Residents in Trafford were surprised to see a giant milkshake on site at Trafford Retail Park this afternoon (Monday 11th December).
It was part of a campaign to raise awareness of a new initiative to uncover the real truth behind childhood obesity across the city’s boroughs.
With 39% of children becoming overweight or obese by the time they reach Year 6 in Greater Manchester, the NHS has launched a survey to better understand people’s perspectives around the real reasons behind the rise.
The giant milkshake, emblazoned with the words, ‘It’s time for a big shake (up),’ has been designed to draw attention to how excessive junk food advertising and ultra-processed foods are part of a multitude of issues behind the rise, which include the cost of living and food prices, as well as a lack of access to high quality green spaces in some areas.
Residents who spotted the milkshake will be encouraged to come and share their views via the survey which can be completed anonymously and takes approximately five minutes to fill out. There will be stewards with the survey available to complete on iPads and to answer any questions.
The milkshake is part of a wider campaign of activity to encourage participation in the survey, with residents across Greater Manchester also receiving a ‘fake’ takeaway menu through their doors over the next couple of weeks, suggesting some more of the key reasons why children in Greater Manchester could be at risk of becoming overweight or obese.
Locals will also spot a series of hard-hitting social graphics and campaign billboards across the city.
Councillor Jane Slater, Executive Member for Health and Care at Trafford Council says “We recognise how hard it is for children and families to be a healthy weight, which is why addressing this is one of our priorities in Trafford. We want to encourage residents to take part in this survey to help us understand the everyday challenges affecting local people, and make sure we are focusing our efforts in the right places.
“We know that where you live within Trafford will have a real impact on your chances of being overweight or obese, and this survey will help us to understand the challenges being faced in different communities.”
To take part in the survey, please visit www.therealpicture.org.
Posted on Monday 11th December 2023