where i live - Research library - 'We can move' insight2024-03-29T09:50:13Zhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/feed/tag/where+i+liveNew report shows large unmet demand for cycling from ethnic minority and disadvantaged groupshttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/new-report-shows-large-unmet-demand-for-cycling-from-ethnic-minor2020-08-05T08:29:28.000Z2020-08-05T08:29:28.000ZAlan Inman-Wardhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/AlanInmanWard<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.sustrans.org.uk/our-blog/news/2020/july/new-report-shows-large-unmet-demand-for-cycling-from-ethnic-minority-and-disadvantaged-groups">https://www.sustrans.org.uk/our-blog/news/2020/july/new-report-shows-large-unmet-demand-for-cycling-from-ethnic-minority-and-disadvantaged-groups</a></p>
<p>28th July 2020</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7243960462,original{{/staticFileLink}}">cycling_for_everyone-sustrans-arup.pdf</a></p>
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<p class="intro">Cycling for Everyone, a new report by Sustrans and Arup highlights inequalities within cycling participation in urban areas between different demographics, including those from ethnic minority groups, women, disabled people, older people, and those at greater risk of deprivation.</p>
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<h4>What does the report tell us?</h4>
<p>The Covid-19 pandemic has brought to light many disparities within society.</p>
<p>People from ethnic minority groups and other disadvantaged communities being <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-review-of-disparities-in-risks-and-outcomes" target="_blank">disproportionately affected by Covid-19</a> and over-represented within the <a href="https://www.ifs.org.uk/uploads/BN285-Differences-between-key-workers.pdf" target="_blank">key worker sector</a>.</p>
<p>The recognition from our Prime Minister that obesity can increase the risk of serious illness and death from COVID-19 has prompted a new Government Obesity Strategy.</p>
<p>Cycling has proved its worth during the pandemic, as a safe and socially distanced way for people to get exercise and as a means to travel to work and for other essential journeys.</p>
<p>However, 74% of people from ethnic minority groups living in <a title="Bike Life" href="https://www.sustrans.org.uk/bike-life/">our 12 Bike Life cities</a> and towns do not currently cycle.</p>
<p>Despite low participation levels, the report found 55% of people from ethnic minority groups who do not currently cycle would like to start.</p>
<p>This compares to 37% of White people.</p>
<h4><br />Transport isn't doing enough to address barriers for these groups</h4>
<p>This report finds that the transport sector is not doing enough to address the barriers people from ethnic minority groups and other disadvantaged communities face.</p>
<p>Tackling safety, through protected cycle lanes and low-traffic neighbourhoods, is critical.</p>
<p>However, the report highlights a lack of confidence, security, as well as the financial outlay of purchasing a cycle as being some of the barriers that are more likely to prevent those from ethnic minority groups and other disadvantaged communities from cycling.</p>
<p>In <a title="Bike Life" href="https://www.sustrans.org.uk/bike-life/">our 12 Bike Life cities and towns</a>:</p>
<ul>
<li>a third (33%) of people from ethnic minority groups were not confident in their cycling skills</li>
<li>25% of people from ethnic minority groups stated that a lack of facilities at home or work (e.g. secure cycle storage) was a barrier to cycling</li>
<li>20% of people from ethnic minority groups stated the cost of a suitable cycle stopped them from cycling.</li>
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<h4> <br />What needs to be done?</h4>
<p>In order to address these barriers, the report highlights recommendations which aim to help to work towards reducing inequalities within cycling.</p>
<p>While challenges exist between different demographic groups, including between different ethnic minority groups, the report finds many of the barriers to increasing diversity in cycling are shared.</p>
<p>Key recommendations highlighted in the report include an extension of the UK Government’s Cycle to Work Scheme to include those in low-income jobs, as well as support to those not in employment, to ensure that cost is not a barrier for <a href="https://www.ethnicity-facts-figures.service.gov.uk/work-pay-and-benefits/employment/employment/latest#by-ethnicity" target="_blank">anyone looking to purchase a cycle</a>.</p>
<p>The report also urges the need for improvements in secure cycle storage in residential areas, and particularly for flats and high-rise buildings where storing a cycle inside may prove challenging.</p>
<p>To improve confidence free cycle training needs to be provided to all children and adults, and cycling infrastructure expanded to reach areas where transport options are poor and high traffic levels exist.</p>
<h4><br />We must welcome and support all people to cycle</h4>
<p>Daisy Narayanan, Director of Urbanism at Sustrans said:</p>
<p>“This report brings to light that for too long, the needs of so many have been ignored within cycle planning and development.</p>
<p>“In order to work towards real change and make cycling more inclusive, we call upon the industry, local authorities and central government to welcome and support all people to cycle.</p>
<p>"It is only when we move away from exclusively designing towns and cities for those who already have access to move through spaces with ease, can we really create equitable places to live and work”.</p>
<h4><br />We need to start designing cycling for everyone</h4>
<p>Susan Claris, Global Active Travel Leader, Arup said:</p>
<p>“The health, wellbeing and social benefits of cycling in our towns and cities are clear.</p>
<p>"But these benefits are not equally felt by everyone, and we need to do more to ensure that cycling truly is accessible for all.</p>
<p>“This guidance supports a move away from designing cities for people who already cycle, or have power and privilege.</p>
<p>"Instead, we need to use our collective skills, expertise and ambition as a sector to start designing cycling for everyone.”</p>
<h4><br />Challenging the transport sector to do more</h4>
<p>Jools Walker, Author of 'Back in the Frame' and cycling blogger said:</p>
<p>“If widening participation and improving planning for more marginalised groups to get into cycling is a goal, then all of these voices need to be given the platform to be heard, ensuring that the decisions made are rounded, informed and of course, genuinely representative.</p>
<p>“There has to be a significant shake-up within this sector if we're going to change it.</p>
<p>"It's a huge step to admit that you've 'got it wrong' in the past, but I challenge the transport sector to do more.”</p>
<p> </p>
<h4><a title="Inclusive cycling in cities and towns" href="https://www.sustrans.org.uk/our-blog/research/all-themes/all/inclusive-cycling-in-cities-and-towns/">Find out more about inclusive cycling in cities and towns and download the report.</a></h4>
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</div>New research shows £5.5bn fund needed to level up access to urban green space as part of UK’s green recoveryhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/new-research-shows-5-5bn-fund-needed-to-level-up-access-to-urban2020-07-15T07:35:00.000Z2020-07-15T07:35:00.000ZAlan Inman-Wardhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/AlanInmanWard<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/press-release/new-research-shows-55bn-fund-needed-to-level-up-access-to-urban-green-space-as-part-of-uks-green-recovery">https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/press-release/new-research-shows-55bn-fund-needed-to-level-up-access-to-urban-green-space-as-part-of-uks-green-recovery</a></p>
<p>5th July 2020</p>
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<p class="nt-introduction"><strong>As the Prime Minister set out his ambition for the country’s recovery in the West Midlands last week, the National Trust, the Mayor of the West Midlands, Sustrans, Create Streets and local council leaders[3] have written to him urging a £5.5billion commitment to an urban green infrastructure fund to level up access to urban green space as part of his “infrastructure revolution”.</strong></p>
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<p>The huge surge in people’s use of parks and green spaces during the coronavirus pandemic - up 25 per cent this May compared to May 2018 and nearly doubling over the last decade from 1.2bn visits in 2009-10 to 2.1bn in 2018-19 and the significant inequality of provision exposed by the crisis, shows a need for urgent investment in greening neighbourhoods, towns and cities.</p>
<p>New research published today, by Vivid Economics and Barton Wilmore, commissioned by the National Trust and partners, makes a powerful economic case for such a significant investment across the UK in greening the country’s most left behind and greyest urban communities over the next five years. </p>
<p>This green infrastructure investment would bring an impressive £200 billion in physical health benefits through disease prevention and mental wellbeing benefits to alleviate some of the strain on local health service providers and to improve people’s quality of life.</p>
<p>Over 20 million people would feel the benefit from this investment, nearly a third of the UK population. Local economies would also benefit from job creation, particularly in those areas of the country facing high levels of unemployment, with an estimated 40,000 jobs in initial construction and over 6,000 created permanently for ongoing maintenance. </p>
<p>The research mapped the most deprived and greyest areas of Great Britain and assessed the costs and benefits of three major interventions to level up access to quality green spaces:</p>
<p>1. Greening urban streets and neighbourhoods, creating street parks and connecting-up local green spaces to enable safe and attractive walking and cycling for everyone, whether that’s to school, work, for leisure or shopping on the high street.</p>
<p>2. Upgrading poor quality parks and green spaces so they are fit for the 21st Century, with more trees and wildlife, cycling routes, and with facilities for communities to significantly boost recreation, play and sport.</p>
<p>3. Creating large regional parks and forests in the urban fringe, on green belt land, connected into the city, to give millions of people the freedom to explore and play in wild natural spaces, without needing a car. </p>
<p>Andy Street, the Mayor of West Midlands says: “We are immensely proud of our green spaces here in the West Midlands, and we have fought tremendously hard to keep them – particularly when it comes to housebuilders eyeing up our greenbelt land.</p>
<p>“The coronavirus pandemic has shown us just how important these spaces are, not just for physical well-being but also for people’s mental health as well. Because of this there is now real potential to achieve bold, green, change in the next few years, and this must be at the forefront of the Government’s mind as it begins to draw up recovery plans for the country.</p>
<p>“Here in the West Midlands we have big ambitions for a new kind of National Park to unite the people of the West Midlands with their landscape and shared heritage. We want to connect our dense grey areas with surrounding green acres, create new urban greenspace, cycle routes, and wildlife-rich areas across all our towns and cities. </p>
<p>“Whether it is getting more people moving to tackle high-levels of obesity, or planting more trees to help us reach our climate change targets, an urban national park is an innovative idea that would make a significant difference to our region.”</p>
<p>Covid19 has exposed deep inequalities in access to green space:</p>
<p>• 295 deprived neighbourhoods of 440,000 people that are grey deserts, with no trees or accessible green space. </p>
<p>• In areas where over 40 per cent of residents are from ethnic minorities, there is 11 times less public green space than in areas where residents are largely white, and it is also likely to be of poorer quality. Meanwhile, black people are four times less likely than white people to have a private garden. </p>
<p>• Black and Asian people visit natural settings 60 per cent less than white people, despite the fact that ethnic minority communities statistically value parks more than their white counterparts.</p>
<p>• In the poorest 20 per cent of households, 46 per cent don’t have a car, so urban parks and green spaces are their only opportunity to have contact with nature, rural beauty spots are beyond reach.</p>
<p>Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol, says: “We know how vital parks and urban green spaces have always been to the health and wellbeing of Bristol communities, and especially during the pandemic.</p>
<p>“The use of them has shot up as they have become part of the people’s daily routine for walks and family bike rides, the neighbourhood gym, a place for socialising once lockdown restrictions eased and a therapeutic escape for us all.</p>
<p>“Whilst Bristol prides itself as a green city, not everyone can see a tree from their window, not all of us have easy access to brilliant parks, not every child can experience the joy of the natural world.</p>
<p>“We are changing that inequality through our city’s recovery plan. It will put green and liveable neighbourhoods at the centre, empowering our communities to bring trees, nature and aspiration into their streets and shared spaces. </p>
<p>“We have exciting plans to create new city centre parks and turn some of our car parks into new beautiful green spaces, like in Paris. We also have ambitious plans to transform and connect the city’s network of green spaces, working with business and community partners. But we need investment to unlock this potential and kick start our green recovery.”</p>
<p>Examples of the sort of projects, from micro to macro, that could be created by this scale of investment across the country include:</p>
<p>• Turning an under-used side road into a local street park and 'edible walkway' such as that planned for Freeling Street in Islington, North London, led by the community.</p>
<p>• New green boulevards and public squares to bring people back to high streets and city centres, as proposed for the Millbay area of Plymouth[15].</p>
<p>• Green, traffic-free routes from Manchester city centre to out to wilder countryside sites via Borough towns.</p>
<p>• A new regional park for the West Midlands covering more than seven towns and cities, and creating hundreds of miles of green space, conservation areas and new cycle routes. </p>
<p>Easy access to quality green space has become an essential need for urban dwellers. Nearly two-thirds of people have appreciated local greenspaces more due to Covid-19 and that they want them to be a higher priority for government priority. Some inner-city parks have experienced a close to 300 per cent increase in visits this spring. The National Trust has also experienced unprecedented visitor numbers to its urban fringe sites. </p>
<p>Greening neighbourhoods, towns and cities brings a host of wider benefits to people’s lives, improving air quality, reducing summer temperatures and surface flooding, and making cycling and walking even more attractive. </p>
<p>It will also help make cities and towns resilient to climate change and achieve net zero ambitions, with this scale of investment delivering one in 12 of the UK’s tree planting target. Research on London’s green spaces showed for every £1 Councils spent on looking after parks, £27 in value was generated for people.</p>
<p>The National Trust and the other signatories have offered to assist government in delivering at pace green infrastructure improvements for those urban communities in greatest need, using their collective powers and abilities.</p>
