New weight machine launched at South Shields centre

From left Joan Merrifield, Stuart Lawson, volunteer Stephen Smith Coun Nancy Maxwell and Tara Johnson.

BLISS=Ability based in New Green Street, South Shields has launched a new weighing machine to help people stay on track in turning their lives around.

The device allows those unable to be weighed in the traditional way due to being confined to wheelchairs a chance to keep track of their weight.

It works by deducting the weight of the wheelchair or mobility aid to give a person’s bodyweight.

The idea to push ahead with the scheme came about after volunteer Tara Johnson highlighted there was nowhere for people with disabilities or that use a wheelchair to get weighed.

The device, which is portable and can be taken out to community groups, was bought through cash generated through funding from the Big Lottery’s Awards for All grants scheme.

The service now have two of the weighing machines.

It has now led to a new weight management service for people with disabilities to be launched by the centre called ‘Weigh to go’. The service now has two weighing machines.

Chief executive officer of the charity, Sharon Bell, said: “This is fantastic for people with disabilities and for South Tyneside.

“We have already had a number of people who have lost weight after coming to see us. It’s great seeing people reaching their goals.”

Those who access the weighing machine can also receive advice on weight management and activities available throughout South Tyneside.

Booking to use the device is advisable. Call 0191 427 1666 .