RESIDENTS in Whittlesey are being encouraged to sign up for a health improvement programme.

CHIP (Community Health Improvement Programme) gives tips and advice on life style and healthy eating to help improve general health.

It runs for eight sessions with participants attending an evening session once a fortnight with dieticians and fitness professionals.

Those taking part work together in small groups to score team points while having fun learning about healthy life styles. Friends and family are also welcome to join in.

People who would like to take part in the programme must be aged 18-65 and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of more than 28 with a related health problem or a BMI of more than 30.

Health Improvement Advisor at NHS Cambridgeshire, Mary-Clare Smiley, said: “During the winter months it is especially important that people keep themselves active to work off those extra calories, as well as having healthy options to hand.

“If however, they feel that they would benefit from more help and advice we are challenging patients to sign up for our local CHIP programme for ideas on how to make small but healthy changes that lead to health benefits and weight loss.

“CHIP is a relaxed and fun programme that shows how small life changes can make a difference. It is an ideal opportunity for people who are interested in changing their life style and who enjoy being part of a group.”

To find out more contact your GP or call 01353 865409.