<p>Hilary McGrady, Director-General of the National Trust says: “We are calling for a major collaborative effort – for national government, local councils, charities, businesses, communities and funders across our cities and towns to work together in new ways to bring nature and beautiful green spaces into everyone’s lives. </p>
<p>“Everyone needs access to natural beauty for their wellbeing. It’s the very foundations on which the Trust was built, and we want to live up to that ambition by supporting partners, projects and innovations that can deliver this humble but inspiring benefit to millions more people.</p>
<p>“Now is the time for Government to be bold and ambitious for the future, investing in the upgrade, extension and connection of the vital green infrastructure of towns and cities, just as it is doing for transport infrastructure. The Prime Minister could lead a transformation that enables all urban dwellers to live with beauty; a gift of renewal and hope comparable to the post-war creation of the nation’s great rural National Parks and its urban green belts.”</p>
<p>ENDS</p>
<p><strong>Editor's and picture editor’s notes:</strong></p>
<p>For a copy of the research report, please click on the link below.</p>
<p>For images of some of the green infrastructure projects which are either in concept stage or already underway, click on the following link. Please credit imagery as indicated. Further details of what the imagery shows follows in the additional notes below. </p>
<p><a href="https://nationaltrustonline.sharepoint.com/:f:/s/MediaAssets/EjZrAEJChBxCp9rNqtvoIigBErrTXzlfl8VI1diwqw1oew?e=SmN002">https://nationaltrustonline.sharepoint.com/:f:/s/MediaAssets/EjZrAEJChBxCp9rNqtvoIigBErrTXzlfl8VI1diwqw1oew?e=SmN002</a></p>
<p><strong>Concept images from Barton Willmore</strong></p>
<p>Full image captions for the Barton Willmore credited imagery of green infrastructure projects for Leeds and Reading:</p>
<p>A new street park for Leeds - This dense urban street in Leeds could be transformed into a Street Park as shown, for a cost of £3.3m per km, (including maintenance). Local communities would reap significant physical health and wellbeing benefits as well as air pollution reduction equating to £3 for every £1 spent. </p>
<p>A transformed dual carriageway for Reading – As proposed in the Reading 2050 Vision, the transformation of Reading’s ring road (IDR) into a new urban park could offer residents of the town, crucial access to extensive, connected green infrastructure. New urban parks like this could offer a 4:1 return on investment due to the huge physical health and wellbeing value to local communities generated, alongside precious carbon capture and air pollution reduction. </p>
<p><strong>Plymouth – project in progress</strong></p>
<p>A green boulevard in Plymouth – The transformation of the main route between Plymouth city centre and the Millbay waterfront which forms the setting for mixed use redevelopment led by 600 new homes, a hotel, leisure and employment uses; the project includes enhanced walking and cycling infrastructure, street tree planting and SUDs (Sustainable drainage systems) in the form of rain gardens and a ground source thermal district heating system. </p>
<p>This £6million project is funded by Plymouth City Council’s Capital Programme, Homes England Land Release Grant, European Regional Development Funding, and local developers contributions targeted by the planning system and is anticipated to be completed by April of 2021.</p>
<p>Images of the Plymouth project should be credited to LDA Design, Exeter. The project includes:</p>
<p>Plymouth City Council, LDA Design, Exeter, AWP (Awcock Ward Partnership) Exeter, South West Highways (SWH), Main Contractor, Mick O’Connor and Gilpin Demolitions Ltd.</p>
<p><strong>Islington in London - concept</strong></p>
<p>Imagery shows plans for a pocket park and edible walkway between two areas of Islington.</p>
<p><strong>Northern gateway – Manchester</strong></p>
<p>A key theme of the Northern Gateway – a partnership between developer Far East Consortium and Manchester City Council - is a unique City River Park, bringing life to the Irk River Valley and connecting seven new and emerging neighbourhoods through high quality open green spaces and public squares. It aims to connect the city with some very deprived communities to the North.</p>
<p>The ambitious green space will stretch from Angel Meadow through to Collyhurst with the intention of providing flood resilience and attracting a wide range of biodiversity, while celebrating the existing architectural features of the valley, including Manchester’s Victorian railway arches. </p>
<p>With much improved connectivity – focusing on green transport, including walking, cycling and public transport – the Northern Gateway has the potential to attract a range of visitors from the city centre and beyond, taking advantage of the green space and leisure amenities, while improving the lifestyle residents. </p>
<p>At its heart, the Northern Gateway is a residential-led development and aims to build a mix of 15,000 new homes over the next 15 years with at least 3,000 affordable homes across a range of tenures.</p>
<p>Website: <a href="http://northerngatewaymanchester.co.uk/development/">http://northerngatewaymanchester.co.uk/development/</a></p>
<p><strong>Northern roots – Oldham, Greater Manchester</strong></p>
<p>Northern Roots is creating the UK’s largest urban farm and eco park on 160-acres of stunning greenspace in the heart of Oldham, Greater Manchester. The Northern Roots site covers 160-acres of moorland, woodland, marsh and wetlands. It is five minutes from the centre of Oldham, with views of the Peak District and Saddleworth from its southern end, delivering lots of green space in an urban setting. </p>
<p>Northern Roots has development funding and the planning and consultation is underway. With initial support from Oldham Council, Northern Roots is a unique investment ready opportunity to deliver economic, health and environmental outcomes and deliver against the levelling up agenda. </p>
<p>Through its award-winning parks and Growing Hubs, Oldham has become a beacon for community growing, local food production, horticulture training, renewable energy, and urban biodiversity. Northern Roots is a unique opportunity to build on this expertise at an unprecedented scale. </p>
<p>Website: <a href="https://northern-roots.uk/">https://northern-roots.uk/</a></p>
<p><strong>Sustrans projects</strong></p>
<p>In Greater Manchester, Sustrans is working alongside charity partners, landowners and local authorities to enhance the greenway network. </p>
<p>While funding has been secured to upgrade some elements of the network, further investment is required to fully unlock the potential of these greenway corridors. </p>
<p>Images of parts of the cycle-ways already built – the Bridgewater way and Trans-Pennine trail.</p>
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</div></div>New engagement factsheet on supporting low-income households releasedhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/new-engagement-factsheet-on-supporting-low-income-households-rele2020-07-14T07:58:41.000Z2020-07-14T07:58:41.000ZAlan Inman-Wardhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/AlanInmanWard<div><p>Source: <a href="http://www.activityalliance.org.uk/news/5780-new-engagement-factsheet-on-supporting-lowincome-households-released">http://www.activityalliance.org.uk/news/5780-new-engagement-factsheet-on-supporting-lowincome-households-released</a></p>
<p>7th July 2020</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}6865615693,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Supporting_disabled_people_from_low-income_households_to_be_active_original.pdf</a></p>
<p><strong>We have released our latest engagement factsheet titled ‘Supporting disabled people from low-income households to be active’. It is the latest in a collection of resources that advise sport and leisure providers on inclusive practice. Learn how you can plan, target and deliver more appealing and accessible opportunities for disabled people.</strong></p>
<p>Research from Sport England<a href="http://www.activityalliance.org.uk/news/5780-new-engagement-factsheet-on-supporting-lowincome-households-released#_edn1">[1]</a> shows that disabled people from lower socioeconomic groups are much more likely to be physically inactive than disabled people from higher socioeconomic groups (43% vs 29%). And, three times more likely to be inactive than non-disabled people from higher socioeconomic groups inactive (43% vs 14%).</p>
<p>This new factsheet provides insight on how deprivation affects some disabled people’s lives. It explores the relationship between poverty and disability. And, how both the causes and consequences of deprivation can impact a person’s desire, choice and opportunity to be active.</p>
<p>The factsheet covers the following topics:</p>
<ul>
<li>Poverty among disabled people</li>
<li>Activity levels among low socioeconomic groups</li>
<li>How low socioeconomic status impacts activity - factors that can influence disabled people</li>
<li>Considerations for successful engagement and delivery</li>
</ul>
<p>Poverty is a complex problem that affects millions of people in the UK. Half of all people in poverty are either disabled themselves or live with a disabled person – that’s around 7 million people<a href="http://www.activityalliance.org.uk/news/5780-new-engagement-factsheet-on-supporting-lowincome-households-released#_edn2">[2]</a>. </p>
<p><strong>Ray Ashley, Activity Alliance’s Strategic Lead – Partnerships</strong>, said:</p>
<blockquote>“We want to empower organisations by providing the right support, connections and insight so that more disabled people have access to fair activity opportunities. Our latest factsheet is an important addition in supporting activity providers and organisations to encourage more disabled people to be active.</blockquote>
<blockquote>“Engaging disabled people from low-income households to take part in sport and physical activity can be challenging. It requires understanding and flexibility of approach. Our latest factsheet addresses this challenge. We look forward to working with sport and leisure providers to ensure their opportunities are welcoming and accessible for everyone.” </blockquote>
<p>The factsheet was created in partnership with Professor Tess Kay, Professor of Sport, health and social science at the University of Stirling. She said:</p>
<blockquote>“I am so pleased to see this important guidance emerging. Low income can have an enormous impact on people’s participation in sport and physical activity, but it is often overlooked. It is not just about being short of cash - there are so many associated effects, from stress and worry, to poor everyday living conditions. As this resource explains, disabled people can be at greater risk. This timely guidance has a wide relevance, especially at this uncertain time. I really applaud Activity Alliance for taking the lead on this crucial issue.”</blockquote>
<p>Our new factsheet: <strong>Supporting disabled people from low-income households to be active</strong>, complements our existing bank of engagement factsheets released in April 2019.</p>
<p>To access all of our engagement factsheets, <a title="visit the engagement page" href="http://www.activityalliance.org.uk/how-we-help/programmes/1746-engagement-and-partnerships" target="_blank">visit the engagement page</a> on our website.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.activityalliance.org.uk/news/5780-new-engagement-factsheet-on-supporting-lowincome-households-released#_ednref1">[1]</a> Sport England Active Lives Adult Survey 2017/18</p>
<p><a href="http://www.activityalliance.org.uk/news/5780-new-engagement-factsheet-on-supporting-lowincome-households-released#_ednref2">[2]</a> Family Resources Survey 2017/18</p></div>Survey on online and distance learning – Resultshttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/survey-on-online-and-distance-learning-results2020-06-08T06:14:31.000Z2020-06-08T06:14:31.000ZAlan Inman-Wardhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/AlanInmanWard<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.schooleducationgateway.eu/en/pub/viewpoints/surveys/survey-on-online-teaching.htm">https://www.schooleducationgateway.eu/en/pub/viewpoints/surveys/survey-on-online-teaching.htm</a></p>
<p>May 2020</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}5714110094,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Survey on online and distance learning.pdf</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="hat">he survey findings reveal that almost all respondents’ schools have switched to some form of distance teaching since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, and over 60% believe that school practices will not be the same when they reopen, with more online/distance teaching and learning than before. For two thirds of respondents, the closure of schools has led to their first experience with online teaching, which has been both positive and challenging.</p>
<p>As the <a href="https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1" target="_blank"><strong>COVID-19 pandemic</strong></a> has led to <a href="https://en.unesco.org/themes/education-emergencies/coronavirus-school-closures" target="_blank">massive school closures</a> across Europe, many countries have taken measures to limit the disruption to education, necessitating a move to <a href="https://www.educations.com/study-guides/study-online/" target="_blank">online and distance learning</a>, encompassing not only <a href="https://time.com/5801192/italy-coronavirus-lockdown-school/" target="_blank">secondary but also primary schools</a>.</p>
<p>Although distance learning offers obvious <a href="https://elearningindustry.com/9-benefits-of-elearning-for-students" target="_blank">advantages</a> for both teachers and students, such as continuity, flexibility and mutual support, many teachers have had to adjust to online teaching owing to the necessarily short notice. On top of that, it is difficult for teachers to ensure that all pupils, especially the disadvantaged and young ones, will stay engaged and take part in classes online.</p>
<p><strong>This survey to explore opinions on online and distance teaching from across Europe was open on School Education Gateway from 9 April to 10 May and attracted a record number of respondents – 4859 – of whom 86% were teachers or school heads.</strong></p>
<p>It complements the national surveys that have been run and which we also include a snapshot of.</p>
<p>Thank you for your interest and do please <a href="https://www.schooleducationgateway.eu/en/pub/suggest-content.cfm" target="_blank">send your suggestions for future surveys</a>.</p>
<hr />
<h3><strong>Results (N=4859)</strong></h3>
<h3>1. Thinking of your school, or a school you know, which statement best describes teachers’ experience with online teaching?</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.schooleducationgateway.eu/downloads/images/survey_2020_elearning/Q1_EN.png" alt="Q1_EN.png" /></p>
<p>For 67% of respondents, this was their first experience with online teaching. 25% had some experience, and only 6% had extensive experience with online teaching. For 3% of respondents, their school has not switched to online/distance learning.</p>
<h3>2. As a teacher, or on behalf of a teacher you know, what has pleasantly surprised you about online/distance learning?</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.schooleducationgateway.eu/downloads/images/survey_2020_elearning/Q2_EN.png" alt="Q2_EN.png" /></p>
<p>The most pleasant surprise, mentioned by 38% of respondents, was innovation (that is, freedom to experiment with teaching practice). This is followed by flexibility (33%), a wide range of digital tools (31%), accessibility of platforms, materials and resources (27%) and increased autonomy and motivation among learners (23%).</p>
