The programme was developed by the Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP) and Somerset Coast Primary Care Trust and has been running very successfully since 2004.

The aim of DASH is for "the school and family to work together through physical activity and health education to provide a good platform for those children with weight issues or potential issues in the primary school system to manage their weight". The key strength of DASH is that it is a family centred scheme. If the family does not become engaged then the sessions would be of little benefit. Family involvement helps children maintain any lifestyle changes.

DASH delivers three early morning activity sessions (7am until 8am) and one health education session of 10-15 minutes each week over a period of 6 weeks

There are also home visits by the DASH activators to secure 'buy in' from parents. This is considered essential if health benefits and good practices are to be sustainable. A focus is also placed on encouraging participation by friendship groups.

The focus on multi-skills coaching has helped children currently lacking the skills to enjoy sport to learn and master core skills with a view to making exercise a more positive experience.

The programme is monitored by a shuttle test every 6 weeks and regular questionnaires. That said, DASH veers away from the ‘Fat Club’ angle.

Results from Somerset have been impressive. Children have lost significant weight whilst attending, but even more pleasing is the fact that the whole family has been involved so that lifestyle changes are being maintained; children’s self esteem has improved markedly and their fitness levels continue to rise.

Cornwall DASH Pilot

We are currently working on our own version of DASH (which we're calling Family Fun Fit)

If you would like your school to take part please get in touch with us 01209 310061, [email protected]