A pilot of a new app has launched across Wolverhampton that offers incentives such as vouchers for shops, gym discounts and cinema tickets for users who track their exercise and healthy eating using the app.
Supported by a government scheme, the app generates personalised health goals for every participant, for example providing a target to increase their step count or eat more fruit and vegetables.
The trial has launched over the next 20 weeks to provide the opportunity to explore whether offering incentives can help people make positive changes to improve their health and wellbeing.
Incentives range from food vouchers to discounts at retailers such as Amazon, Argos, Primark, M&S, John Lewis and Currys. The app also includes advice to manage a budget and support for users to develop healthier habits.
Ian Brookfield, Leader of the City of Wolverhampton Council said: “We are already making significant progress in tackling physical inactivity, improving infrastructure and making environmental changes to enable people to be more active, and we are delighted to be working with the Department for Health and Social Care and HeadUp on this important pilot programme to see whether offering incentives can help people make positive changes to improve their health and wellbeing.”
Neil O’Brien, Health Minister, added: “The government is investing £3m to help people in Wolverhampton lead healthier, happier lives. Better Health: Rewards app aims to put people in control of their own health. It’s about making it easier for people to eat better and increase physical activity. If you live in Wolverhampton, please don’t hesitate to sign up.
“This scheme is a fantastic opportunity to explore how government and business can work together to deliver a new and engaging way of supporting the public to make healthier choices.”
To support the campaign, the overview video below has been produced:
