Want a healthy future for Britain? Mum’s the word
Mums are leading the way to a healthier Britain with two thirds selflessly placing family health ahead of their own, according to a new report.
The findings also suggest one in four mums (24%) are concerned that changes to public sector financing will have a detrimental effect on their overall family health expenditure, increasing the need to take matters into their own hands.
The latest Bothered Britain Report, commissioned by health provider, Simplyhealth, reflects the attitudes of the nation with contributing analysis from established, independent health policy analyst and social commentator, Roy Lilley.
Following recent publicity about the coalition Government's plans for its ‘Big Society' and future health provision, mums have been quick to respond. With 50% saying they will be paying greater attention to their children's daily diet and 40% saying that regular exercise holds the key to the future health of their child.
The research also highlights that there is still work to be done communicating some of the proposed changes to Government health policy, with only 37% of people aware of any specific plans. Worries about the cost of future healthcare also come at a time when 52% of people are feeling stressed about making ends meet.
Roy Lilley says: "At the heart of the family, the role of the mum is vital. Mum the peacemaker, mum the fixer, mum the doer. Mums are also the networkers and sharers of information, and continue to look after themselves and the ones they love. This survey tells us that families are much more concerned about the future health of their family than we might have thought.
"At times like this health comes into sharp focus and parents are conscious not to slip into convenience living and short cuts that impact on our health and wellbeing."
James Glover from Simplyhealth says: "Once again health is at the top of people's priorities with our Bothered index. However, due to the economic situation there is also a financial pressure associated with being able to maintain this both now and in the future. Mums are, more than ever, taking on the role of matriarch and they are the ones who will guide families to a healthier future"
Health education may not be all one sided as the younger generation continues to become more health savvy, with the internet playing its role as both a research and information sharing channel. Online self diagnosis is most popular among 16-34 year olds, with over a quarter (29%) preferring to turn to the internet before their GP.
As for areas across the country which are leading the way and championing strong family traditions, Northern Ireland and the North East of England share the top spot, with 83% citing the health of family and close friends as being most important. Northern Ireland only has 12 respondents and North East has 42.
The Bothered Britain Report is launched on the 6 September 2010 as part of Simplyhealth's Bothered Britain Week (6 - 10 September) and is available via simplyhealth.co.uk. Bothered Britain Week is a national health campaign which aims to discover what we are bothered about as a nation, and whether we really are bothered about our health and each other.
Are you doing anything to keep your family healthy this Bothered Week? If so, tell us about it. Log onto wecanbebothered.co.uk and upload photos to share with us. For the latest campaign updates you can follow us on twitter @simplyhealthuk or go on Facebook and search ‘wecanbebothered'.