A six-month community project backed by Heart Research UK aims to support residents at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, offering nutrition guidance, physical activity sessions, and personalised coaching.
A group of Knowsley residents are participating in a new six-month program aimed at supporting adults aged 31 to 75 who are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The program, which is funded by Heart Research UK and delivered locally by Activate Body and Mind, focuses on a "well-being triangle" consisting of physical health, mental health, and nutrition. The initiative is located at the Huyton A.B.C. boxing gym and provides a holistic approach to improving heart health. Janine Lee, who leads Activate Body and Mind, explains that the program focuses on creating a comfortable, social environment where participants can feel they are making a difference.
The delivery team consists of a nutritionist, a personal trainer, and a psychotherapist, all providing support to participants. According to Lee, the program's primary focus is on asking participants how they feel rather than focusing on metrics like body weight. Participants are offered group sessions that cover health, nutrition workshops, and physical activity, which can be completed in-person or online.
Additionally, every participant receives two one-to-one coaching sessions to help them set and achieve personal goals. For program participant Jenna, the practical advice on diet, which is neither "stupid" nor "unachievable," has been particularly helpful. Another participant, Phil, notes that the program is not about calorie counting, but about becoming more aware of their daily choices. He believes that the most significant benefit has been the positive impact on his mental well-being and his ability to feel better about himself.
The program is a direct response to health data highlighting Knowsley's significant challenges regarding heart health. The borough has one of the highest premature mortality rates for cardiovascular disease in the UK and is listed as the 13th highest among 324 districts.
Additionally, life expectancy in the area is below the national average, with higher emergency hospital admissions linked to heart disease. Kieran Flanagan of Activate Body and Mind emphasizes that the program aims to help people feel more positive about themselves, make lasting lifestyle changes, and reduce the risk of heart disease and conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Organizers hope that the sense of belonging fostered through the group sessions will help residents sustain healthy habits long after the six-month program concludes.
