13/12/2025
📢 HAVE YOUR SAY 📢
In response to rising child obesity rates in the UK, Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust’s Children and Young People’s (CYP) Service has started recording children’s height, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI) during outpatient appointments.
The Growth Assessment initiative aims to ensure that young patients and their families are equipped with the tools and resources needed to lead healthy and active lifestyles. It will help identify any potential issues early on, allowing families to access the necessary support and guidance on nutrition, physical activity, and overall well-being.
During outpatient appointments, our team are gently and professionally collecting information on each child's height, weight, and BMI. All families then receive a letter with links to NHS advice for healthy eating and exercise. If families have any further concerns or feel they need extra support, they will be advised to speak to their GP, consultant or nurse.
The CYP Service is committed to addressing this issue with sensitivity and compassion, ensuring that no child or family feels judged.
👉 If your child has recently participated in the Growth Assessment whilst attending their outpatient appointment at Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust, we would love to capture your feedback through a short survey: https://ow.ly/ylGQ50UFc0y
We understand that each family’s journey is unique, and we are here to provide support every step of the way. Our aim is to empower children, young people, and their families with the knowledge and tools they need to lead healthier lives. Your thoughts are important to us and will help us to continuously improve this service.
👉 You can read more about the Growth Assessment on the News section of our website: https://ow.ly/i5XW50UFc0t
