Huge obesity rates among borough's primary pupils

More than a quarter of Year 6 school pupils in a borough are obese according to a new report, with the rate more than doubling compared to when they are reception age.

An annual public health report for Halton Borough Council revealed 11.6% of pupils in reception in 2022/23 were classed as obese, with that figure rocketing to 28% by Year 6.

Although the percentage in reception has remained relatively stable over the last 10 years, the report said there was a "noticeable increase" in obesity among Year 6 children.

The figures were higher than both the north west and England averages, with deprivation cited as one of the biggest causes.

The report added the cost of living crisis and food price inflation had "disproportionately affected" low-income families, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Nationally, fewer than half of children meet the recommended physical activity guidelines of at least 60 minutes of moderate physical activity each day, the report said.

It said children from the least affluent families were less likely to meet the guidelines and warned child obesity often serves as an indicator for adult obesity, which can lead to poor health outcomes.

The report added: "Deprivation is the major underlying inequality underpinning differences in obesity levels."

The council's public health team has been promoting school activities to help combat obesity including education about healthy packed lunches and a morning "wake up shake up" routine, where pupils work out to music.

The report praised Windmill Hill Primary School in Runcorn, which was in one of Halton's most deprived areas. It said it worked with local health experts to create a "physically active school environment" and "a culture of healthy eating".

This included healthier packed lunches and encouraging children and parents to participate in physical activity, such as The Daily Mile, a national initiative to promote 15 minutes of exercise such as running or jogging a day for children.

The report added during their last health week, children invited their parents and carers to join them on The Daily Mile before school, adding: "They reported how they especially enjoy when their teachers and parents join in."

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