Enthusiastic volunteers are needed to champion healthy eating and become Sugar Smart Ambassadors in and around Radstock and Westfield.

B&NES Council is looking for people with a passion to encourage realistic and healthier eating habits and spread the word.

Ambassadors are needed to champion Sugar Smart in businesses, schools, or community organisations and help support colleagues, neighbours and friends to adopt healthier eating habits. The role could include talking to local organisations to encourage them to be Sugar Smart, running Sugar Smart events or raising awareness of the impact of excessive sugar consumption in the local community.

A free Sugar Smart Ambassador training session is being held on Tuesday, 4th July from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at Prattens Sports and Social Club.

In late 2017, a survey was carried out to get local views on sugar consumption and the types of actions that should be taken in B&NES as part of the Sugar Smart campaign. A total of 233 completed surveys provided useful insight to inform the local campaign.

The survey showed clearly that the majority of people (80%) were very concerned or concerned about added sugar in food and drink. In particular, respondents stated that they were concerned about the effects of sugar on weight (28%) closely followed by dental health (25%) and diabetes (25%).

The majority of respondents felt that action should be taken locally, by asking schools to take action to limit sugary items being sold in schools (83% strongly agree), asking businesses and organisations to make healthy food and drink options more affordable (79% strongly agree) and asking businesses and organisations to provide fewer price promotions on high sugar foods and more on healthier foods (77% strongly agree).

If you are interested in becoming a Sugar Smart Ambassador and attending the training, email: [email protected]

If your community group is in Radstock or Westfield then you may be eligible to apply for a grant of up to £200, to support your Sugar Smart activity.

Find out more at: radstockwestfield.org.uk/sugar-smart-fund/ More about the campaign at: www.bathnes.gov.uk/sugarsmart