Six NHS Health Trainers, all of whom are local residents, have qualified in the City & Guilds Level 3 Health Trainer Certificate to help them to further motivate people living in Southend and Canvey to make healthily lifestyle changes.
The NHS Health Trainers took part in a six month programme designed specifically for the health trainer service. The qualification covered motivational interviewing and psychological techniques to help with behaviour change.
The local team of NHS Health Trainers have been appointed by Parkwood Healthcare on behalf of NHS South East Essex. NHS Health Trainers provide free support focussing on healthily eating and exercise, stopping smoking and alcohol awareness. NHS Health Trainers are available to people who want to improve their health and prevent future ill-health. They offer one off sessions or provide ongoing support working towards a set goal.
As part of the NHS Health Trainer service, volunteer health champions can go along to an activity with a person for the first few times to get them started.
Initially the trainers are focusing on St Lukes and Kursaal wards in Southend and Central Ward Canvey and host regular drop-ins at a number of centres and cafes. Local residents can call the service directly for more information or to arrange a appointment 01702 461377
Susie Tyer, NHS Health Trainer Service Coordinator, said: “Lifestyle choices can have a big impact on health and we are here to help individuals make small, low cost and easy steps which can make a world of difference. NHS Health Trainers do not give medical advice, but take the time to sit down and discuss a person’s health and lifestyle to help them identify an area which could be improved.’
Dr Andrea Atherton, Director of Public Health at NHS South East Essex, said: “Health Trainers will play a very important role in helping to improve local health and prevent future illness. This important new scheme will provide the right support and advice to those who want to improve their health.”
If you are interested in supporting other people to develop healthier lifestyles, please contact Susie Tyer on 01702 461377 or email seessexhealthtrainer@parkwoodhealthcare.co.uk
We are currently looking for male volunteers in Southend and male and female volunteers in Canvey Island.
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