<p>A smaller 14% chose engagement and enjoyment of pupils, while only 11% of respondents were pleasantly surprised by an improved relationship with pupils, and 10% by the ease of online/distance learning.</p>
<h3>3. In your opinion, what have been the main challenges for teachers in switching to online/distance learning? Choose up to five options.</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.schooleducationgateway.eu/downloads/images/survey_2020_elearning/Q3_EN.png" alt="Q3_EN.png" /></p>
<p>Respondents were asked to choose five challenges from a list of 17. Fewer than 1% reported no challenges.</p>
<p>The most frequently mentioned challenge was access to technology (computers, software, stable Internet connection, etc.), whether by pupils (mentioned by 49% of respondents) or teachers (34%). Increased workload and stress working from home was reported by 43% (with 18% finding time management and organisation a challenge).</p>
<p>The biggest challenge related to supporting pupils was keeping all of them motivated and engaged (43% of respondents chose this), involving pupils from socially disadvantaged homes (36%), involving disaffected pupils (19%) and supporting those with special needs or disabilities (18%).</p>
<p>Digital competence was reported as a challenge both for pupils (24%) and for teachers (24%). The most frequently mentioned learning content and assessment challenge was converting activities and content into online/distance learning (28%), closely followed by preparing content for online and distance learning (27%) and assessing pupils’ progress (25%).</p>
<p>Communication issues with pupils were mentioned by 19% of respondents, and communication issues with parents or caregivers by 13%. Only 7% felt that little direction or support given by the school was a challenge.</p>
<h3>4. What would most help teachers to support online learning during the school closure?</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.schooleducationgateway.eu/downloads/images/survey_2020_elearning/Q4_EN.png" alt="Q4_EN.png" /></p>
<p>Of eight possibilities, more free resources from education technology companies was the most frequently chosen (by 45% of respondents). Other useful types of teaching and learning content were websites with lists of useful resources (29%) and educational TV programmes by national media organisations (10%).</p>
<p>The second most frequently mentioned support was clear guidance from the Ministry of Education (41%).</p>
<p>Various types of professional development were often mentioned, in particular quick courses on online teaching (37%), webinars and TeachMeets for teachers to share ideas and challenges (22%), video clips/lesson plans of good practices (31%) and easy contact with experts, such as a more experienced online-learning teacher or an ICT expert (24%).</p>
<h3>5. In your opinion, due to the current circumstances created by the COVID-19 virus, when schools fully reopen, will online/distance teaching remain part of school practice?</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.schooleducationgateway.eu/downloads/images/survey_2020_elearning/Q5_EN.png" alt="Q5_EN.png" /></p>
<p>School will be a little different, with more online learning than before, according to 44% of respondents. A further 17% felt that school will be quite different: online teaching will become integral to school practices. On the other hand, 39% felt that very little will change, 32% agreed that school will return to its original practice with minor changes, and 7% supposed that the school will return to its original practice.</p>
<h3>Conclusions of the European survey</h3>
<p>What positively surprised respondents most is innovation, being free to experiment with teaching, flexibility and the wide range of digital tools. There is less positive surprise reported regarding increased student engagement or improved relationships, although they have been noted.</p>
<p>Almost every respondent reported challenges, the most frequent being access to technology, for both pupils and teachers, and increased workload and stress working from home. Several challenges related to supporting pupils were identified, together with their digital competence – and that of teachers.</p>
<p>Respondents feel that support in terms of more educational resources would help them meet the challenges, as well as clear guidance from the Ministry of Education, together with professional development, such as short courses on online teaching and opportunities for teachers to share resources, ideas and challenges.</p>
<p>These findings offer some early indications to policymakers and school leaders that the experience of distance/online teaching and learning, although challenging, may have lasting positive effects, opening up interesting possibilities for innovation and new ways of working, especially if supported by appropriate and timely professional development.</p>
<p><em>Some caution is needed in interpreting the results, given that the sample of respondents is based on voluntary online participation and relatively small compared to the number of teachers and other stakeholders in Europe. Although more than 40 countries are represented in this survey, most respondents reportedly come from France (36% of the total), Bulgaria (19%) and Portugal (14%).</em></p>
<h3>Results from recent national surveys</h3>
<p>According to a <a href="https://oesterreich.orf.at/stories/3048783/" target="_blank"><strong>study in Austria</strong></a> with 3,500 teachers covering all school types, 60% of teachers feel distance learning has had a strong impact, and the respondents believe this is the case for 64% of students as well. Three quarters of teachers report that home schooling made them more aware of their students’ private situation. 86% claim to take individual situations into account. Special education teachers reportedly individualised teaching the most, but they could maintain less personal contact with their students than teachers in regular or integration classes.</p>
<p>The <strong>Czech School Inspectorate</strong> conducted a comprehensive <a href="https://www.csicr.cz/cz/Aktuality/Vybrana-zjisteni-Ceske-skolni-inspekce-k-distancni" target="_blank"><strong>survey on distance learning</strong></a> via telephone conversations with the principals of almost 5,000 primary and secondary schools (1-14 April 2020). Most pupils were understood to be engaged in some way, although 15-20% reportedly struggled initially due to lack of ICT equipment / insufficient Internet connection, low motivation, or lack of support from parents. Intensive use of digital technology in distance education, interest in its use and expectations of further use in the future are clearly positive findings. Two thirds of schools expect that most teachers will take up more digital technology in class after returning to school.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.vodafone-stiftung.de/umfrage-coronakrise-lehrer/" target="_blank"><strong>Interviews</strong></a> by the <strong>German institute Allensbach</strong> underlined the importance to teachers of personal contact with pupils. However, only one third have been able to establish and maintain such contact. Half of the teachers report reaching most of their pupils, 9% only some pupils and 3% none of their pupils. Teachers report both more stress (34%) and less stress (36%) compared with regular teaching. Additional stress is caused by the different organisation of tasks, providing feedback to pupils and evaluating homework. Technical issues troubled close to half (40%) of the teachers who experienced additional pressure. Keeping in contact with parents is a particularly complicated issue for primary school teachers.</p>
<p>Research reports have also been published in <a href="https://home.edurio.com/report-shutdown-lessons" target="_blank"><strong>Latvia</strong></a> and <a href="https://www.into.ie/app/uploads/2020/04/Covid-19-Practice-in-Primary-Schools-Report-1.pdf" target="_blank"><strong>Ireland</strong></a> (both in English).</p>
<h3>Annex</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.schooleducationgateway.eu/downloads/images/survey_2020_elearning/Q6_EN.png" alt="Q6_EN.png" /></p></div>The Experience of the Coronavirus Lockdown in Low-Income Areas of England and Waleshttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/the-experience-of-the-coronavirus-lockdown-in-low-income-areas-of2020-06-05T09:17:46.000Z2020-06-05T09:17:46.000ZAlan Inman-Wardhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/AlanInmanWard<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.streetgames.org/the-experience-of-the-coronavirus-lockdown-in-low-income-areas-of-england-and-wales">https://www.streetgames.org/the-experience-of-the-coronavirus-lockdown-in-low-income-areas-of-england-and-wales</a></p>
<p>June 2020</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}5615615293,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Coronavirus_report_Exec_Summary.pdf</a></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}5615637871,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Coronavirus_report.pdf</a></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}5843159678,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Youth Voice Research.pdf</a> </p>
<p>During April and May 2020, some 270 community organisations that are based in the most deprived areas of England and Wales, and 188 young people who live in those neighbourhoods, shared their experiences, worries and opinions about life during and after the Covid lockdown. These community organizations are trusted in their neighbourhoods and work with StreetGames to support young disadvantaged people to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle. StreetGames calls them ‘Locally Trusted Organisations’ (LTOs).</p>
<p><br /> In many instances LTOs have become the first port of call for families who are struggling to cope with the crisis, and this has placed additional burdens on LTOs’ time and resources. Despite this, they are doing everything in their power to support young people and their families through lockdown, adapting their provision and expanding their remit to support whole families and older people rather than just children and youth.</p>
<p><strong>Young peoples’ experience of lockdown</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Home conditions during lockdown are often challenging for low income households, with young people trapped in overcrowded housing, with limited private space, and reduced access to normal support structures.</li>
<li>Lockdown has damaged young people’s social lives with 77% of them citing their inability to socialize with friends and family as their biggest concern. They miss their friends and having someone to talk to and somewhere to go.</li>
<li>More than two-thirds say their activity rates have dropped, while just 16% say they are now more active. Still, 45% say they are missing taking part in sport and 20% say they are missing competition.</li>
<li>Both lockdown and fears around the virus are driving forces for deteriorating mental health and wellbeing amongst young people and their families. Increased stress and family tension is also having a detrimental impact on mental wellbeing.</li>
<li>A lack of structure has left young people struggling to cope with their daily lives, staying up late and sleeping in.</li>
<li>Young people are often very short of activity kits, from board games to footballs. Many do not always have internet access.</li>
</ul></div>Spatial Planning for Health An evidence resource for planning and designing healthier placeshttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/spatial-planning-for-health-an-evidence-resource-for-planning-and2020-02-17T08:15:44.000Z2020-02-17T08:15:44.000ZAlan Inman-Wardhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/AlanInmanWard<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/spatial-planning-for-health-evidence-review">https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/spatial-planning-for-health-evidence-review</a></p>
<p>(June 2017)</p>
<p><strong>Introduction</strong></p>
<p>The built and natural environment is a key environmental determinant of health and wellbeing. In this report ‘built and natural environment’ refers to the characteristics (objective and subjective) of a physical environment in which people live, work and play, including: schools, workplaces, homes, communities, parks/recreation areas, green (ie visible grass, trees and other vegetation) and blue spaces (ie visible water). Built environment and health</p>
<p>The linkages between health and the built and natural environment have long been established and the role of the environment in shaping the social, economic and environmental circumstances that determine health is increasingly recognised and understood. An ever-increasing body of research indicates that the environment in which we live is inextricably linked to our health across the life course. For example, the design of our neighbourhoods can influence physical activity levels, travel patterns, social connectivity, mental and physical health and wellbeing outcomes.</p>
<p>However, it is important to recognise that the causal links between built environment and health are often complex, in that they are influenced by numerous, sometimes conflicting, factors. Although it is difficult to quantify, with precision, the impact of the built and natural environment on health, research does seem to consistently report that the majority of our health outcomes are explained by factors other than healthcare (Kuznetsova, 2012; McGuinness, Williams-Russo & Knickman, 2002). To aid understanding of the built and natural environment and health, Barton and Grant (2006), drawing upon the work of Dahlgren and Whitehead (1991), devised the Health Map (Figure 1). The map is focused on the role of neighbourhood and planning, and emphasises the importance of the built and natural environment’s contribution to health and wellbeing outcomes, in line with the socio-ecological approach to health (Orme et al., 2010)</p>
<p>Contents<br /> About Public Health England 2<br /> Project overview 5<br /> Introduction 6<br /> How to use this document 9<br /> Neighbourhood design 11<br /> Principles for building healthy neighbourhoods 11<br /> Neighbourhood design: Case study 1 – Fitter for Walking 17<br /> Neighbourhood design: Case study 2 – Walkable neighbourhoods<br /> (IPEN Adult Study) 19<br /> Housing 23<br /> Housing: Case study 1 – CHARISMA: Housing improvements<br /> and childhood asthma 28<br /> Food environment 30<br /> Principles for healthier food environments 30<br /> Food Environment: Case study 1 – Gardens for Life 35<br /> Natural and sustainable environments 38<br /> Principles for natural and sustainable environments 38<br /> Natural and Sustainable Environments: Case study 1 –<br /> Would you be happier living in a greener urban area? 46<br /> Natural and Sustainable Environments: Case study 2 –<br /> Mortality from Urban Heat Island Effect during West Midlands heatwave 48<br /> Transport 52<br /> Principles for healthy transport 52<br /> Transport: Case study 1 – Connect2 58<br /> Transport: Case study 2 – Cambridgeshire Guided Busway 60<br /> Discussion 63<br /> Conclusions 67<br /> Acknowledgements 69</p>
<p> </p></div>People Assumed Women in Ghana Wouldn’t Skate. Then One Crew Changed Everythinghttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/people-assumed-women-in-ghana-wouldn-t-skate-then-one-crew-change2020-02-11T08:22:10.000Z2020-02-11T08:22:10.000ZAlan Inman-Wardhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/AlanInmanWard<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.vice.com/en_uk/article/4ag3pg/skate-gal-club-ghana-gender-equality-metoo-assault-survivors">https://www.vice.com/en_uk/article/4ag3pg/skate-gal-club-ghana-gender-equality-metoo-assault-survivors</a></p>
<h2 class="ff--body lh--body fw--normal size--3 m-b-4--xs">Collective Skate Gal Club say they've taught 200 women how to ride, while creating a platform to promote women's rights.</h2>
