People in Heaton are being urged to get healthy as part of a new scheme launched in the district.

The Healthy Heaton project is a joint venture between the Health Authority, Bradford West Area Panel, churches in Heaton, police and residents' groups.

It will look at health and social needs in the area, develop an action plan and help residents tackle issues affecting their health and quality of life.

A newsletter has been distributed to hundreds of homes letting people know about the scheme, which covers the Haworth Road and Brantwood estates and Duchy Avenue.

Three part-time workers will be running a number of initiatives from their base in Whites Close.

Tracy Higgins, health liaison officer, said: "We held several community workshops through the area panel and it became apparent that the people in the Haworth Road area were in need of something, particularly health-based activities for the young and elderly.

"We want to involve as many of the residents as possible, as well as local schools and businesses. We've already set up a steering group with representatives from the police, councillors, schools and residents' groups.

"There is a whole range of free activities on offer and we want as many people as possible to get involved."

Workers are running a contest to design a project logo and carrying out a survey on health needs, for which volunteers are needed - help with childcare is available.

And they are inviting people to the steering group meeting on Monday at 1pm at 6 Whites Close, Haworth Road, to find out more. The committee's Kathleen Damant said: "It is apparent that Haworth Road can be a stressful area to live in and people definitely need a project like this."

Events include a 'Fun with Food' course and a chance to air views. For details telephone Bradford 495033.

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