A health and fitness scheme run by Sandwell Primary Care Trust (PCT) has been hailed a resounding success and is ahead of the game as far as the government’s recent plans to beat obesity are concerned.

The ‘Walk to Beijing’ Scheme, which was started in 2006 with this year’s Beijing Olympics in mind, has now signed up well over it’s  target of 3000 people aiming to improve their general health.

The scheme involves Sandwell adults signing up to a health check and assessment, which provides them with a series of targets to achieve as far as their activity levels, weight and blood pressure are concerned.  Those taking part are monitored and given a step counter to assess their day to day activity and those who achieve their set targets are rewarded with shopping vouchers.  In last month’s government announcement on obesity, incentives were recommended as a way of helping keep people on the right track.

Lindsay Manford, scheme organiser explained: “We are delighted to have beaten the 3000 target set by the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund (NRF) who initially funded the scheme.  We now have NHS funding for it to continue indefinitely.”

Dene Stevens, walking and cycling for health officer with the PCT, added: “Currently those achieving the Gold Standard are rewarded with up to £40 of shopping vouchers.  This is a bargain considering it is calculated that people whose health and fitness is affected by lack of activity cost the nation about £200 a year.”

Visit the Physical Activity in Sandwell (PhActS) website for more information about the 'Walk to Beijing' Scheme.