity efforts, provide a cost effective service to
the NHS and will be integrated into local services. They will address
over-eaters unhealthy relationship with food and strongly support
dieting and exercise.
By the end of the three year project, 45
groups will be established across the Midlands and East cluster allowing
5,000 people per year to access emotional support in their local
community.
Although not an eating disorder, obesity is often
caused by emotional difficulties or can lead to similar problems. Low
self-esteem, feeling guilty or ashamed, stigmatised and socially
isolated can all be part of the picture.
Susan Ringwood, Chief
Executive of Beat, said: ?We are delighted that the Department of Health
has awarded Beat this HSCVF national grant. We are pleased that the
government is recognising and supporting the link between emotional
support and obesity as we know that providing emotional support is
essential for anyone to make lasting changes to their weight. Our many
years of experience in providing this support have proved that the
inspiration and encouragement of others who have already overcome their
difficulties is vital.”
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Last revised: 27 November 2017
Next review: 27 November 2020