Brits to get free shopping vouchers & cinema tickets if they can prove they’re living healthy – but only in one city
BRITS in this lucky city are set to receive free shopping vouchers and cinema tickets - but only if they can prove they're living healthily, the Government has said.
Anyone living in Wolverhampton will be able to collect points for exercising and healthy eating after the Government chose the West Midlands city for its new healthy living pilot.
The Government trial aims to assess whether people will lead healthier lives when offered incentives.
They'll be able to earn points for things like theme park tickets, gym passes and clothes or food vouchers, according to the Department of Health and Social Care.
Residents who take part will be given a fitness tracker linked to an app which will encourage them to increase their step count and eat more fruit and vegetables.
And, if they display healthy behaviours, they'll be rewarded with points.
If the trial proves successful the policy could be rolled out to the rest of the country.
Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: "This pilot is an exciting opportunity to see how we can empower people to make healthy changes to their lifestyle and I would encourage all adults in Wolverhampton to come forward and register their interest."
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The team behind the scheme is thought to have taken inspiration from Singapore’s National Steps Challenge - a programme which has showed promising results in helping people become healthier.
Sir Keith Mills, Health Incentives Advisor, said: “This scheme is a fantastic opportunity to explore how government, business and the third sector can work together to deliver a new and engaging way of supporting the public to make healthier choices.
“Through the pilot we will have exciting and innovative partners on board will help motivate people to want to earn incentives, but also should help them overcome barriers to making healthy decisions in future. I’m looking forward to see how this scheme develops.”
It is estimated that obesity-related illnesses cost the NHS around £6billion a year and around two-thirds of adults in England are said to be living with obesity or excess weight.
Depending on your income levels you might be eligible for help when it comes to being healthy.
Many people in the UK rely on food banks and fresh fruit and vegetables aren't always available.
You might be able to get vitamins and vouchers for milk, fruit and vegetables and infant formula milk.
