An Evaluation of a Community-Based Programme Aiming to Reduce Inactivity and Improve Health and Morale in Overweight and Obese School-Age Children

Conducted by: Dr Kiara Lewis, September 2006 - September 2010

Co-researchers and affiliations: Claire Fraser and Martin Manby from Nationwide Children’s Centre

Funding: Kirklees Council, Kirklees NHS Primary Care Trust, the Big Lottery Fund and
Sport England

Researchers undertook an evaluation of a 48 week physical activity and nutritional education programme for overweight/obese school-age children, using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Nearly 60% of participants were still actively enrolled after two years and a further 15% had successfully completed their programme prior to exiting the scheme. The programme was particularly successful in targeting children with very serious weight problems. 84% of programme participants were over the 98th centile. A range of evidence highlighted improvements in children’s morale and self-esteem, which increased in line with session attendance. Whilst some improvements in body mass index and engagement in a range of physical activities were noted, the project outcomes highlighted difficulties in evaluating a complex community-based intervention. Children, parents and health professionals highlighted a range of benefits from attending the programme, although more intensive services are likely to be needed for the most seriously obese children and for those families resisting intervention.