Leisure trust GLL has launched a healthy living campaign targeting residents in Tower Hamlets - one of the most deprived areas in the capital.

GLL's Jump Start scheme is a new physical activity referral scheme, delivered in partnership between GLL, NHS Tower Hamlets and the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

The initiative will see local health professionals refer patients with existing health conditions - such as coronary heart disease, stroke and asthma - as well as those at risk of developing health conditions to attend tailor-made, low cost, personal exercise programmes.

The programmes include circuit training, aqua classes, healthy walks and gym-based sessions.

After a patient is referred to 'Jump Start', a dedicated team of GLL exercise specialists assess the patient on a regular basis and are on hand to offer advice on exercise, diet and healthy lifestyles.

All progress is monitored and GLL takes account of current fitness levels and special requirements when devising individual programmes.

Jump Start is available in four leisure centres in Tower Hamlets - Mile End, Tiller, York Hall and Whitechapel Sports centre.

Somen Banerjee, acting co-director of public health, "We know many people with medical conditions benefit both mentally and physically from undertaking a programme of physical activity tailored to their individual needs."