March’s A Better Medway Newsletter

Since we celebrate Mother’s Day and International Women’s Day in March, this month’s newsletter kicks off with a look at some of the ways we help women stay active and healthy in Medway.

Lots of women don’t exercise because they fear being judged – either about how they look or that their fitness isn’t good enough. To help women feel more at ease, Hoo Sports Centre runs weekly women only swimming sessions as part of the This Girl Can campaign.

In 2018 Medway’s GPs referred more than 1,300 women to our weight management programmes, Healthy Way and Tipping the Balance, including Julie Bennett from Strood. Julie says one of the best things about losing three stone as a result of using our services was enjoying some new clothes.

We want all of Medway’s new mums to enjoy the amazing benefits of breastfeeding but we know it can be tough at first. Beside You is a fantastic peer support service that includes breastfeeding groups, 1-2-1 support, a helpline and an app.

Looking after a baby isn’t just about feeding, it’s about all the things families do to nurture a little one’s development. Launched with Medway NHS Foundation Trust and Medway Community Health, the Grow my Brain campaign promotes simple messages about how to help a baby’s brain grow. Created by Medway midwife’s Jo and Trude, it’s rooted in their hands-on experience of supporting Medway’s women and their families.

Busy mum, cherished nan or a young women about to embark on her career; we want women living here to thrive whatever they are doing and whatever stage of life they are at.

Stride (or cycle!) into spring

David Palmer is a big believer in the benefits of walking and cycling.

Newly appointed as our Health Improvement and Active Travel Co-ordinator, David met his partner at a cycling group and cycling helped him stay active after injuring his ankle seriously when he was a boy. It’s no surprise then that David really enjoys his new role,

“I love helping people to become more active and enjoy the outdoors. Going for a walk or cycle is a great way to discover new places and hidden gems, they are on our doorsteps but too often we just don’t know they are there.”

A personal highlight for David has been training to become a Nordic walking instructor. He added:

“Nordic walking is a great way to exercise. The poles help you to propel yourself forward as you walk, so it becomes a whole body exercise that can be done by anybody, anywhere.”

Our cycling scheme offers a variety of different length bike rides throughout the week. Guided walks run five days a week across Medway. They are suitable for different abilities and dogs are welcome.  Signing up is easy, visit our website for details. You can register your interest in our six-week Nordic walking programme by phoning 01634 333720 or emailing [email protected]. The programme launches in June 2019 and welcomes beginners.

A Better Medway gets out and about

Brompton Barracks

Hundreds of soldiers and their families took part in an afternoon of fitness challenges, cooking demonstrations and health seminars at our annual Brompton Barracks health fair. Young people from the Gillingham Football Club School also joined in the fun and learnt about health and wellbeing.

Great Lines Park Run

Our Sugar Smart team were at the Great Lines Park Run this month to raise awareness of the health benefits of cutting back on sugar. Runners were invited to pick up a free family support pack full of tasty recipes and tips.

Medway NHS Foundation Trust

Every fortnight the A Better Medway team visits Medway Maritime Hospital to let visitors and staff know about our stop smoking services. We’re there Wednesdays between 9am and midday.

Join our new Facebook group

If you’re attending one of our weight management programmes, have been to one in the past or are about to start one, you’re eligible to join our HealthyWay Facebook group. Visit the Healthy Way Facebook page for details or search for HealthyWay in groups. This friendly group offers hints and tips on eating a healthy diet and enjoying a healthier lifestyle as well as peer support and motivation.

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