New innovative weight management programme for adults with learning disabilities
Adults with learning disabilities in Royal Greenwich will be able to access a specialist weight management programme thanks to the launch of a brand-new service from the council, tailored specifically to their needs.
The service will allow participants to access specialist weight management experts and customised content for people with learning disabilities, rather than using a mainstream weight management service. The service will also develop over time through continuous review and feedback from its participants.
The Royal Borough of Greenwich in collaboration with the London Boroughs of Bexley and Bromley will offer free, evidence-based sessions over 12 weeks, taking place in local community venues across the three boroughs.
Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care and Borough of Sanctuary said:
“Healthcare inequalities are unfair and avoidable differences in health across the population, and between different groups within society. People with learning disabilities, for example, are at significantly higher risk of being obese compared to the general population. This risk, in turn, increases the likelihood of a range of health problems.”
“We are committed to ensuring that people's health supports them in living their best life, and key to this is giving people greater control over managing their health and wellbeing. By providing flexible services that meet individual needs, we are able to support residents with learning disabilities to reach and maintain a healthy weight, all while fostering healthy habits that can last a lifetime.”
The new and innovative ‘Enable Learning Disabilities Weight Management Service’ aims to reduce health inequalities by promoting healthier lifestyles and providing supportive, accessible, and inclusive environments for participants to achieve their weight management goals and improve overall wellbeing.
Launching today, the programme will focus on sustainable lifestyle changes, including nutrition education and physical activity, to help participants work towards a healthier weight in a way that is tailored to them.
This programme has been commissioned by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, and supported by the London Boroughs of Bromley and Bexley, with all three authorities recognising the gap in provision and the need for targeted intervention. We are listening to residents' concerns about being able to access certain services in one borough and not in another, and this is a positive step towards ensuring a joined-up approach.
The initiative focuses on long-term, sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes. Participants will receive tailored support to:
- Achieve and maintain a healthier weight.
- Improve understanding of nutrition and healthier eating habits.
- Increase physical activity in a way that suits abilities and preferences.
- Access ongoing support in a safe, inclusive, and engaging setting.
To access the programme, participants must:
- be over the age of 18
- have a mild or moderate learning disability
- want to achieve a healthy weight.
The Royal Borough of Greenwich has commissioned Enable to help run this new service. Enable is a not-for-profit organisation, working in partnership with councils, charities and other organisations to deliver health, leisure and community services and events that enrich people’s lives. Enable has a strong track record in delivering impactful initiatives that break down barriers to better health.
Anyone who is eligible can be referred in a number of different ways. You can self-refer, or you can speak to your GP or another health professional who can refer directly, as can a carer or other support worker.
Visit enablelc.org/ld-weight-management for more information, or email: bbgweightmanagement@enablelc.org.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in tackling health inequalities and supporting adults with learning disabilities in Royal Greenwich, Bexley, and Bromley to lead healthier, happier lives.