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Gippsland Lakes Community Health (GLCH) is excited to announce a new collaborative partnership to encourage healthier eating within some of the largest organisations in East Gippsland.

Funded by the East Gippsland Primary Care Partnership, the “Healthy Eating Workplace Partnership” aims to increase employee exposure to healthy eating choices in the workplace and decrease access to discretionary foods that are high in sugar, fat, salt and kilojoules.

“Research indicates there is a link between healthier food and increased productivity, greater creativity, reduced absenteeism and an enhanced sense of happiness and satisfaction,” explains Angela Ellis, Executive Director of the Community Health Services Unit at GLCH. “For example, it’s currently estimated that around 54 per cent of adults in East Gippsland are overweight or obese, and with higher rates of heart disease and high blood pressure than the state’s average. In addition, 14 per cent of people in East Gippsland report experiences of high psychological distress; better nutrition can help to enhance mental wellbeing.”

“Within participating workplaces, this much-needed project will increase access to healthier food, as well as educate employees through the development and distribution of a healthy catering document and supporting resources.”

Some of the organisations already involved in the project include East Gippsland Shire Council, East Gippsland Water, East Gippsland Ports, Catchment Management Authority, Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, Federation Training, and motor groups such as Hyundai and Mazda.

“If your workplace or business would like to become involved, contact GLCH for more information,” says Ms Ellis.

By enhancing knowledge around healthy food choices, the project is expected to help build the confidence and capacity of some 2,000 employees across the region, to help them to live a healthier life.
To find out more contact GLCH on 5155 8300.