Secret weigh to get kids healthy

NHS giving out 'spy scales' that don't show how heavy you are

- MARTIN BAGOT Health Editor

THE NHS is rolling out “spy scales” that remotely monitor children so medics can get in touch to help steer the kids in the right direction.

The machines, which are handed to parents of severely obese youngsters, do not show the weight reading.

Instead, families are sent text messages of advice and encouragement.

The scales have been trialled by 350 households and NHS England is now rolling them out more widely.

Professor Simon Kenny, NHS England's clinical director for children and young people, said: "This game-changing tool is helping our specialists keep track of children's weight loss progress without them needing to leave home, while offering regular advice to them and their parents to help build healthy habits."