Y-USA (the YMCA of the USA) has teamed up with the Healthy Weight Partnership to start offering the Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do it! (MEND) programme across the US.

One of the world’s largest evidence-based childhood obesity programmes, MEND is aimed at empowering seven- to 13-year-olds to reach a healthy weight through two-hour sessions divided between the classroom and physical activity.

Several Ys already offer MEND, but this will be expanded to a 'YMCA version' of the MEND programme during the next few years.

“The MEND programme will strengthen our efforts to help children reach a healthy weight, which will not only improve individual health, but also the overall health of our communities,” said CEO of the Y-USA, Kevin Washington.

With 2,700 Ys and a presence in 10,000 communities, the organisation has the capacity to reach thousands of children and families who struggle to reach a healthy weight.

“Since 2008, we’ve worked Ys around the US to successfully deliver the MEND programme, but we’re delighted to be able to work with Y-USA to offer the programme to many more children and families through the Y’s national network,” said Harry MacMillan, managing director of Healthy Weight Partnership.