Health on show

Representatives from professional and voluntary organisations gathered at Bradford Health Authority headquarters yesterday to see more than 90 examples of work going on in the district and to take part in the first of 40 workshops.

From children's artwork to electric scooters, every floor at New Mill in Saltaire was packed with colourful displays on health and interactive examples of how to improve lifestyle.

Organised by Bradford's Health Action Zone, the event also sees the launch of new projects such as a food charter to encourage organisations to offer healthy diets and a new men's website.

HAZ communications manager John Callaghan said most of the workshops had been fully booked by a range of individuals from hospitals, primary care, voluntary organisations and social services.

He said: "There's a real mix of people here. This is a really positive image of Bradford and shows how people can develop services from Primary Care Trusts through to neighbourhood renewal schemes or district policies.

"As part of the 2020 vision, the work does all join up, and we are encouraging people to make connections. It doesn't matter how small the project is, it is playing a part."

Yesterday's timetable kicked off with a T'ai Chi taster session and offered a fitness workout with the Keighley Cougars and a display by Dance for Life.

Teacher Kaye Galley from Frizinghall Primary School said she was particularly impressed with the Artists in Schools programme, which encourages learning about health through creative exercises.

She said: "I just wanted to come and see what other people were doing and get some ideas.

"This is a really great record of what's been happening. The art programme is a really good stimulus for the kids and produces quality material."

Tomorrow, front line medical staff will meet top decision makers to help shape the future of Bradford's health service.

For details on today's events, call the enquiry line on (07866) 557514.