Summary
Strategic Issue 1
Hartlepool’s adult obesity and overweight rates are among the worst in England, reflecting long-term socioeconomic disadvantage
What needs to be done
Address the link between socioeconomic disadvantage and high prevalence of obesity and overweight in Hartlepool.
Provide education to address the knowledge inconsistencies on nutritious food availability and cooking skills. Provide more affordable access to healthy food and affordable access to leisure facilities with opening hours that are inclusive to full-time employees.
Promotion and advertisement of Council facilities such as the Highlight Health Hub and community facilities such as Join the Movement to improve physical activity.
Learning and resources to be shared with stakeholders alongside the Health Weight Action Plan 2024/25.
Strategic Issue 2
Hartlepool’s Reception and Year 6 obesity rates are consistently higher than national averages, with severe obesity peaking in recent years.
Ward-level data shows significant disparities, with areas like Manor House and De Bruce showing much worse outcomes.
What needs to be done
Address the widening inequalities and disparities in childhood obesity prevalence in Hartlepool.
Provide early intervention, particularly in the most deprived wards to prevent long-term health consequences and reduce inequalities.
Develop targeted support for young adults, especially during life transitions.
Promotion and advertisement of Council facilities and community facilities such as Join the Movement to improve physical activity.
Learning and resources to be shared with stakeholders alongside the Health Weight Action Plan 2024/25.
Strategic Issue 3
Adult physical activity levels are below national averages, and inactivity is high.
Fruit and vegetable consumption is low, and fast-food outlet density is high.
What needs to be done
Improving physical activity levels and access to healthy food choices.
Improve access to healthy food, safe spaces for exercise, and community-based physical activity programmes.
Provide information and education to those at high risk to improve health literacy by investing in education and awareness campaigns, especially in communities where residents have minimal qualifications and reduced health literacy. Ensure interventions are tailored and inclusive and meet the needs of vulnerable populations.
The development of the new Highlight Health Hub presents an opportunity for a local service to provide this support to residents.
Support family-based interventions and early years parenting programmes to break the cycle of obesity. Include advice and guidance on family behaviours (such as maternal smoking, early weaning, low breastfeeding) which contribute to childhood obesity.
Promotion and advertisement of Council facilities such as the Highlight Health Hub and community facilities such as Join the Movement to improve physical activity.
Learning and resources to be shared with stakeholders alongside the Health Weight Action Plan 2024/25.