<p>On a hot Saturday in Accra, past a half-pipe set up in her house's front yard, Sandy Alibo is sweating over her kitchen's gas stove. She's preparing fried banana crumble for about half a dozen members of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/skategalclub/?hl=en" target="_blank">Skate Gal Club</a> – an all-women skateboarding collective she co-founded in 2019 with her friend Kuukua Eshun. Sandy places each melting scoop of ice cream delicately on the side of the women's plates, as they sit around her large kitchen table, animatedly discussing Tarana Burke's #MeToo movement for survivors of sexual assault.</p>
<p>It's no accident that we're in Sandy's home in Accra's central Osu district – a diverse, bustling neighbourhood at the heart of Ghana's creative scene. Within these walls, she and Kuukua have created a central hub for Skate Gal, where club merchandise, from posters to fridge magnets, covers nearly every room. On a typical day, you'll find a handful of Skate Gal members gathered around her kitchen table, cementing the club's dual role.</p>
<p>In one sense, it's a place for women to learn board skills and kick flips, pushing back against assumptions of what a 'sport for women' can be. As she digs into her dessert, Kuukua tells me that "It's about building confidence." But seen from another angle, the club offers an open environment for members to talk about sex, work and being an African woman in a <a href="https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2019/06/14/ghanas-economic-growth-expected-to-be-stronger-in-2019-but-diversifying-economy-is-crucial" target="_blank">rapidly growing</a> and changing country like this one. Sure, you can class Skate Gal Club as strictly a space for physical activity. But in real terms, its work on helping women cope with the knock-on effects of sexual assault and other trauma extends far beyond the half-pipe. Part of their ethos, Sandy adds, is to "teach women how to skate, to educate women about sports and to change the mindset that people have about women in sports".</p>
<div class="article__media"><img src="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474392451-skate_ghana_003.jpeg" alt="Skate Gal Club Ghana gender equality #Metoo" width="348" height="232" />
<div class="article__image-caption">A FEW MEMBERS OF SKATE GAL CHAT OUTSIDE SANDY'S HOME IN OSU.</div>
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<p>Initially, Sandy and Kuukua aimed to bring women into the mix of a previously male-dominated sport. In 2016, Sandy founded collective <a href="https://www.instagram.com/surfghana/" target="_blank">Surf Ghana</a> to promote surfing and skateboarding across the country, inspired by her background as an extreme sports event manager in her native France. She eventually teamed up with the Ghanaian skate crew <a href="https://skatenationgh.org/" target="_blank">Skate Nation</a>, and in 2018, with the support of brands like Vans and Decathlon, they launched a nationwide tour. They'd hoped to teach more than 1,000 people how to skate, but failed to attract more than a handful of women. Sandy found that women were often intimidated about performing in front of crowds largely made up of men – a problem that Skate Gal is working to change.</p>
<p>So far, it's working. Through their community events, Skate Gal has taught roughly 200 women and girls basic skateboarding skills. Members find their way to the club in ways as varied as its remit. "For some people, it's just finding a place that they belong," says 22-year-old Sarah Nyarko, a postgraduate business student. She joined the group after attending a demo at the annual street art festival <a href="https://www.vice.com/en_uk/article/mbmbgn/chale-wote-2019-photos-street-style-art" target="_blank">Chale Wote</a> last August. "I went home and I couldn’t sleep because it was just so invigorating."</p>
<div class="article__media"><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=600:* 2x" media="(max-width: 25em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=400:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=600">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=600</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=975:* 2x" media="(max-width: 40.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=650:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=975">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=975</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1275:* 2x" media="(max-width: 53.125em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=850:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1275">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1275</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1575:* 2x" media="(max-width: 65.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1050:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1575">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1575</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1575:* 2x" media="(min-width: 65.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1050:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1575">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg?resize=1575</a>:* 2x" /><img src="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474331561-skate_ghana_016.jpeg" alt="Skate Gal Club Ghana gender equality #Metoo" width="381" height="254" />
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<div class="article__media"><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=600:* 2x" media="(max-width: 25em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=400:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=600">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=600</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=975:* 2x" media="(max-width: 40.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=650:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=975">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=975</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1275:* 2x" media="(max-width: 53.125em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=850:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1275">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1275</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1575:* 2x" media="(max-width: 65.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1050:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1575">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1575</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1575:* 2x" media="(min-width: 65.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1050:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1575">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg?resize=1575</a>:* 2x" /><img src="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474310447-skate_ghana_006.jpeg" alt="Skate Gal Club Ghana Kuukua Eshun" width="378" height="252" />
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<p>Harmonie "Blue" Bataka, a 24-year-old data analyst, used to be one of just two women in Skate Nation. She later joined Skate Gal after responding to an advert on Instagram. "Skate Gal is sort of a home," she tells me back at her house in the more quiet, middle-class Accra suburb of Spintex. "When I'm skating with the girls, we motivate and learn from each other. It took me three months to learn how to ollie; that one was frustrating. But you fall, you get hurt – it doesn't kill the fun."</p>
<p>The club manages to balance that invigorating fun with frank discussions on the realities of life as a young black woman in Ghana. A major part of these dialogues revolve around women's rights. Some in the group are survivors of sexual abuse, adding their voices to Ghana's #MeToo movement, and calling for abusers to be held accountable. Back in September, they joined dozens of women to march through Accra in <a href="https://www.voanews.com/africa/women-ghana-march-against-sexual-violence" target="_blank">protest against</a> sexual violence.</p>
<p>Ria Boss, who says she was sexually assaulted by a close friend and by a former partner, describes how Skate Gal Club facilitates an ideal support network. "All these wonderful women created a space where I didn’t feel like I had to hide, or that I had to be ashamed of what I had been through," she tells me over the phone. "It goes beyond just meeting once a month and doing some cool tricks; it’s become this sisterhood where every single day I know that if I need to speak to someone, someone's there to pick up the phone."</p>
<div class="article__media"><img src="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474810130-skate_ghana_009.jpeg" alt="Skate Gal Club Ghana Ria Boss #Metoo" width="389" height="259" />
<div class="article__image-caption">RIA BOSS.</div>
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<p>In December, Ria and Kuukua took part in a <a href="https://www.un.org/en/events/endviolenceday/" target="_blank">Stand Against Rape</a> walk supported by the United Nations. It ended with a bonfire outside police headquarters where Ria held a "healing session" for women to speak openly about the abuse they'd suffered. "I think breaking down those walls of shame is very important," Ria says. "I know in my situation it took me a while to even say to myself: 'you’ve been raped.'"</p>
<p>"The silence makes it worse," says Akpene Hoggar, a creative consultant Skate Gal member. "I didn’t even know that some friends around me had been sexually assaulted, and they didn’t know I had been either."</p>
<div class="article__media"><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=600:* 2x" media="(max-width: 25em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=400:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=600">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=600</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=975:* 2x" media="(max-width: 40.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=650:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=975">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=975</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1275:* 2x" media="(max-width: 53.125em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=850:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1275">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1275</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1575:* 2x" media="(max-width: 65.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1050:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1575">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1575</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1575:* 2x" media="(min-width: 65.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1050:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1575">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg?resize=1575</a>:* 2x" /><img src="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1580474554303-skate_ghana_007.jpeg" alt="Skate Gal Club members Ghana gender equality #Metoo" width="453" height="302" />
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<p>Skate Gal are currently <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-skateboarding-club-to-empower-women-in-ghana?member=2462330" target="_blank">crowdfunding</a> the creation of Accra's first dedicated skate park, to avoid frequent clashes with the police, and some members of the public who see skating as a nuisance.</p>
<p>"That's why, for me, the most important thing that we can do now is to get a skate park," Sandy says. Kuukua brings up a time when "Sandy and some of the guys got attacked in Achimota [a town in southern Accra], for skating in one of the few places that we can skate."</p>
<div class="article__media"><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=600:* 2x" media="(max-width: 25em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=400:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=600">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=600</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=975:* 2x" media="(max-width: 40.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=650:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=975">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=975</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1275:* 2x" media="(max-width: 53.125em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=850:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1275">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1275</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1575:* 2x" media="(max-width: 65.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1050:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1575">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1575</a>:* 2x" /><source />https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1575:* 2x" media="(min-width: 65.625em)" data-srcset="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1050:*, <a href="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1575">https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg?resize=1575</a>:* 2x" /><img src="https://video-images.vice.com/_uncategorized/1581266549413-skate2.jpeg" alt="Skate Gal Club Ghana gender equality #Metoo" width="461" height="307" />
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<p>The group are determined to keep finding ways to bridge the representation gap, and, most importantly, portray a different version of what it means to be a woman in Africa. "All over the world as black women, we've had to work twice as hard just to be able to represent ourselves, tell our own stories or change the narrative," Kuukua tells me.</p>
<p>"Our generation have really stepped up the game – my grandmother didn’t have the opportunities that I have at my age." Akpene says. "Ultimately, it's about creating a community where people feel can be safe to try anything, to explore – to learn."</p></div>To what extent do unhealthy behaviour indicators explain the neighbourhood deprivation gradient in overweight among 11-year-old English children?https://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/to-what-extent-do-unhealthy-behaviour-indicators-explain-the-neig2020-02-06T09:24:13.000Z2020-02-06T09:24:13.000ZAlan Inman-Wardhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/AlanInmanWard<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31993476">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31993476</a></p>
<h3><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3849803864,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Journal article.pdf</a></h3>
<h3>Abstract</h3>
<div>
<h4>AIMS:</h4>
<p>This study examined associations between neighbourhood deprivation, school commuting behaviour, a range of unhealthy behaviour indicators and overweight/obesity among 11-year-old English children.</p>
<h4>METHODS:</h4>
<p>Data are from wave five of the UK Millennium Cohort Study, collected in 2012. Subjects consisted of 7262 (3637 boys) 11-year-old English children. Children were classified as normal weight or overweight/obese. School commute mode (active/passive) and health behaviour indicators were parent-reported. Health behaviour indicator scores below the mean of the lower half of the distribution were classified as unhealthy on this indicator. Neighbourhood deprivation was defined using the 2004 English Indices of Multiple Deprivation. Odds ratios (ORs) for being overweight/obese according to neighbourhood deprivation were estimated. A range of unhealthy behaviour indicators were explored to assess the extent to which they attenuated associations between neighbourhood deprivation and overweight/obesity.</p>
<h4>RESULTS:</h4>
