The Obesity Health Alliance welcomed members, colleagues and parliamentarians to their Annual Parliamentary Reception held in the House of Commons.
This event launched the OHA’s manifesto for all political parties in advance of the next General Election. There are three clear asks of the next Government – give children’s health the priority it deserves, build on the success of the Soft Drinks Levy, and empower local communities to make the places they live healthier. Each ask is based on a recommendation in their Turning The Tide 10 Year Healthy Weight Strategy, and developed in consultation with the wider Alliance.
The event saw speeches from the host Maggie Throup MP for Erewash, Steve Brine MP for Winchester (Chair of the Health and Social Care Select Committee), Andrew Gwynne MP for Denton and Reddish (Shadow Public Health Minister). The parliamentarians each shared their perspectives on the need for further government intervention on obesity, outlining their visions for the future.
Throughout the reception, case studies, and a video from Jacob, from the youth board at Bite Back 2030 showed attendees how children were bombarded by unhealthy food messaging wherever they go.
Dr Jo Bibby (Director, Health Foundation) shared the Health Foundation’s view of the importance of public health prevention, particularly with regards to obesity, in the current climate of economic instability and massive pressures on the NHS. OHA's director Katharine Jenner concluded the event by asking audience members to : “Get behind our vision – to prioritise children’s health, to build on what works, and to empower local communities – and then we will find the art of the possible.”
