wellness
Preston Residents Now Access 10+ Local Health and Wellness Resources
Programmes and helplines provide targeted support based on local health data.
How we reported this
Sixty-four per cent of Preston adults are overweight or obese, while only 61 per cent are physically active enough to benefit their health, figures that are significantly worse than the England average. This data comes from local authority reporting and points to the value of existing support options for residents seeking to improve their wellbeing.
Weight Management Programme
Adults over 18 can join a free 12-week Healthy Weight programme. Sessions take place at Deepdale Stadium and other venues across Preston. The programme combines exercise sessions, educational workshops and guidance from weight management specialists. Details appear on the Preston Medical Centre site and the Preston City Council pages that list current services.
Support for Families
Families with children aged 5 to 10 can take part in the PASTA programme. It runs after-school activities at primary schools and community venues. The focus is on healthier eating and cooking skills. Information is listed on NHS Live Well pages that cover Preston services.
Mental Health Helplines
Residents needing mental health and wellbeing support can contact the Help in Preston helpline on 0800 678 1602, available 8am to 7pm daily. A separate 24-hour mental health helpline operates on 0800 915 4640. Anonymous text support is also offered by texting HELLO to 07860 022846. These numbers are published on the MECC Link site for the Preston, Chorley and South Ribble area.
Everyday Wellness Advice
Local guidance recommends walking one hour daily in natural daylight, especially around midday, to help with low mood. It also suggests keeping homes between 18°C and 21°C and balancing carbohydrate cravings with fresh fruit and vegetables. These recommendations are drawn from Lancashire County Council health programme pages for Preston. Residents are advised to speak with a medical professional for personal health decisions.
The combination of the statistic on adult weight and activity levels with the listed programmes and contact numbers gives Preston residents clear starting points. The Healthy Weight programme and PASTA activities address specific age groups, while the helplines cover mental health needs at different times of day. Following the general advice on daily walking and home temperature provides additional steps that can be taken immediately without enrolment. Further information on all these options is available through the cited local authority and NHS sites.