What was the issue that required change?
The project team, based in Garscadden Burn Medical Practice in Glasgow, had seen first-hand the negative outcomes when patients fail to maintain a healthy weight or become more active. With several national and local initiatives about healthy eating, it was an opportune time to promote healthy living with the deprived local community of this ‘Deep-end’ Practice.
How did you tackle it?
Patients who might have benefitted were identified by their GP or GPN and met in a room in a local venue – a community gym easily accessible for all local residents (and supporting a local community asset).
Activities and sessions included yoga, mindfulness, bike trips, literature and advice on healthy eating, support on how to stop smoking and improve physical activity, eating well on a budget and practical cookery.
What was the outcome?
The group developed organically, with members getting to know one another, and growing in confidence together and apart. Gradually members began to walk to the group together, or used the gym before and after with each other, providing mutual encouragement.
The group averages six to nine people each session, with an age range of 30-73 and meets weekly.