What is MEND?
MEND is a community, family based programme for overweight and obese children aged seven to13 years old and their families. The multi-disciplinary programme places equal emphasis on Mind, Exercise and Nutrition Do It! (MEND)
It combines all the elements known to be vital in treating and preventing overweight or obesity in children, including family involvement, practical education in nutrition, increasing physical activity and behavioural change. With an emphasis on practical fun learning, the programme is designed to deliver sustained improvements in families’ diets, fitness levels and overall health.
It is important to note MEND is not a diet and expressly does not encourage rapid weight loss. Rather, it is about empowerment, putting the child at the centre of a range of ways to make life changes in terms of physical activity, food, self confidence and personal development. By following the MEND principles, participants will lose weight naturally and thereby build a foundation for healthy living – for life.
Programme Format
The MEND programme is a ten week course. Children must attend for two hours twice a week with a parent or carer. Sessions feature an hour of discussion alternating between mind (behaviour change) and nutrition topics. The children enjoy fun land or water based activity at every session.
Local Programmes
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Canterbury
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Dover
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Faversham
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Herne Bay
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Margate
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Sittingbourne
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Sheerness
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Whitstable.
More information can be found on the MEND website or by downloading the M brochure or poster.
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