Enhancing health using effective conversations

Mums and their families will be able to make better food choices for themselves and their babies as a result of a new programme for health professionals who care for pregnant women and babies.

The Government is investing $2.28 million in the new workforce development programme, Health Minister Tony Ryall says.

‘‘[It] will give front-line health workers the latest evidence-based research into how pregnancy and early life events can influence longterm health outcomes,’’ Mr Ryall says.

‘‘Part of the programme will be based on the healthy conversations skills training already used successfully overseas and developed by researchers at the University of Southampton.

‘‘Health workers learn how to open up positive conversations with women about up-to-date healthy weight management, physical activity and nutrition – both during pregnancy and throughout children’s early years.’’

Mr Ryall says this approach gives families the knowledge to help them take control and influence their health.

The programme will be run by Gravida: National Centre for Growth and Development, one of New Zealand’s Centres of Research Excellence that focuses on discovering what early life events affect long-term health.

Its members are drawn from New Zealand’s universities, medical, nutrition and public health schools, and a range of research institutes.

The $2.28m funding for the workforce training programme is initially over three years and the project will be evaluated for potential further roll out.