Skip to content 
Search

Latest Stories

Leicester health plan for south Asians ‘a success’

Since the development of the 12-week Healthy Goals programme in 2018, the evidence-based lifestyle initiative has helped 84 individuals to introduce physical activity into their daily routines

Leicester health plan for south Asians ‘a success’

AN EDUCATION and physical activity programme targeted towards people suffering with type 2 diabetes among south Asians in Leicester has proved to have a “lasting impact” on long-term health of participants.

Since the development of the 12-week Healthy Goals programme in 2018, the evidence-based lifestyle initiative has helped 84 individuals to introduce physical activity into their daily routines.


Data from the Centre for Ethnic Health Research showed that nearly 90 per cent of participants who completed the Healthy Goals programme reported being more physically active after the completion of the course and 68 per cent lost weight.

The figures also revealed that 87 per cent of participants reported sitting much less than at the start of the programme, while 50 per cent of those who have completed the course have seen a reduction in the size of their waist.

Following the completion of the course, one participant said: “I have become more aware and alert to my cooking style, including the amount of oil and ghee I use. I now opt for more fresh vegetables in my cooking.”

Another added, “I want to be healthier for me and my family, so I take more time in order to ensure that I make the right decisions.”

The Centre for Ethnic Health Research and the Leicester Diabetes Centre (LDC) worked with Cities Changing Diabetes, Leicester City in the Community (LCitC) to deliver “Healthy Goals”.

“The latest research is a testament to the profound impact of Healthy Goals on the wellbeing of our participants,” said Sunny Rohit, community engagement officer at the Centre for Ethnic Health Research.

“Witnessing 100 per cent adoption of healthier diets post-programme is not just a statistic, it is a reflection of our commitment to cultivating lasting change.”

He added: “Healthy Goals goes beyond the conventional. It’s a platform for active discussions and physical activity sessions that resonate with Leicester’s south Asian communities.”

There is evidence to suggest that south Asians are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and that they typically do not engage with traditional health promotion programmes locally as they are not culturally appropriate or not relevant to them.

The Centre for Ethnic Health Research aims to reduce ethnic health inequalities by supporting individuals and organisations to involve and understand the needs of diverse and under-served communities when planning and undertaking research and healthcare delivery.

Professor Kamlesh Khunti, co-director of LDC and director of the Centre for Ethnic Health Research, said: “These outcomes speak volumes about the programme’s efficacy in promoting holistic health changes among participants.

“The risk of type 2 diabetes is a looming concern for south Asian communities, and addressing it requires innovative and culturally sensitive approaches. Physical activity is a cornerstone of diabetes prevention, and tailored programmes such as Healthy Goals are vital.”

More For You

Southport

Floral tributes left by members of the public are seen following the fatal knife attack on three young girls in July in Southport.

Reuters

Public inquiry begins into Southport girls' murders

A PUBLIC inquiry begins on Tuesday into the murders of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in Southport last year.

The inquiry will examine whether the attack could have been prevented and how future incidents might be avoided.

Keep ReadingShow less
Starmer-Getty

Starmer is facing a Labour backbench revolt over plans to reform special needs support in schools without guaranteeing existing legal rights. (Photo: Getty Images)

Getty Images)

Starmer faces Labour pushback over SEND reform plans

KEIR STARMER is facing a backlash from Labour MPs over plans to reform special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support, after ministers stopped short of guaranteeing legal rights for parents.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said the government was committed to reforming the current system, which costs £12 billion a year. However, she did not confirm if legally enforceable rights, such as those provided by education, health and care plans (EHCPs), would remain.

Keep ReadingShow less
Heavy rain and thunderstorms hit London

Londoners faced a wet and stormy start to the week

iStock

Heavy rain and thunderstorms hit London before 30°C heatwave

Key points

  • Heavy rain and thunderstorms drench London at the start of the week
  • Temperatures set to rise with highs of 31°C expected by Thursday
  • Heatwave could be declared by Friday if warm conditions persist
  • Night-time temperatures to remain high, increasing discomfort
  • UV and pollen levels forecast to be very high across the south

Thunderstorms soak London before summer heat returns

Londoners faced a wet and stormy start to the week as heavy rain and overnight thunderstorms swept through the capital. Monday morning saw widespread downpours, leaving commuters reaching for umbrellas and Wimbledon ticket hopefuls queuing in ponchos.

The unsettled conditions followed a burst of thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon and continued into the early hours of Monday, prompting caution across the city. The Met Office has not issued a formal weather warning for thunderstorms, but conditions remain unstable.

Keep ReadingShow less
National Trust sets vision to heal
nature and engage more Asians

Lisa Nandy, Steve Reed, René Olivieri and Hilary McGrady at a National Trust event marking its 130th anniversary

National Trust sets vision to heal nature and engage more Asians

THE National Trust, which is seeking to broaden its appeal to British Asians, is marking its 130th anniversary with a renewed commitment to restoring nature and widening access under a 10-year strategy.

Its director-general, Hilary McGrady, also aims to inspire more people to get involved in caring for the country’s natural resources.

Keep ReadingShow less
 7/7 bombings

The King said the public should draw on the 'extraordinary courage and compassion' shown in response to the attacks. (Photo credit: X/@RoyalFamily)

Starmer and King Charles pay tribute on 20th anniversary of 7/7 bombings

PRIME MINISTER Keir Starmer and King Charles on Monday paid tribute to the unity shown in the aftermath of the 7 July bombings in London, as the country marked 20 years since the attacks.

On 7 July 2005, four Islamist extremists carried out suicide bombings at Aldgate Station, Edgware Road, King's Cross and Tavistock Square. The attacks killed 52 people and injured hundreds more.

Keep ReadingShow less