<p>Children living in the most deprived neighbourhoods in England were more likely to be overweight/obese, commute to and from school actively and participate in all unhealthy behaviour indicators compared to children living in the least deprived neighbourhoods. Adjusting for confounders and significant unhealthy behaviour indicators reduced the OR for overweight/obese from 1.81 (95% CI 1.54 to 2.13) to 1.56 (95% CI 1.30 to 1.88) in the highest neighbourhood deprivation group compared to the lowest.</p>
<h4>CONCLUSION:</h4>
<p>Active school commuting alone is unlikely to be enough to prevent and reduce the prevalence of overweight/obesity in the most deprived English neighbourhoods. Childhood overweight/obesity-related interventions should focus on promoting participation in a range of health behaviours.</p>
</div></div>The economic benefits of a more physically active population An international analysishttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/the-economic-benefits-of-a-more-physically-active-population-an-i2020-02-03T11:10:22.000Z2020-02-03T11:10:22.000ZAlan Inman-Wardhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/AlanInmanWard<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR4291.html">https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR4291.html</a></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3845521209,original{{/staticFileLink}}">RAND_RR4291.pdf</a></p>
<p>This report examines the potential economic benefits of physical activity. Specifically, it looks at the potential gains in economic output and healthcare expenditure savings under different physical activity improvement scenarios at the population level.</p>
<div class="abstract product-page-abstract">
<h2 id="key-findings-">Introduction</h2>
<p class="abstract">It is estimated that about 30 per cent of the global population is considered to be physically inactive. Such inactivity is of high concern when the physical and mental health benefits of physical activity are well established, and that research shows that regular physical activity is associated with lower onset rates of a range of disease conditions. Research also illuminates the stark fact that physical inactivity is associated with more than 5 million deaths every year. With the global rates of physical activity diminishing, and the associated costs to humankind increasing as a result, the insidious and dangerous nature of such global inactivity is becoming increasingly exposed.</p>
<p>In recognition of this, and in order to explore how these high levels of physical inactivity drive cost in economies, the Vitality Group asked RAND Europe to conduct an economic analysis of the potential economic benefits associated with getting people to be more physically active. Using a multi-country computable general equilibrium (CGE) macroeconomic model, RAND Europe examined the potential global implications of insufficient physical activity and changes of physical activity levels at the population level across different countries. The overarching aim of the study was to explore the main economic costs of physical inactivity and to identify the key benefits to improving activity rates. By presenting this data via the three modelled scenarios, the consequence of higher inactivity compared to improved activity rates may be better understood.</p>
</div>
<h2>Key Findings</h2>
<div class="key-findings">
<p>The findings suggest that making people physically more active is associated with economic benefits. Under three different physical activity improvement scenarios, it is estimated that by 2025, the global GDP could be between US$138 billion — US$338 billion higher with increased activity, compared to current physical activity levels. The economic benefits are increasing over time and by 2050 the estimated increase could be nearer to between US$314 billion and US$760 billion. A breakdown of the GDP gains suggests that reduced presenteeism drives the highest proportion of economic gain as a result of reducing physical inactivity — about 70 per cent — with reduced mortality and reduced sickness absence responsible for only about 30 percent of the overall GDP gains projected.</p>
<p>Furthermore, the findings suggest that billions of dollars in global healthcare expenditure could be saved by improving physical activity rates. Overall the models estimate that between US$8.7 billion - US$11.2 billion in present global healthcare expenditure could be saved by making people physically more active, with those savings rising to between US$16 billion and US$20.6 billion by 2050.</p>
</div>
<h2 id="recommendations-">Recommendations</h2>
<div class="recommendations">
<ul>
<li>Change population behaviours and attitudes to promote the increase of physical activity, supporting and encouraging individuals to shift their beliefs and motivations.</li>
<li>Using both community and workplace settings, provide an environment that encourages physical activity and that supports the access to facilities.</li>
<li>Encourage the participation in programmes and interventions.</li>
<li>Encourage more physical activity across society by interlinking systems-wide programmes and interventions.</li>
</ul>
</div></div>Hastings workforce project - understanding audienceshttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/hastings-workforce-project-understanding-audiences2020-01-28T15:38:12.000Z2020-01-28T15:38:12.000ZActive Gloucestershirehttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/ActiveGloucestershire<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.activesussex.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Hastings-Workforce-Project-Stage-1-report.pdf">https://www.activesussex.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Hastings-Workforce-Project-Stage-1-report.pdf</a></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3837665312,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Hastings-Workforce-Project-Stage-1-report.pdf</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>In contrast with the rest of East Sussex, Hastings has a relatively young population. This should lead to higher than average activity rates as people tend to be more active when they are younger,</p>
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden field-wrapper body">
<p>and activity declines with age. While Hastings does have lower inactivity rates than Eastbourne and Rother, the levels of deprivation push the inactivity rate above the Sussex average .</p>
<p>Six neighbourhoods in Hastings with high levels of deprivation were selected for doorstep resident interviews. High levels of inactivity are closely associated with deprivation. Specifically income, education and local area deprivation. Even low-cost activities such as walking are affected by deprivation .</p>
<p>318 doorstep interviews were undertaken in these 6 neighbourhoods. This included three neighbourhoods in Hollington Ward, and three adjoining neighbourhoods in Baird, Tressell and Ore wards. A further 125 surveys were completed online from across the town which provide comparative data.</p>
<p>These interviews sought to understand residents’ activity rates, the barriers they faced to becoming active, and the support they would like from clubs, coaches, volunteers and staff.</p>
<p><a class="external" href="https://www.activesussex.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Hastings-Workforce-Project-Stage-1-report.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.activesussex.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Hastings-Workforce-Project-Stage-1-report.pdf</a></p>
<p>Active Hastings have conducted focus groups with coaches to understand their priorities, views and training needs. The resident and coach insight has been used to plan the next stage of the project, to develop the workforce to better support inactive people to become and remain active.</p>
<p>Let me know if you have any questions.</p>
<p>Henry McLaughlin, <span class="cspName">Active Sussex</span> on 28th January 2020</p>
</div></div>How you'll be able to use sports facilities at Gloucestershire schoolshttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/how-you-ll-be-able-to-use-sports-facilities-at-gloucestershire-sc2020-01-28T08:31:20.000Z2020-01-28T08:31:20.000ZActive Gloucestershirehttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/ActiveGloucestershire<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3837239022?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/news/gloucester-news/how-youll-able-use-sports-3781857">https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/news/gloucester-news/how-youll-able-use-sports-3781857</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Schools in Gloucestershire at set to fling their doors open and allow people to use their sports facilities.</p>
<p>County <a href="https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/all-about/education">schools</a> will receive a share of a £1.6million funding boost to allow them to make better use of their <a href="https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/other-sport/">sports</a> halls or pitches.</p>
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<p>The scheme will encourage schools to allow residents in the local area to <a href="https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/all-about/your-money">hire</a> their facilities to play sport, and encourage people to be more active.</p>
<div class="teads-inread sm-screen">
<div>
<div class="teads-ui-components-adchoices"> </div>
<div class="teads-ui-components-credits">Richard Fishlock, strategic lead for facilities at Active <a href="https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/all-about/gloucestershire">Gloucestershire</a>, who will be running the scheme in the county, said: “We will be helping to support schools to open up their doors and facilities for the community.</div>
<div class="teads-ui-components-credits"> </div>
<div class="teads-ui-components-credits">“It is a win-win, it provides schools with a new stream of income and gives the community access to new sports facilities, with the view to get people more active.</div>
<div class="teads-ui-components-credits"> </div>
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</div>
<p>“The resources are there in a lot of schools and they are just sitting there waiting to be used.”</p>
<p>There is a budget of around £70,000 for Gloucestershire, the areas targeted will be those parts of the county that are more deprived and that have a lack of facilities. It is expected that between 25 and 45 schools will receive the support.</p>
<p>Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Getting children active from a young age helps them build confidence and learn skills they will use in later life. Many schools already open up their facilities so their communities can benefit and I want to encourage even more to do so.</p>
<p>“By backing schools with this extra money we can make more fun activities available all year round - everything from football to dodgeball – to help children find a sport that they will enjoy and which will keep them healthy.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Active Gloucestershire has surveyed schools across the county to find out if they would be interested. Any schools that would like to register their interest should contact Active Gloucestershire.</p>
<p>The county will be one of 19 regions to receive a share of the funding.</p>
<p>Sports Minister Nigel Adams said: “It is absolutely right that every child, regardless of background, has the chance to learn how to run, jump, throw, and catch to develop a healthy lifestyle.</p>
<p>“As we outlined last year, our School Sport and Activity Action Plan will mean that all children have access to at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity through quality PE, sport sessions, clubs and facilities inside and outside of school hours.</p>
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<p>“By opening up school sports halls and playing fields to sports clubs and the wider community, we will increase opportunities, particularly for those with the least access and from the most deprived areas and deliver on our manifesto commitment.</p>
<p>“The 2022 Commonwealth Games will not just be about two weeks of sport: it will open up a wealth of opportunities for people across the West Midlands, leaving a lasting sporting legacy for the region. So I encourage young people to make the most of these opportunities, particularly by getting involved in community sport.”</p></div>'SPORT FOR ALL' HIGHLIGHTS ETHNICITY GAP IN SPORT People from black and minority ethnic backgrounds are far less likely to be physically activehttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/sport-for-all-highlights-ethnicity-gap-in-sport-people-from-black2020-01-27T12:34:05.000Z2020-01-27T12:34:05.000ZActive Gloucestershirehttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/ActiveGloucestershire<div><p>Source: <a href="https://www.sportengland.org/news/sport-for-all" target="_blank">https://www.sportengland.org/sportforall/</a></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3835689724,original{{/staticFileLink}}">sport-for-all.pdf</a></p>
<p>The deep-rooted inequalities that mean people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds are far less likely to be physically active have been laid bare in a new report.</p>
<p>‘<a href="http://www.sportengland.org/media/14355/sport-for-all.pdf">Sport for all - why ethnicity and culture matters in sport and physical activity</a>’, which we’ve published today, is the most comprehensive ever picture of how people from BAME communities are taking part in sport and physical activity.</p>
<p>The report considers:</p>
<ul>
<li>Overall levels of activity and the significant differences between different ethnic groups</li>
<li>The types of activities undertaken by adults and children from different ethnic backgrounds</li>
<li>The impact of overlaying multiple demographic characteristics upon activity levels.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>The findings are drawn from the survey responses of more than 100,000 people who contributed to <a href="https://www.sportengland.org/research/active-lives-survey/">our most recent Active Lives Adult and Children Surveys</a>.</p>
<p>The report shows the people from Asian, Black and Chinese backgrounds are far more likely to be physically inactive than those who are White.</p>
<p>People from these ethnic groups are also far less likely to volunteer in sport and enjoy the benefits associated with it.</p>
<p>Speaking at a special conference to promote the research in Birmingham this morning, our board member Chris Grant will say it's vitally important we work to close the ethnicity gap in sport participation.</p>
<p>I’m convinced that sport must be a leader, and not a follower,” he’ll add "That’s why I want to invite and challenge the whole of sport to come with us on this journey, and in doing so to be clear-sighted and honest about the ways in which we’re currently excluding and letting down whole swathes of our population. When it suits us, we’re happy to talk about the leadership role that sport can play; its capacity to inspire a nation or to transform lives. No other aspect of national life has so many column inches and broadcast hours devoted to it. But there’s an elevated level of discomfort when talking about race and culture in sport and we need to get beyond this if we are genuinely going to do something about the ethnicity gap.”</p>
<p>Presently, 62% of adults of adults in England currently meet the Chief Medical Officer’s guidelines of 150 minutes of physical activity a week. However, just 56% of Black people and 55.1% of Asian people (excluding Chinese) reach this figure. </p>
<p>Today’s conference will also explore some of the actions and projects that are already in place to bring about change, and Chris will highlight the role data can play in breaking down equality.</p>
