20 June 2016 – Media Release
Library goers in Cumberland have the chance to sign up for their own personal telephone health coach as part of a new campaign to get people off the couch. The free month long program is the result of a partnership between Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) and Cumberland Council to spread the Make Healthy Normal message to keen library visitors.
Cumberland libraries will also host a range of health talks throughout July (including sessions for mums & bubs!) to remind patrons of the importance of healthy eating and active living, particularly during the cooler months.
Since 2013, more than 1500 people in western Sydney have signed up for the service. On average, people lose 3.8kgs in weight and 5.1cm off their waist circumference.
“The program is all about getting people active and feeling healthier,” said Cumberland Council General Manager Malcolm Ryan.
“The ultimate goal is to teach people how to make sustainable lifestyle changes. If you are a member of Cumberland’s libraries you now have the option of having qualified health coaches provide motivation, advice and support on healthy eating and physical activity.”
“If you aren’t a member, then just walk into your local library and sign up for a free membership. Then you gain access to books, computers and other resources as well as your own personal health coach.”
WSLHD Centre for Population Health deputy director Christine Newman encouraged all patrons would be encouraged to sign up to the free Get Healthy Information and Coaching service before sitting down with a new novel.
“Libraries are an important community hub and resource to reach the local community – we’re expecting about 370,000 people to come through their doors in July alone,” she said.
“We’re delighted to be partnering with these libraries to help reach members of the community regarding services, like the Get Healthy telephone coaching service, that might help them.”
