Healthy Lifestyles Warwickshire is making a positive difference to residents across the county, with over 1,500 referrals received since its launch on 1 July 2026.
The healthy lifestyles service, funded by Warwickshire County Council and delivered by ICE Creates, provides personalised support through dedicated health coaches to help residents improve their health and wellbeing. The service offers support with stopping smoking, weight management, increasing physical activity and reducing alcohol consumption through a holistic, person-centred approach.
The number of referrals into the service so far demonstrates the desire among Warwickshire residents to make positive lifestyle changes and improve their overall wellbeing.
Many people receiving tailored support through Healthy Lifestyles Warwickshire are already reporting significant improvements to both their physical and mental health. One person, a 24-year-old resident from Nuneaton who has successfully quit smoking through the service, described the positive changes as having a "ripple effect" across her life. She said: "Everything is improving, especially my mental health. I suffer with bad anxiety but for the past few weeks I have been much less anxious and more proactive about getting the support I need.”
Another resident, aged 32 from Leamington Spa commented: "I have quit smoking and I feel more confident than ever before about sticking with it long term. I feel so much better after only five weeks of being smoke free. I am changing my life, and I am fired up about it.”
Councillor Anne-Marie Sonko, Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Social Care and Health, said:
"We want all residents to live well in Warwickshire so we are delighted to see so many accessing Healthy Lifestyles Warwickshire in its first few months and beginning to experience the benefits that healthier choices can bring.
"The service is designed to provide personalised support that meets people where they are and helps them make sustainable changes that last. We encourage anyone who would like support with stopping smoking, managing their weight, becoming more active or reducing alcohol consumption to get in touch."
Adam Riglar, Engagement Director at ICE Creates, said:
"Reaching over 1,500 referrals so soon after launch is a fantastic milestone and reflects the need for accessible, personalised health and wellbeing support across Warwickshire.
"We are particularly proud to hear stories from residents whose lives are being transformed through the support of our health coaches. These outcomes show how a holistic approach can help people achieve goals they may never have thought possible.
"We look forward to continuing to support even more residents on their journey towards healthier, happier lives."
Healthy Lifestyles Warwickshire provides free support to residents for smoking cessation, weight management, physical activity and reducing alcohol consumption. For more information and to access support, visit www.hlswarwickshire.org.