<p>“One of the key ingredients to achieve necessary change at all levels of sport is how we use data," he'll explain “If we don’t invest both vigour and rigour in building a detailed picture of the situation as it currently exists, then we stand little chance of coming up with effective solutions that will improve peoples’ lives. And even if we were to stumble across some of those solutions – we wouldn’t be able to monitor our progress and put solid proof behind it. The research being published today is a massive step forward in this regard.”</p>
<p>Also at the event, our director of sport, Phil Smith, will insist the whole sports sector will need to work together to solve this problem. </p>
<p>“Sport for all is more than a snappy event title, it's a sentiment that cuts right to the heart of Sport England’s vision and ambition,” he’ll explain. “But we must recognise that as a sector and as a system there just hasn’t been the concerted joined up effort to understand and critically address the ethnicity gap in participation. We all have a huge opportunity to create innovative new ways of designing sport and physical activity so that many more people can see it as something for them, for people who look like them, for people from their communities. We absolutely recognise that there are complex, interconnected mixture of issues at play here and it would be wrong and reductive to think that there is one simple answer. And we also recognise there are many others who hold the expertise needed to create real change and we are committed to learning from those experts.”</p>
<p> </p>
<div class="addthis_sharing_toolbox"> </div></div>Health matters: physical activity - prevention and management of long-term conditionshttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/health-matters-physical-activity-prevention-and-management-of-lon2020-01-27T09:32:24.000Z2020-01-27T09:32:24.000ZActive Gloucestershirehttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/ActiveGloucestershire<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3835480468?profile=RESIZE_180x180&width=141"></div><div><div class="gem-c-title govuk-!-margin-top-8 gem-c-title--inverse govuk-!-margin-bottom-0">
<p class="gem-c-title__context">Guidance</p>
<h1 class="gem-c-title__text">Health matters: physical activity - prevention and management of long-term conditions</h1>
</div>
<p class="publication-header__last-changed">Published 23 January 2020</p>
<p class="publication-header__last-changed">Source: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-matters-physical-activity/health-matters-physical-activity-prevention-and-management-of-long-term-conditions">https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-matters-physical-activity/health-matters-physical-activity-prevention-and-management-of-long-term-conditions</a></p>
<p class="publication-header__last-changed"> </p>
<h2 id="summary">Summary</h2>
<p>This edition of Health Matters focuses on the benefit of physical activity for the prevention and management of long-term conditions in adults.</p>
<p>The government’s <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/advancing-our-health-prevention-in-the-2020s/advancing-our-health-prevention-in-the-2020s-consultation-document">prevention green paper</a> highlights that becoming more active is good for our mental and physical health, and reduces our risk of developing a number of health conditions. It also sets out the ambition of getting everybody active in the 2020s, including those of us who are already living with a health condition.</p>
<p>One in 3 adults in England live with a long-term health condition and they are twice as likely to be amongst the least physically active. However, evidence shows that regular physical activity can help prevent or manage many common conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers. It also helps keep symptoms under control, prevent additional conditions from developing, and reduce inequalities.</p>
<h2 id="health-benefits-of-physical-activity">Health benefits of physical activity</h2>
<p>In the new <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/physical-activity-guidelines-uk-chief-medical-officers-report">UK Chief Medical Officers’ (<abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr>) physical activity guidelines</a> launched in September 2019, the <abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr> reiterated a clear message about physical activity:</p>
<p>“If physical activity were a drug, we would refer to it as a miracle cure, due to the great many illnesses it can prevent and help treat.”</p>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94934/Active_sport-100.jpg" alt="Physical activity includes: active living, active travel, active recreation, active sport (informal sport and organised sport)" /></div>
<p>Regular physical activity provides a range of physical and mental health, and social benefits, many of which are increasing issues for individuals, communities and society. These include:</p>
<ul>
<li>reducing the risk of many long-term conditions</li>
<li>helping manage existing conditions</li>
<li>ensuring good musculoskeletal health</li>
<li>developing and maintaining physical and mental function and independence</li>
<li>supporting social inclusion</li>
<li>helping maintain a healthy weight</li>
<li>reducing inequalities for people with long-term conditions</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="physical-activity-guidelines-for-adults">Physical activity guidelines for adults</h3>
<p>The updated UK <abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr>’ physical activity guidelines refreshed the 2011 guidelines across all age groups. It also draws on new evidence to develop additional guidance on being active during pregnancy and after giving birth, and for disabled adults.</p>
<p>The guidelines state that for good physical and mental health, adults should aim to be physically active every day. Any activity is better than none, and more is better still.</p>
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyA8c-V4AM8&feature=youtu.be">Christopher Whitty - Chief Medical Officer full interview</a></p>
<p>There are 3 elements of the physical activity guidelines:</p>
<ol>
<li>strengthening activity</li>
<li>cardiovascular activity</li>
<li>sedentary time</li>
</ol>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94935/CMO_guidelines-100.jpg" alt="UK Chief Medical Officers' physical activity guidelines: build strength and improve balance, be active, and minimise sedentary time" /></div>
<h4 id="strengthening-activity">Strengthening activity</h4>
<p>Muscle strength, bone health and the ability to balance underpin physical function. Each attribute contributes independently to overall health and functional ability, and in combination they provide lifelong benefits.</p>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94936/Table-100.jpg" alt="Definitions of muscle function, bone health and balance" /></div>
<p>There is a challenge faced in physical activity promotion with unequal emphasis on the aerobic, rather than the strength components, of the <abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr>’ physical activity guidelines for adults.</p>
<p>Considered the ‘forgotten guidelines’, the <abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr>’ strengthening activity guidelines state that: adults should do activities to develop or maintain strength in the major muscle groups. Muscle strengthening activities should be done at least 2 days a week, but any strengthening activity is better than none.</p>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94937/What_counts_as_strengthening_and_balance_activities_-100.jpg" alt="What counts as strengthening and balance activities: going to the gym, yoga, carrying heavy shopping, ball games, racquet sports, aerobic circuit training" /></div>
<p>The guidelines also highlight the additional benefit of balance and flexibility exercises for older adults. Exercises that improve leg strength, balance and coordination can help people maintain and improve muscle strength and avoid falls as they age. Improving flexibility can improve posture, reduce aches and pains, lower risk of injury, and help with continuing to carry out everyday tasks.</p>
<p>Evidence suggests that <a class="govuk-link" href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/721874/MBSBA_evidence_review.pdf">muscle strength, bone strength and balance ability increase in childhood and peak in early adulthood, eventually followed by a decline</a>.</p>
<p>Therefore, muscle and bone strengthening and balance activities (<abbr title="muscle and bone strengthening and balance activities">MBSBA</abbr>) are important across the lifecourse for different reasons:</p>
<ul>
<li>to develop strength and build healthy bones during childhood and young adulthood</li>
<li>to maintain strength in adulthood</li>
<li>to delay the natural decline in muscle mass and bone density that occurs from around 50 years of age, maintaining function in later life</li>
</ul>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94938/Activities_at_different_ages-100.jpg" alt="Benefits of muscle and bone strengthening activities at different ages" /></div>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94939/Diagram_white-100.jpg" alt="Strength and balance ability over the life course and potential ages or events that may change the trajectory of decline with ageing" /></div>
<h4 id="cardiovascular-activity">Cardiovascular activity</h4>
<p>For cardiovascular activity, the guidelines state that: each week, adults should accumulate:</p>
<ul>
<li>at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity (such as brisk walking or cycling), or</li>
<li>75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity (such as running), or</li>
<li>even shorter durations of very vigorous intensity activity (such as sprinting or stair climbing), or</li>
<li>a combination of moderate, vigorous and very vigorous intensity activity</li>
</ul>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94940/Cardiovascular_physical_activity-100.jpg" alt="Cardiovascular physical activity: the UK CMOs' physical activity guidelines recommendations" /></div>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94941/Moderate_intensity_cardiovascular_physical_activity-100.jpg" alt="What counts as moderate intensity cardiovascular physical activity" /></div>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94942/Vigorous_intensity_cardiovascular_physical_activity-100.jpg" alt="What counts as vigorous intensity cardiovascular physical activity: jogging or running, walking/climbing briskly up a hill, fast cycling, aerobics, fast swimming, most competitive sports, carrying or moving heavy loads" /></div>
<h4 id="sedentary-time">Sedentary time</h4>
<p>For sedentary time, the guidelines state that: adults should aim to minimise the amount of time spent being sedentary, and when physically possible should break up long periods of inactivity with at least light physical activity.</p>
<p>There have been notable developments in the evidence base for the health effects of sedentary time in adults, with research suggesting sitting time is associated with increased all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, and cancer risk and post-treatment outcomes (including quality of life and prognosis).</p>
<h3 id="adults-with-long-term-conditions">Adults with long-term conditions</h3>
<p>In England, 15 million people are living with one or more long-term health conditions. One in 3 of the working age population have at least one long term condition and 1 in 7 have more than one.</p>
<p>Since the 2011 physical activity guidelines were published, the evidence to support the health benefits of regular physical activity for all groups has become increasingly compelling.</p>
<p>The 2019 guidelines utilised the latest evidence from systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and pooled analyses comprising hundreds of epidemiological studies with several million study participants comparing active and low activity people. Figures for different health risks cannot be compared as they come from different studies.</p>
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59ntVvTXJFc&feature=youtu.be">Dr. Zoe Williams - <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> <abbr title="general practitioner">GP</abbr> and <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> Physical Activity Clinical Champion Full Interview</a></p>
<p>Regular physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of a range of diseases including some cancers and dementia. There is also evidence that it can help to prevent some and manage many common chronic conditions and diseases, many of which are on the rise and affecting people at an earlier age, such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>some cancers</li>
<li>obesity</li>
<li>type 2 diabetes</li>
<li>cardiovascular diseases (<abbr title="cardiovascular diseases">CVD</abbr>) including coronary heart disease and stroke</li>
<li>hypertension</li>
<li>osteoarthritis and lower back pain</li>
<li>mental health conditions including depression and anxiety</li>
<li>dementia</li>
<li>chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (<abbr title="chronic obstructive pulmonary disease">COPD</abbr>) and asthma</li>
<li>musculoskeletal (<abbr title="musculoskeletal">MSK</abbr>) conditions</li>
</ul>
<p>Physical activity is as good or better than treatment with drugs for many conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and lower back pain, and has a much lower risk of any harm.</p>
<p>Physical activity can also benefit those who have <abbr title="musculoskeletal">MSK</abbr> conditions. However, many people with <abbr title="musculoskeletal">MSK</abbr> conditions often mistakenly believe that physical activity will make their conditions worse. The more conditions you have, the more you need to improve the core aspects of fitness:</p>
<ul>
<li>strength</li>
<li>stamina</li>
<li>balance</li>
</ul>
<p>You can read more about this in <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/productive-healthy-ageing-and-musculoskeletal-health/productive-healthy-ageing-and-musculoskeletal-msk-health">this previous edition of Health Matters on productive healthy ageing and <abbr title="musculoskeletal">MSK</abbr> conditions</a> and <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/healthy-ageing-consensus-statement">healthy ageing consensus statement</a> developed by <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> and the Centre for Better Ageing.</p>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94943/Lower_health_risks-100.jpg" alt="Physically active people have lower health risks" /></div>
<p>The role of physical activity for preventing and managing illness is included within many <a class="govuk-link" href="https://pathways.nice.org.uk/pathways/physical-activity#path=view%3A/pathways/physical-activity/encouraging-physical-activity-to-prevent-or-treat-specific-conditions.xml&content=view-index">National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (<abbr title="National Institute for Health and Care Excellence">NICE</abbr>) guidelines</a>, and the promotion of physical activity helps to support their implementation.</p>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/lifestyle-and-wellbeing/physical-activity">All <abbr title="National Institute for Health and Care Excellence">NICE</abbr> products on physical activity including guidance, <abbr title="National Institute for Health and Care Excellence">NICE</abbr> pathways and quality standards can be found here</a>.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="adults-with-disabilities">Adults with disabilities</h3>
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> commissioned an <a class="govuk-link" href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/748126/Physical_activity_for_general_health_benefits_in_disabled_adults.pdf">evidence review for the UK <abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr>’ guidelines</a>, specifically focusing on the scientific evidence of the health benefits of physical activity for disabled adults. Evidence shows a relationship between engaging in physical activity and positive health outcomes for disabled adults.</p>
