The H.A.B.I.T. Suite
(Health Awareness Boosted by Interactive Technology)
The Maureen Sheehan Centre facilitates a health and well being programme through its core project H.E.A.R.T. (Health, Education and Relaxation Therapy) and sees physical activity as being a core and central element to contributing to a healthier community - Physical activity combined with the project key themes of information, healthy eating and health skills training.
To compliment the programme which already exists, the H.E.A.R.T. Project have installed a physical assessment and health monitoring suite at the Maureen Sheehan Healthy Living Centre.
The H.A.B.I.T. Suite incorporates the traditional method of physical activity (i.e. the gym) and updates it through the creative use of new technology-not just in the equipment used in the activity, but in approach and method which is backed up by an I.T. system of assessment, task setting and monitoring of health outcomes.
This can also allow users of the system, both programme participants and health and community professionals, the tools to design and tailor a programme that suits any individual who wishes to expand on their level of physical activity.
The H.A.B.I.T. Suite has a twin aim of combating the health risks of physical inactivity and promoting the benefits of increased physical activity.
Key aspects are:
1. Developing a physical assessment, rehabilitation and treatment resource.
2. Training and development of local people especially young people in disciplines relating to health and physical activity to ensure self-help in delivering continued development in
the long term.
3. It is a resource for:
- G.P's and other health professionals including physiotherapists and those involved in diet and health promotion.
- Belfast City Council Leisure Services staff.
- Local community development organisation to enhance and expand the range and scope of services locally.
The H.A.B.I.T. Suite will :
- Target children at risk of ill health through obesity related illness
- Compliment and add to the initiative created between Belfast City Council, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust and the Eastern Health Board 'Healthwise' programme.
- Provide training and employment initiatives for young people.
- Sustain the programme beyond the funding life of current Healthy Living Centre initiatives.
To access the H.A.B.I.T. suite for exercise by referral, you need to be referred by your Doctor or other healthcare professional who is registered with the Healthwise scheme. They will complete a Healthwise referral form which you bring/send to the H.E.A.R.T. Project. There is usually a small waiting list.
If you have any comments to make about the H.A.B.I.T. Suite or would like any further information don't hesitate to contact us:
by email on heart.project@btconnect.com
by telephone on 028 90310346
or call in to the H.E.A.R.T. Project office in the Maureen Sheehan Centre at
106 Albert Street Belfast BT12 4HL