Government teams up with Joe Wicks to encourage healthy living

The government has teamed up with Joe Wicks to inspire children to move more this summer.

An animated Activate series with five-minute episodes will combine animation with upbeat music to encourage children to enjoy short bursts of movement that easily fit into their day and can benefit their physical and mental health. 

The series has been co-created by Joe Wicks and Studio AKA (creators of Hey Duggee).

It is backed by the government's 10 Year Health Plan.

The series was launched at Ripple Primary School in Barking, Joe Wicks and Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, met teachers and parents to discuss keeping kids moving over the summer holidays and beyond.

Streeting said: "Childhood obesity robs our young people of their future, and inactivity is one of the biggest culprits. That’s why it’s crucial to start building healthy habits from a young age.

"Our 10 Year Health Plan sets out how we would tackle obesity through prevention and today demonstrates how we’re taking action. In the spirit of mission-driven government, we’re building a coalition of the willing to tackle the obesity epidemic head-on. 

"This initiative directly supports our focus on giving children the best start in life—a cornerstone of our Plan for Change. By investing in prevention today, we’re building a healthier generation for tomorrow.”