<p>It is concluded that for substantial health gains, disabled adults should:</p>
<ul>
<li>do 150 minutes of physical activity at a moderate to vigorous intensity</li>
<li>do 2 sets of challenging strength and balance exercises 2 times per week</li>
<li>minimise sedentary time as per whole population guidelines</li>
</ul>
<p>Little evidence was found to show that physical activity is unsafe for disabled adults when it is performed at an appropriate level for their current level of activity and health conditions.</p>
<p>Individuals with uncontrolled symptoms for cardiac, metabolic, renal and some musculoskeletal conditions should seek advice before greatly increasing physical activity.</p>
<h3 id="physical-activity-during-pregnancy-and-postpartum">Physical activity during pregnancy and postpartum</h3>
<p>The benefits of physical activity during pregnancy include:</p>
<ul>
<li>reduction in hypertensive disorders</li>
<li>improved cardiorespiratory fitness</li>
<li>lower gestational weight gain</li>
<li>reduction in risk of gestational diabetes</li>
</ul>
<p>The benefits of physical activity in the postpartum period (up to one year) include:</p>
<ul>
<li>reduction in depression</li>
<li>improved emotional wellbeing</li>
<li>improved physical conditioning</li>
<li>reduction in postpartum weight gain and a faster return to pre-pregnancy weight</li>
</ul>
<p>Physical activity can safely be recommended to women during and after pregnancy and has not been found to have any negative impacts on breastfeeding postpartum.</p>
<h2 id="wider-role-and-benefits-of-physical-activity">Wider role and benefits of physical activity</h2>
<p>In addition to supporting good physical and mental health and functioning, regular physical activity also contributes to a range of wider social, environmental and economic benefits for individuals, communities and wider society. Addressing physical activity can also benefit a broad range of wider priorities at a local level, such as reducing air pollution and increasing social cohesion.</p>
<p>Wider benefits come primarily from physical activities undertaken in a community setting. such as walking, cycling, active recreation, sport and play. They include:</p>
<ul>
<li>improved learning and attainment</li>
<li>increasing productivity in the workplace</li>
<li>managing stress</li>
<li>self-efficacy</li>
<li>improved sleep</li>
<li>the development of social skills</li>
<li>better social interaction</li>
</ul>
<p>The relevance and importance of these benefits vary according to life stage and other factors.</p>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94944/Diagram_green-100.jpg" alt="The wider physical wellbeing, mental wellbeing and individual development benefits of physical activity" /></div>
<p>Social prescribing enables individuals presenting through primary health care to be signposted and connected to local organisations, groups and activities. There are social prescribing schemes that focus on physical activity and staff with knowledge of the resources available in the local community match individuals to opportunities and support them to engage in activities. In some social prescribing schemes, health trainers and health champions signpost and support clients to become involved in community activities.</p>
<h3 id="social-and-community-development">Social and community development</h3>
<p>Sport England’s <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.sportengland.org/research/benefits-of-sport/sport-outcomes-evidence-review/">Sport Outcomes Evidence Review</a> sets out how sport and physical activity can contribute to the government’s <a class="govuk-link" href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/486622/Sporting_Future_ACCESSIBLE.pdf">Sporting Future strategy</a> outcomes. One of the outcomes is social and community development, which is described as being about “helping to build stronger communities by bringing people together, often from different backgrounds, to make them feel better about where they live, improve community links and cohesion, and build social capital.”</p>
<p>The evidence review found that sport and physical activity can lead to social and community development through:</p>
<ul>
<li>building stronger communities by bringing people from different backgrounds together via participating, volunteering and spectating</li>
<li>improving community links, levels of cohesion and social capital</li>
<li>improving residents’ sense of belonging in an area</li>
<li>feeling more connected to your neighbourhood or community</li>
<li>increasing levels of social trust</li>
</ul>
<p>There is an increasing importance of taking a whole systems approach to addressing public health challenges, including physical inactivity and obesity. Local government plays an important leadership role in bringing together statutory, voluntary and private sectors together and engage their populations to build confident and connected communities as part of efforts to improve health and reduce health inequalities.</p>
<p>Community-centred approaches seek to mobilise the assets within communities, increase people’s control over their health and promote equity. There is a diverse range of practice, evidence-based approaches that can be used by local leaders, commissioners and service providers to work with communities.</p>
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> has developed a <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-and-wellbeing-a-guide-to-community-centred-approaches">guide that outlines evidence-based community-centred approaches to health and wellbeing</a> and <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-matters-health-and-wellbeing-community-centred-approaches/health-matters-community-centred-approaches-for-health-and-wellbeing">this previous edition of Health Matters</a> details a whole systems approach to obesity and <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr>’s professional guide to support local approaches to promoting a healthy weight.</p>
<h3 id="wider-economic-benefits">Wider economic benefits</h3>
<p>In terms of wider economic benefits, physical activity can lead to cost savings for the health and social care system. This is because in some cases, long term conditions can lead to greater dependency on home, residential and ultimately nursing care. However, physical activity supports greater independence and reduced requirement of support, including these statutory services, therefore leading to financial cost savings.</p>
<h3 id="the-benefits-of-active-travel">The benefits of active travel</h3>
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> conducted an <a class="govuk-link" href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/757756/Cycling_and_walking_for_individual_and_population_health_benefits.pdf">evidence review</a> – intended for health and social care policy makers, decision makers and commissioners – which looks at the impact of walking and/or cycling on different health outcomes. The review found that walking and cycling benefit health in a number of ways, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>improving metabolic health and reducing the risk of premature mortality</li>
<li>reducing risk factors for various long term conditions, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, some cancers and type 2 diabetes</li>
<li>providing mental health and neurological benefits, including reduced risk of dementia, improved sleep quality, and a greater sense of wellbeing</li>
</ul>
<p>Active travel also reduces road congestion and air pollution, which provides both environmental benefits and greater health benefits for the general population.</p>
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> has an <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/active-travel-a-briefing-for-local-authorities">active travel briefing for local authorities</a> – including transport planners and public health practitioners – which sets out a range of actions from overall policy to practical implementation.</p>
<h2 id="the-scale-of-physical-inactivity">The scale of physical inactivity</h2>
<p>In England:</p>
<ul>
<li>1 in 3 (34%) men are not active enough for good health</li>
<li>almost 1 in 2 (42%) women are not active enough for good health</li>
<li>1 in 5 (21%) men are classed as physically inactive</li>
<li>1 in 4 (25%) women are classed as physically inactive</li>
<li>44% of disabled adults are physically inactive</li>
<li>only 34% of men and 24% of women undertake muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week</li>
</ul>
<p>‘Not active enough for good health’ means not achieving the <abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr>’ guideline of 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week.</p>
<p>‘Physically inactive’ is defined as doing less than 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week.</p>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94945/How_active_are_we-100.jpg" alt="How active are we?" /></div>
<p>Insufficient physical activity is associated with:</p>
<ul>
<li>1 in 6 deaths in the UK</li>
<li>up to 40% of many long-term conditions, including preventable conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers</li>
<li>around 30% of later life functional limitation and falls</li>
</ul>
<p>This is not a new issue. Over the last few decades, trends such as increased car ownership and use, reduced manual element of jobs, and increased home-based entertainment has designed physical activity out of people’s lives. This has made us the first generation that needs to make a proactive choice to be physically active.</p>
<p>According to the World Health Organisation (<abbr title="World Health Organisation">WHO</abbr>), physical inactivity is in the top 5 non-communicable disease (<abbr title="non-communicable disease">NCD</abbr>) risk factors for mortality in high income countries. The <abbr title="World Health Organisation">WHO</abbr> Global Non-Communicable Disease Action Plan 2013 to 2020 sets targets for improvements in the prevalence of <abbr title="non-communicable disease">NCD</abbr> risk factors, including physical inactivity. The Richmond Group of Charities commissioned the <abbr title="British Heart Foundation">BHF</abbr> Centre on Population Approaches for Non-Communicable Disease Prevention to run a research project, which translates these <abbr title="World Health Organisation">WHO</abbr> targets into a UK health context.</p>
<p>This was conducted in a 2-stage process: a modelling project to estimate the <abbr title="non-communicable disease">NCD</abbr> burden in England between 2010 and 2025 if the <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.who.int/beat-ncds/take-action/targets/en/"><abbr title="World Health Organisation">WHO</abbr> 25 by 25 targets</a> are met, and a policy review of the potential prevention-based population-level interventions that are available, including those for reducing physical inactivity.</p>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p>Read the <a class="govuk-link" href="https://richmondgroupofcharities.org.uk/sites/default/files/the_promise_study_final_report.pdf">UK PROMISE study</a> to find out more about the potential of these interventions.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="physical-activity-and-health-inequalities">Physical activity and health inequalities</h3>
<p>There are inequalities in physical activity across socioeconomic status and the protected characteristics, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>age</li>
<li>gender</li>
<li>disability</li>
<li>race</li>
<li>sexual orientation and gender identity</li>
</ul>
<p>These compound or exacerbate other inequalities and lead to physical inactivity being more prevalent in certain groups.</p>
<p>Data on local inequalities in physical activity are available from the <a class="govuk-link" href="https://fingertips.phe.org.uk/profile/physical-activity"><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> physical activity data tool</a>.</p>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/95044/Inequalities_in_physical_activity_-100.jpg" alt="Inequalities in physical activity" /></div>
<p>Inactive people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds are also more likely to undertake unhealthy behaviours such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and have a poor diet.</p>
<p>A rapid review of the evidence base on physical activity for general health benefits for disabled adults found that no evidence exists that suggests appropriate physical activity is a risk. It also found analogous health benefits for disabled people of engaging in physical activity as for the rest of the adult population.</p>
<p>The UK <abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr>’ guidelines say that for both adults with and without disabilities, the risk of adverse events from physical activity is relatively low and the health benefits accrued outweigh the risks.</p>
<p>For people with mental health conditions, inequalities in physical activity is associated with inequalities in physical health. Amongst people with severe mental disorders, there is a high prevalence of low physical activity and 12 hours on average is spent on sedentary activities everyday. This can, in part, lead to crucial physical health disparities and premature mortality, reducing their life span by 10 to 20 years.</p>
<p>The World Health Organisation (<abbr title="World Health Organisation">WHO</abbr>) has <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.who.int/mental_health/evidence/guidelines_physical_health_and_severe_mental_disorders/en/">guidelines that provide evidence-based recommendations</a> to practitioners on how to recognise and manage physical health conditions in adults with severe mental disorders.</p>
<h3 id="everybody-active-every-day">Everybody active, every day</h3>
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/everybody-active-every-day-a-framework-to-embed-physical-activity-into-daily-life">Everybody active, every day</a> is the national physical activity framework co-produced with over 1,000 local and national stakeholders, for national and local action to address the physical inactivity epidemic. It is based on international evidence of ‘what works’ to increase population activity.</p>
<p>The framework sets out that if we want everyone to be active every day, physical activity needs to be made easy, fun and affordable. Physcial activity and active recreation must be available to all, in every community across England.</p>
<p>Creating this vision requires actions across 4 domains at both a national and local level:</p>
<ol>
<li>Active society: creating a social movement</li>
<li>Moving professionals: activating networks of expertise</li>
<li>Active environments: creating the right spaces</li>
<li>Moving at scale: interventions that make us active</li>
</ol>
<p>These 4 domains of action are supported by the <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.who.int/ncds/prevention/physical-activity/global-action-plan-2018-2030/en/"><abbr title="World Health Organisation">WHO</abbr> Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018 to 2030</a>.</p>
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/everybody-active-every-day-2-year-update">Everybody active, every day: 2 years on</a> reviewed the progress of these 4 domains of action 2 years on from the framework’s implementation. <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.icf.com/insights/health/everybody-active-every-day">This ICF report</a> published in 2018 also review the implementation of the framework at a national and local level. A ‘5 years on’ review will be published in early 2020.</p>
<h2 id="the-barriers-to-physical-activity-for-those-with-long-term-conditions">The barriers to physical activity for those with long-term conditions</h2>
<p>Insight work has found that 61% of people with long-term conditions and 68% of people with multimorbidities are not content with their physical activity levels and wish to be more active.</p>
