Healthy living support offered to residents

The strategy will offer support to maintain a healthy weight

A 10-year strategy addressing healthy living in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has been published, the council said.

Cornwall Council said its public health team published its healthier weight strategy to address factors which influence health, including food and the environment.

Andy Virr, cabinet lead for adult social care and health, said: "Obesity is a complex disease which continues to impact much of the population. We know that it is about more than just eating less and moving more."

The council said the main aims of the strategy were to offer support and to reduce the inequalities associated with weight.

'Inherent bias'

"To address the issue, we must look at the systems around us that have influence such as the media, access to physical activity and food production," said Mr Virr.

"It has been identified that there are 108 factors that contribute to people living with a higher than average body weight.

"It will help us to focus work on these systems, rather than individuals."

Eunan O'Neill, interim director of public health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said there was an "inherent bias" around people who were overweight and obese.

"We are committed to embedding a compassionate approach and reducing weight stigma," he added.

"We want the next generation to grow up with choices around their health, wellbeing and happiness."