COVID-19
The coronavirus outbreak is a challenge for us all and, for a while, our daily lives may look a little different. Here are some ways we’re helping you to look after your physical and mental health at this time.
Smoking
As emerging evidence shows smokers with coronavirus are 14 times more likely to develop severe respiratory disease, Public Health Dorset is joining health professionals in calling on smokers to #QuitforCovid. To encourage Dorset smokers quit, we’re providing 8-10 weeks of NRT free of charge. Stopping smoking brings immediate health benefits, particularly to the heart and lungs. Start your stop-smoke journey today.
Weight Management
As ever, our team is available to help you find the right support for you, whether this be using apps and other online resources, our unique 1:1 LiveWell Coaching service or a weight loss group.
Weight Loss Groups
People who meet certain eligibility criteria can benefit from a referral to their choice of Slimming World or WW for a kick-start weight loss programme. Slimming World and WW have been running virtual sessions whilst face-to-face ones have not been possible and are making a phased return to a face-to-face offer. Here's a summary of what's on offer at the moment:
Slimming World
Slimming World has returned to face-to-face groups with measures in place to make them 'COVID-secure'. This includes smaller, shorter group sessions and a booking system to help manage this. For groups that have been unable to open, or where people are unable to attend a group (e.g. due to being vulnerable to COVID-19), some virtual groups are still available. See the Slimming World website for more information.
WW
WW continues to run virtual group sessions for all members - known as Workshops - and is also offering Express Check-ins where members can go to be weighed in and talk with their WW Coach. If you are eligible and choose WW for your referral, you will have a choice of whether to take a 16-week digital referral - for online and virtual support only - or a 12-week referral that includes Express Check-ins and virtual support. Our team will be able to tell you more, or visit the WW website where you can find out which venues are open for Express Check-ins.
Both Slimming World and WW are accepting new paying members for their virtual programmes, and in some cases offering a discounted rate. Check out the Slimming World and WW websites for more information.
Slimming groups not for you?
That’s ok! Speak to our friendly team to find out about what else is out there to help you achieve a healthy weight, including our LiveWell Coaching support.
Physical activity
Being active, even if it’s just for a few minutes a day can really help you feel both physically and mentally strong. Even though it may feel harder to be active when you’re at home, there are lots of ways you can reduce the amount of time you spend sitting and increase how much you move. Explore this list of resources and tools highlighting ways and opportunities to be active within the home during isolation and whilst maintaining social distancing. Browse our blogs and articles for tips to keep active at this time.
Our team of Advisors and Coaches are on hand to offer support and guidance. Contact us today to find out how we can support your next step to LiveWell. You can call us on freephone 0800 840 1628.
Five Ways Challenge
The coronavirus outbreak is a challenge for us all and taking care of our own health and wellbeing can be the first thing to slide when we’re focused on taking care of patients, friends, family and loved ones. We’ve created the Five Ways Challenge based on the Five Ways to Wellbeing to showcase ways to look after your mental health and wellbeing. Learn about the Five Ways and join the challenge here.