Health Foundation responds to childhood obesity plan

Responding to the publication of the government’s childhood obesity plan, Dr Jo Bibby, Director of Strategy at the Health Foundation, said:

'The government’s unambitious childhood obesity plan falls short of what is urgently needed to address a crisis which is placing mounting pressure on health and other public services. If unaddressed, obesity threatens our economic and social prosperity, and the health and happiness of future generations.

'The strategy lacks bold action to tackle the root causes of childhood obesity and help create the supportive environment needed to address it. The scale of the problem demands a society-wide response from all sectors and at all levels. The failure to take tough action on food advertising and promotion is a major gap. This is a missed opportunity to show leadership and do what only governments can do, for which children, their families, the NHS and ultimately the economy will pay the price.'

Media contact

Liza McAlonan, Senior External Affairs Manager

liza.mcalonan@health.org.uk

020 7257 2099