Confidential health advisory service set for official launch

Bridlington is the first town in the country to open such a facility, which is aimed at improving health and fitness.

The shop in Quay Road offers a confidential drop-in service for anyone requiring advice or support around health needs, including emotional wellbeing, physical activity, weight management, healthy eating, smoking cessation, alcohol awareness, substance use and sexual health.

More than 400 people have used the service since it opened just over a month ago.

Natalie Belt, health trainer service manager for Humber NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are overwhelmed by the demand for our support in this area and the range of health needs. Since opening, we have begun to establish trends and identify in which areas most people need support.

“Improving the behaviour of individuals is key to getting them to make positive lifestyle changes and by having help available on their door step makes it even easier for residents to access services.”

She added: “Bridlington needed an NHS presence on its high street. There are high levels of coronary disease, COPD, obesity and smoking as well as alcohol and substance misuse and many residents do not know how to get help to change their lifestyle.

“Every day within the East Riding we have adults being diagnosed with long-term conditions, many which are preventable.

“Through positive lifestyle interventions we can help people lead healthier lives and reduce the number of patients needing further medical intervention or support. What we are currently finding is that by the time an individual is diagnosed, it’s often too late to make a difference and this is where we believe we can play a part.”

Health trainers have been working in the East Riding since October 2007 and have supported more than 8,500 adults.

In Bridlington they have worked with local industry and run a pilot project focused on improving the health of fishermen.

They are also recruiting local people to work as volunteer health champions.