New service aims to make York healthier

A SERVICE has been launched in a Yorkshire city to tackle some of the biggest health risks posed in modern society.

The YorWellbeing scheme is led by York Council’s public health team and aims to streamline services to give the city’s residents access to advice and support on healthy living.

The new service, which was launched yesterday, will provide information on factors that have key influences on people’s lifestyles including healthy eating, promoting exercise and cutting down on drinking alcohol and smoking.

The council’s executive member for health and adult social care, Coun Carol Runciman, said: “The service will see YorWellbeing officers in communities across the city to help reduce health inequalities and encourage everyone to live healthier, happier and more active lives.”

Residents are being encouraged to take a free online health check, which aims to tell people about their risk of preventable health conditions. Those found to be at increased risk following the online assessment will be pointed to advice and, if eligible, will be offered a one-to-one appointment to help them live a healthier life.

Support that is also being offered as part of the initiative includes a community health champions scheme, stop-smoking sessions and a falls prevention service.

The health checks are available at www.yorwellbeing.org, although people who do not have internet access can call the YorWellbeing team on 01904 553377.