People struggling with being overweight may be given Fitbit watches and supermarkets discounts, say reports.
According to The Telegraph, the NHS is expected to launch a £6million health incentive scheme to encourage people to exercise more regularly and eat healthier.
Fitness firms and leading supermarkets are being approached and asked to run the scheme.
And if the trial is successful then it could be rolled out across the rest of England.
A six-month trial will begin in January 2022 and will see Fitbits prescribed to those who take part.
Sir Keith Mills, founder of Airmiles and Nectar points, and an adviser on the scheme, said: “The Health Incentives scheme could be a vital tool in the government’s plans to tackle health inequalities and encourage healthier behaviours.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses, the public and third sectors to come together and deliver a new and exciting way of supporting people to healthier habits.”
Public health minister Jo Churchill said: “This aims to help level up the health of our nation. This scheme further demonstrates the dedication in our strategy to encourage people to lead healthier, happier lives.”
According to the Express, illnesses related to obesity cost the NHS £6billion a year with almost two-thirds of adults in England living with excess weight or obesity.
What's more, England is also the most obese country in western Europe, with rates rising faster than in the United States.
For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.
.jpg?w=600)
