UNFIT families in Sandwell are being given the chance to shape up with a free 20 week fitness programme for adults and children.

The WellFit scheme is on offer for families with children aged between six and 13-years-old.

Mark Bould, Children’s Physical Activity Development Worker at Sandwell Primary Care Trust said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for families in Sandwell who are looking to become healthier. The value of the scheme is not just about introducing families to a healthier lifestyle, but about preventing long term ill-health.”

Sessions are based around physical activity, food and nutrition, behaviour change, and goal setting. Assisted by funding from the Working Neighbourhoods Fund, the PCT hopes to be run the programme for 18 months.

Mark added: “As the programme will be running for a long period of time, the potential is that over 90 families could benefit from physical activities, help and advice from trained health professionals in the first 15 months alone.”

Oldbury College of Sport, one of the venues for the programme, are keen to help Sandwell families get active.

Stacey Tromans, Partnership Development Manager for South Sandwell schools said: “We are delighted to be involved in WellFit and helping parents, carers and young people discover the benefits of healthy lifestyles.”

If you think your family would benefit from WellFit, call the Healthy Lifestyles Team on 0800 011 4656.