W82Go Physical Activity Programme

W82GO is a 12-month family-based obesity treatment programme for children and teenagers which provides families with health, nutrition, self-esteem, family communication and activity guidance along with support in a safe environment so that families can achieve the healthiest lifestyle for them. The treatment follows best practice and is truly multidisciplinary. Before starting the programme, the child is reviewed by a paediatrician, paediatric dietician, paediatric physiotherapist and paediatric psychologist. The child completes an exercise test to measure fitness and has baseline blood tests which assess their metabolic health and identifies how at risk they are for obesity-related conditions. Following the initial appointment, families are then invited onto the programme.

The W82GO programme is delivered in the evening as a family-based group programme and uses facilities in Temple Street and in a nearby school. Families attend for 6 weeks during the intensive Phase 1 of treatment and then return for booster group sessions at 3-, 6, 9 and 12 months in phase 2 of treatment. The Group programme is delivered to children aged 6-12 years and aged 12-16 years. For children who are not appropriate for group treatment, we provide an outpatient 3-monthly review. This part of the service however has been reduced significantly due to the HSE staff embargo.

The treatment aims to improve nutrition; improve fitness, increase physical activity levels; reduce sedentary/sitting time and improve emotional well-being and family functioning. We deliver educational and practical session to improve health literacy and empower families to make healthy lifestyle choices. Families learn how to shop and to read food labels. They learn how change their attitudes and working together as a unit committed to getting healthier.

Please see www.w82go.ie for more information

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