Oldham residents urged to stick to New Year's Resolutions

Councillor Zahid Chauhan, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care

Oldham Council is encouraging residents to stick to their New Year's resolutions with its annual New Year, New You campaign.

Around 57 per cent of the country will make a healthy New Years’ resolution according to Public Health England’s research – and the council is supporting these new choices.

In support of Public Health England’s ‘How Are You’ program, local authorities are pushing the people of Oldham to complete a free, online quiz about their lifestyle.

The quiz analyses participants’ choices to provide a health score followed by tailored advice on how to improve their wellbeing.

Throughout January and as part of the New Year, New You campaign, the council will be giving residents useful tips on how to better their physical health.

These include advice on physical activity, diet and how to give up smoking.

Cutting back on sugar is one of the tips within the dieting advice that aligns with this year’s Change4Life campaign.

The scheme is advising parents to “make a swap when you shop”, which could reduce the amount of sugar children eat from some products by half.

Oldham Library will also host their annual Healthy New Year Festival to help residents kick off their 2019 with a fresh, healthy start.

The week-long showcase of events take place from Monday 14 to Saturday 19 January.

Visitors can take part in free exercise classes, enjoy health activities and receive tips and advice on health and wellbeing from on-hand experts.

Councillor Zahid Chauhan, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care said: “It’s great to start the New Year with a resolution but they can so easily be broken.

“We are here to provide support to help you continue with your commitment to making healthier choices.

“By making a few small changes like moving more, drinking less and swapping sugary drinks and snacks, you can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing,” he added.