A new programme has been launched to help families become healthier.

Children's charity Barnardo's and Hampshire County Council have started the Hampshire Healthy Steps initiative, which aims to encourage physical activity, nutrition, wellbeing and maintaining a healthy weight.

According to local data, nearly a third of Year 6 children and one in five reception-aged children in Hampshire are classified as 'overweight or very overweight.'

The programme will offer families fun and interactive sessions on nutrition, physical activity, oral health and sleep.

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Melissa Lewis, Barnardo's service co-ordinator for the programme, said: "We are thrilled to launch the Healthy Steps programme in Hampshire, adding to the range of Barnardo’s support services available for children, young people and families across the county.

"It’s so important that children are given the tools to embed healthy habits and attitudes early on in their lives and this programme is designed to support families to do exactly that."

Cllr Russell Oppenheimer, Hampshire County Council’s executive member for health and wellbeing, added: "We’re pleased to be working alongside Barnardo’s to help improve outcomes for the next generation."

Families can self-refer to the programme or speak to their healthcare professional.

More information is available on the Hampshire Healthy Steps and Barnardo's websites.