SMS:WhyWeight is a six-week programme of online group sessions for children and young people aged 9-17 which we deliver in partnership with NHS Forth Valley.
The healthy weight programme is aimed at increasing the confidence and self-esteem of children and young people so that they feel able to take control of their own health and wellbeing and take steps towards positive behavioural changes. Two SMS:WhyWeight programmes are available, one for children aged 9 to 12 and one for young people aged 13 to 17 years.
Delivered in partnership with NHS Forth Valley
The programme emerged from the issues facing NHS Forth Valley and supports ‘Scotland’s diet and healthy weight delivery plan’, published by the Scottish Government, which outlines how the government will reach its goal of halving childhood obesity in Scotland by 2030. Currently 29% of children in Scotland are at risk of being overweight, and 9 out of 10 people in the country believe that obesity is a serious issue.
A healthy weight programme
The six-week healthy weight programme is based on our existing SMS:CONNECT programme for children and young people living with health conditions. For the SMS:WhyWeight programme, the content reflects the challenges faced by the children and young people taking part, with a focus on creating positive routines and managing stress and anxiety.
Take part, it’s a brilliant experience. You meet new people and always feel included.
Feedback from young person
The difference in her is incredible. She looks forward to it each week. I don’t have to prompt her at all. Sheloved getting the pens that came through in the post and is using them now to do some mindfulness drawing. Her eating is much improved, her attitude has improved, her fitness, I could go on. I honestly hope you guys will carry this on. She doesn’t tell me much about it but that’s okay – it’s her thing. Whatever you’re doing is working.
Feedback from parent
Interested?
We would love to hear from you if you are interested in finding out more about SMS:WhyWeight. To find out more please contact the SMS team:
- By email: sms@childrenshealthscotland.org
- By phone: Michelle Wilson 0748 5462 436, or Eilidh Findlay 0730 5048 649
