Leisure Centres in Barnet

Here in Barnet we have a vision; "to ensure that Barnet is a healthy suburb where all residents can enjoy long, fulfilling and healthy lives.

At the heart of that vision is a pledge that we in the council will work alongside individuals, supporting them in adopting healthy lifestyles.

Over the last five years we have worked closely with GLL (Greenwich Leisure Ltd), by providing new facilities at all our major sports and leisure sites.  We will continue to build on that good work in the future, reviewing our strategy over the next 12 months, enabling us to achieve one of our corporate priorities - a strong and healthy community.

This year saw the introduction of the first Health and Well-being Commissioning Framework for Barnet.  The document guides how organisations in the borough, such as the Barnet Primary Care Trust and the London Borough of Barnet, will work with providers to plan and shape services to improve the health and well being of residents and enable people to remain independent.

The three year plan is aimed at improving the health and well-being of adults in the borough.  It is set against the backdrop of a growing population which is projected to increase by 18 per cent over the next 20 years.  Whilst many people in Barnet lead healthy lifestyles tackling obesity, reducing alcohol consumption and reducing smoking rates remain priorties.

As part of our work, GLL has developed programmes on behalf of the council and the NHS for adults, such as increasing the numbers of people with cardiac problems who can exercise safely.  In addition, all residents over 60 will now be able to swim for free in the borough's leisure centres.

We believe that individuals have the key role in improving their own health and influencing and encouraging the rest of the community to join in.

So as well as making the most of our facilities, why not try taking up a new sport, walking or cycling to work, or giving up smoking?  Or simply add some exercise into your daily routine, such as parking a bit further away or using the stairs and not the lift.  Even moderate exercise helps you get fit and costs you nothing.

I hope you will join me in having a fit and healthy 2009.

Cllr Richard Cornelius

Cabinet Member for Policy and Performance
London Borough of Barnet