Community Dietitians in Bath and Chippenham are coming together to raise awareness of their profession as part of a national campaign.
From 9th – 13th June they will be celebrating the world’s first Dietitians Week led by the British Dietetic Association (BDA).
The week aims to profile the work and value of dietitians; it was established as part of the BDA’s Trust a Dietitian campaign to highlight the profession and impact of dietetic practice on the health of the nation.
Activities and events will be taking place throughout the UK, and the dietitians are holding their own activities to mark the week at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, St Martins Hospital in Bath and Chippenham Community Hospital.
Cheryl Richards, Community Manager said: “We’re really looking forward to Dietitians Week and hope the public and will come and join in with our activities.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with the public and raise awareness about our role in the community and in hospitals.
“We work hard to help people make dietary changes to prevent and treat a range of nutrition-related diseases, many of which have become high profile in recent years such as malnutrition, obesity and diabetes.”
Every day during from 12pm-1pm dietitians will be on hand at all three sites (in the main entrances) with nutritional guidance and dietary support on a variety of topics.
There will be information on a different topic each day including care of the elderly, children and diabetes, cancer care, stroke and bowel health and digestion.
All will have opportunities to ask questions, seek advice and take part in some fun competitions.
On Tuesday 10th June a Store Tour will be taking place at Sainsbury’s store in Odd Down from 2.30pm-3.30pm.
Members of the public will be able to walk the store with dietitians and ask any questions regarding food and health. Dietitians will also be dispelling common food myths.
Rachel Cooke, Senior Dietitian said: “Our work also involves promoting healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle to the public and that is why the BDA’s Trust a Dietitian campaign is so important.
“Choosing the right person to seek nutritional help and advice from can sometimes be confusing; we want the public to know who we are, what we do and why registered dietitians are the experts when it comes to nutrition and food professionals.”
Places on the tour must be booked in advance. To book onto the tour contact 01225 833916 and leave a message including your name and contact details with Rachel Cooke.
The dietetics team work under Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. More information about the Trust’s Nutrition and Dietetic Service is available on their website at www.gwh.nhs.uk.
You can also find more information about the British Dietetic Association and Dietitians Week at www.trustadietitian.co.uk
