The Healthy Choices quiz, developed by the Department of Health and Social Care and the NHS, aims to empower adults to take control of their health by making small changes day to day.
The quiz takes about five minutes to complete, asking questions about behaviours in the areas of eating, movement, alcohol consumption, smoking and vaping, mental health and sleep. Residents receive an overall score based on their answers, which indicates how their lifestyle could be positively or negatively affecting their health and wellbeing.
While the quiz itself provides national NHS signposting, Walsall residents are encouraged to self-refer into local evidence-based support services. These include Be Well Walsall commissioned by Public Health.
Be Well Walsall is a free wellbeing service to help improve residents’ physical and mental health. Support includes improving wellbeing, being a healthier weight and stop smoking and vaping. NHS Health Checks are also available through Be Well Walsall for those aged 40 to 74, who have not had one in the last 5 years and do not already have certain pre-existing health conditions (such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or high blood pressure).
Another support service is Quit with Bella. (fully funded by Walsall Council) which offers app provision from AI robo-coach Bella alongside support from a trained advisor to help residents quit smoking, including a 12-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy or vapes.
Further support can be provided by The Beacon (Change Grow Live) who provide free and confidential support for people in Walsall who need alcohol or drug related support.
“ The NHS Healthy Choices quiz is a great way of empowering residents to take simple, practical steps towards better health. There are no wrong answers, it is about making the right start. We hope the quiz will connect people with local services like Be Well Walsall, Quit with Bella and The Beacon to start their journey to improve their wellbeing and lead healthier lives. “
Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
Walsall Council
The Healthy Choices quiz can also serve as a helpful starting point for those considering starting a family. By making small changes now, residents can support their own health and lay the foundation for a healthier future for themselves and their families.
Residents aged 18 or over who do not have an existing health condition can complete the quiz by going to the NHS website. At the end of the quiz, the results are given and split into two categories (try to improve and great job).
Residents who would like support for issues identified under ‘try to improve’ can sign up to Be Well Walsall for support with wellbeing, being a healthier weight and stop smoking. Visit their website or call 01922 444044. A health and wellbeing coach will get in touch to discuss next steps.
To sign up to Quit with Bella for digital stop smoking support, visit the Solutions 4 Health website.
For alcohol and drug support, residents can refer themselves or professionals can refer clients to The Beacon online via the Change Grow Live website. For more information, please contact thebeacon.walsall@cgl.org.uk or call 01922 669840.
