Free online support is to be made available to people looking to trim a few inches off their waistline and boost their mental wellbeing.

Dartford council has found the mental and physical health of its residents has declined over the lockdown period with the elderly among those worst affected.

In response it has launched One You Kent, a free online support service for people who would like to lose weight, be more active, drink less and quit smoking.

The programme, which began as a trial in April, includes an online weight loss group, half hour online exercise sessions and weekly video calls offering one-to-one support.

Kashmir Powar, health team lead at Dartford council said: "It's perfectly normal to feel a bit stressed in these unusual circumstances but if it’s affecting day-to-day life, healthy eating, exercise and routine is incredibly important to stay connected.

“Making healthier choices can have a positive impact on health and wellbeing.

"The One You Kent team are on hand to offer help with free tips and tools to support Dartford residents, whether it's eating more healthily or moving more, we can help to make small, practical changes that fit in with their lifestyles."

Online exercise sessions lasting half an hour will be delivered live by qualified fitness instructors via Zoom on Tuesdays at 10am and Wednesday evenings at 6pm.

To sign up to this free service or for more information, visit oneyoukent.org.uk, email westkentoneyou@nhs.net or call 0300 020 0636.

Read more: All the latest from Dartford