Two thirds of Telford adults are overweight

One in four children aged four or five and a third of children aged 10 or 11 are also heavier than they should be.

The figures are revealed in the borough’s Public Health Annual Report, which looks at key health issues that need tackling.

It reveals that three out of 10 adults in the area are physically inactive, leading to reduced life expectancy, high blood pressure, bone and joint problems and low self-esteem.

Liz Noakes, statutory director of public health and report author, said: “The scale of the problem is huge, and there is no one cause nor one solution to the issue of excess weight.

“Actions need to be taken at all levels – nationally by government, locally with the council working with employers, the NHS and partner organisations and by people living in their families and communities. The council cannot tackle this issue alone – everyone needs to do their bit.”

The report echoes the problem nationally with about two in three adults in England now considered to be overweight or obese.

Ms Noakes said: “Technological changes have meant that we are less active. We can shop, stay in touch, and be entertained from our sofa – workplaces are increasingly more sedentary as well.

Individuals are finding it harder to eat healthily as the availability of calorie-rich meals is more widespread. We are also eating out more where portion sizes tend to be larger.”

The Public Health Annual Report is set to be endorsed by the health and wellbeing board and cabinet on Wednesday.

The report summarises the rise and fall of other local health indicators. It says teenage conception rates and early deaths from preventable causes have improved to match the national average, but levels of tooth decay in children have increased to above the national average.

Arnold England, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Many people’s lives are so busy they just don’t have the time to think about their own health. Think about the small changes you could make, and what opportunities you have to lose weight.

“For example, we have many green spaces in Telford & Wrekin, our award-winning town park, the outdoor gyms, excellent leisure centres and a 50-mile walking trail that connects footpaths and rights of way across the borough green trials and footpaths.

“If you just don’t know where to start or need a little support get in contact with our Healthy Lifestyles team.”

Call the team on 01952 382582 or email healthylifestyles@telford.gov.uk.