Obesity

Adult Obesity Strategy

In 2007 PHAST was commissioned by a London PCT to develop a strategy to support the reduction of obesity in the prescribed area, based on the latest evidence-base research and identified 'good-practice.' The project team looked at the current policy context, the recommended structure for assessing obesity and prevalence and trends of obesity across the UK. Social determinants of health in relation to obesity were established and the costs to the NHS estimated. The findings from the mapping exercise were compared with the national evidence-based guidance on obesity3 and 'good-practice' identified from other organisation. This resulted in a gap analysis to inform the implementation plan, which built upon current initiatives and identified key priority areas for action. The three year (2007 – 2010) implementation plan covered both the prevention and management of obesity, in addition to the current service provision. The plan was implemented with a monitoring and evaluation framework to enable the PCT to continually audit the success of the programme and remain on track with topical national initiatives. 

Health Needs Assessment for Maternal Obesity

As part of the proposed phase 2 interventions for Lambeth PCT. A needs assessment for a community based obesity service for pregnant obese women in Lambeth. The full report can be found at www.gsttcharity.org.uk/grants/obesitypreg.pdf.

Developing Children's Obesity Care Pathway(s) – A 'How To' Guide

Childhood obesity is a government priority as highlighted in Choosing Health (2004) and Healthy Weight Healthy Lives (2008) and all Primary Care Trusts (PCT's) have been expected to develop local care pathways to improve the delivery of services for preventing and managing overweight and obese children.

The London Regional Public Health Group identified that additional support was needed to facilitate areas to develop their own care pathways. In 2008 PHAST was commissioned to develop a 'how to' guide to support PCT's in developing their local children's obesity care pathway(s). The 'how to' guide was a practical, simple and concise step-by-step guide that can be used by obesity leads working for PCT's, Local Authorities and/or the local partnerships to develop, implementation and evaluate their local children's obesity care pathways(s).

To see the full report please go to http://www.healthyweight4children.org.uk/resource/view.aspx?RID=76727.

Training in Project Management for Obesity Leads in London

PHAST was commissioned to develop and provide appropriate Project Management training for the obesity and infant feeding leads in London. The course was to use a case study for obesity and infant feeding leads and enable those attending to fully understand and know how to use a variety of project management tool and techniques. The workshop was highly practical and interactive and provided participants with the relevant tools to support the sustainability of the learning objectives.

The success of the project saw the further development of a Business Planning and a Bid Writing workshop dedicated to Obesity Leads in London.

Also see here for information on the recently published Obesity Care Pathway Support Package.