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="https://richmondgroupofcharities.org.uk/">The Richmond Group of Charities’ Sport and Physical Activity project</a> identified a need for insight into physical activity and long-term conditions. It commissioned research with individuals with long-term conditions and people close to these individuals, to understand the barriers that prevent those with long-term conditions from engaging in physical activity, as well as other factors.</p>
<p>The research found that <a class="govuk-link" href="https://richmondgroupofcharities.org.uk/sites/default/files/richmond_group_debrief_final_1.pdf">people with long-term conditions experience both internal and external barriers to exercise</a>. Internal barriers come from within those with long-term conditions themselves, and external barriers are factors external to those with long-term conditions, which make it harder for them to exercise. The latter are often practical or logistical.</p>
<p>Internal barriers are perceived to be greater than external barriers and include:</p>
<ul>
<li>pain before, during or after physical activity</li>
<li>feeling tired before, during or after physical activity</li>
<li>breathlessness before, during or after physical activity</li>
<li>lack of motivation</li>
<li>not knowing what types of activity are right for them or their condition</li>
<li>fear of hurting themselves</li>
<li>feeling embarrassed</li>
<li>feeling unsafe in public spaces</li>
</ul>
<p>Within this, there is agreement that barriers arising from the symptoms of long-term conditions are greatest, such as pain, feeling tired and breathlessness.</p>
<p>Both exercise and physical activity are seen as “not for people like me” amongst inactive participants with multiple long-term conditions. However, the research found that the majority of people with a long-term health condition want to be active.</p>
<p>Almost all qualitative participants from this research found it much easier to cite barriers to physical activity than benefits. The benefits cited most commonly were psychological, including increased self-esteem and confidence, and improved mood and motivation. Social benefits are also important for many, such as getting out of the house and seeing people, which was seen to support the psychological benefits.</p>
<h2 id="physical-activity-resources-programmes-and-campaigns-for-the-public">Physical activity resources, programmes and campaigns for the public</h2>
<h3 id="oneyou-resources-active-10-and-couch-to-5k">OneYou resources: Active 10 and Couch to 5K</h3>
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> and the <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr>’ <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/">OneYou resource</a> exists to help the public make small changes that fit their life, so that they feel better and healthier everyday. As part of OneYou, Active 10 and Couch to 5K are resources that support the important physical activity message that ‘some is good, more is better’ and that you can start small and build your activity up. A <a class="govuk-link" href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/639030/Health_benefits_of_10_mins_brisk_walking_evidence_summary.pdf">rapid evidence review</a> found that a reduced level of health benefits can be achieved through activity at less than the optimum 150 minutes, with some benefits shown even at levels of 10 minutes or more of at least moderate intensity activity per day.</p>
<p>Active 10 is a free walking tracker app that can be used to monitor brisk walking, set daily goals, and find out how to increase physical activity. It has been downloaded over 800,000 times and since its launch it has remained popular with a rating of 4.3 and 3.3 out of 5 on the iOS and Google Play App stores, respectively.</p>
<p>Brisk walking is a moderate intensity physical activity and evidence-based intervention for promoting physical activity. For currently inactive individuals, evidence shows the following health benefits could be achieved from 10 minutes of brisk walking per day for 7 days:</p>
<ul>
<li>increased physical fitness</li>
<li>greater ease of performance of everyday physical activities</li>
<li>improved mood</li>
<li>improved quality of life</li>
<li>increased body leanness and healthier weight</li>
<li>15% reduction in risk of early death</li>
</ul>
<p>The Couch to 5K app guides people through a 9-week programme by encouraging them to run 3 times a week. The app was designed to support people who have never run before, regardless of age.</p>
<p>It helps people to increase the distance they run incrementally, so that by the they arrive at week 9 they are encouraged to run for half an hour, which is approximately 5K. Over 3 million people have downloaded the app, and its rating on the app store continues to stay high at 4.5 out of 5.</p>
<h3 id="nhs-health-check"><abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Health Check</h3>
<p>The <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-health-check/"><abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Health Check</a> is a health check-up for adults aged 40 to 74 in England, which plays an important role in the prevention and early detection of <abbr title="cardiovascular diseases">CVD</abbr>. According to the <abbr title="World Health Organisation">WHO</abbr>, <abbr title="cardiovascular diseases">CVD</abbr> is the leading cause of death globally, but an estimated 50 to 80% are preventable as they are caused by modifiable risk factors. One of these risk factors is low physical activity (less than 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity).</p>
<p>Everyone having an <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Health Check should receive tailored lifestyle advice and access to local services, including physical activity services and the <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Diabetes Prevention Programme (<abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> <abbr title="Diabetes Prevention Programme">DPP</abbr>).</p>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p>Find out more about the role of the <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Health Check in promoting physical activity in <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/using-the-nhs-health-check-programme-to-prevent-cvd/using-the-world-leading-nhs-health-check-programme-to-prevent-cvd">this previous edition of Health Matters</a>.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="nhs-diabetes-prevention-programme"><abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Diabetes Prevention Programme</h3>
<p>Type 2 diabetes is a major cause of premature mortality, with around 22,000 people with diabetes dying early each year in England. Overweight and obesity, driven by the obesogenic environment and physical inactivity, are significant risk factors in the development of type 2 diabetes.</p>
<p>The <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> <abbr title="Diabetes Prevention Programme">DPP</abbr> is a joint commitment from <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr>, <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> England and Diabetes UK. The programme provides evidence-based behavioural interventions at scale for individuals identified – for some through the <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Health Check – as being at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.</p>
<p>One of the 3 core goals that underpins the <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> <abbr title="Diabetes Prevention Programme">DPP</abbr> behavioural intervention is: achievement of the <abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr>’ physical activity recommendations. This may be through recommending the use of apps such as Active 10 and Couch to 5K to start adding small amounts of physical activity into your life.</p>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p>Find out more about the role of the <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> <abbr title="Diabetes Prevention Programme">DPP</abbr> in increasing physical activity to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-matters-preventing-type-2-diabetes/health-matters-preventing-type-2-diabetes">this previous edition of Health Matters</a>.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="we-are-undefeatable-campaign">We Are Undefeatable campaign</h3>
<p>The <a class="govuk-link" href="https://weareundefeatable.co.uk/">We Are Undefeatable campaign</a> – led by a collaboration of 15 leading health and social care charities and supported by <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> and Sport England – is designed to inspire and motivate people living with long-term conditions to get active in a way that’s right for them.</p>
<p>It is designed with the perspective and lived experience of people with health conditions, and provides an opportunity to stimulate positive discussion and action, and identify and address barriers to engaging this audience.</p>
<p>The main audience for the campaign is:</p>
<ul>
<li>people who are doing little physical activity and those who are doing almost none at all</li>
<li>male and female, 30 to 64 years old and beyond</li>
<li>broad range of health conditions and different</li>
</ul>
<p>The campaign drives sustainable attitude and behaviour changes, therefore addressing some of the factors that people with long-term conditions identify as barriers to physical activity.</p>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="https://weareundefeatable.co.uk/login">Access the campaign assets here</a>.</p>
</div>
<h2 id="physical-activity-initiatives-and-training-for-healthcare-professionals">Physical activity initiatives and training for healthcare professionals</h2>
<p>More than 1 in 10 people visit their <abbr title="general practitioner">GP</abbr> every 2 weeks and there are 1.2 million health-related visits to a community pharmacy every year. In most cases, those who are regularly engaging with healthcare professionals have, or are at risk of, developing health conditions and are more likely to be inactive. In addition, 1 in 4 people would be more active if advised by a healthcare professional, so healthcare professionals play a unique role in supporting people to be more physically active.</p>
<p>However, a 2017 survey of 1,000 <abbr title="general practitioners">GPs</abbr> found that:</p>
<ul>
<li>80% of <abbr title="general practitioners">GPs</abbr> in England are unfamiliar with the national physical activity guidelines</li>
<li>less than half (44%) are confident in raising physical activity with patients</li>
<li>over half (55%) had done no specific training on physical activity</li>
</ul>
<p>A 2017 survey of 552 physiotherapists found that:</p>
<ul>
<li>the activity status of patients is not routinely assessed</li>
<li>60% knew the 150 minutes recommendation, but only 16% knew all 3 elements of the guidelines</li>
<li>they did not routinely signpost to further sources of physical activity support</li>
</ul>
<div class="img"><img src="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/image_data/file/94947/Support_healthcare-100.jpg" alt="Support healthcare professionals to discuss physical activity with patients" /></div>
<p>This is, in part, due to a system issue around providing adequate training for healthcare professionals on the guidelines and physical activity for people newly diagnosed with a long-term condition or in treatment.</p>
<p>Healthcare professionals may also feel that they cannot speak to patients about physical activity when they are seeing them about certain symptoms they are experiencing due to their long-term condition, such as fatigue and pain. They may also face time difficulties with regards to fitting a conversation about physical activity into a 10-minute appointment.</p>
<h3 id="moving-healthcare-professionals-programme">Moving Healthcare Professionals Programme</h3>
<p>The <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.sportengland.org/our-work/health-and-inactivity/moving-healthcare-professionals/">Moving Healthcare Professionals Programme</a> (<abbr title="Moving Healthcare Professionals Programme">MHPP</abbr>) is a national partnership programme led by Sport England and <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr>. It is a whole-system educational approach to embed prevention and physical activity promotion into clinical practice, helping to address the barrier of healthcare professionals not speaking to their patients about the benefits of physical activity due to either lack of knowledge, skills or confidence.</p>
<p>The programme provides peer-led training and is developing practical resources to support healthcare professionals implement the <abbr title="National Institute for Health and Care Excellence">NICE</abbr> guidance on physical activity, and guidance for treatment of a breadth of conditions that recommend physical activity.</p>
<p>There are multiple strands to the programme:</p>
<ul>
<li>training existing healthcare professionals</li>
<li>development of resources, such as Moving Medicine (outlined below)</li>
<li>upskilling the next generation</li>
<li>testing innovative ideas</li>
</ul>
<p>Further information on each of these strands can be found on <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.sportengland.org/our-work/health-and-inactivity/moving-healthcare-professionals/">Sport England’s website</a>.</p>
<p>Upskilling <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> workforces through the <abbr title="Moving Healthcare Professionals Programme">MHPP</abbr> provides the opportunity to:</p>
<ul>
<li>address a recognised knowledge and skills gap across healthcare professionals and their capability to implement physical activity guidelines</li>
<li>provide the workforce with access to evidence-based training and resources proven to increase their knowledge and confidence, and support their practice</li>
<li>improve management of patients with over 30 long-term conditions that physical activity is known to improve</li>
<li>help reduce service demand and costs to the <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr></li>
</ul>
<p>Recognised by the <abbr title="World Health Organisation">WHO</abbr> as good practice, a second, 3-year programme was launched in the government’s prevention green paper. It will continue to provide free, evidence-based training and resources to healthcare professionals across their careers.</p>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p>Read this edition’s <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/case-studies/active-hospitals">case study on the Oxford University Hospitals <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Trust’s Active Hospitals pilot</a>, which aimed to explore integrating physical activity interventions in a secondary care setting.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="moving-medicine">Moving Medicine</h3>
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="http://movingmedicine.ac.uk/">Moving Medicine</a> is an initiative led by the Faculty of Sport and Exercise Medicine UK, in partnership with <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> and Sport England. It is a digital toolkit for clinicians and allied health professionals that is part of the Moving Healthcare Professionals programme, and has been <a class="govuk-link" href="https://movingmedicine.ac.uk/about/contributors/">developed in collaboration with experts, professional bodies and charities</a> representing patients and healthcare professionals in each disease area.</p>
<p>The toolkit provides <a class="govuk-link" href="https://movingmedicine.ac.uk/prescribing-movement/">accessible, evidence-based and condition-specific information</a> to help give advice on physical activity at all stages of a patient’s treatment pathway for 10 common conditions:</p>
<ul>
<li>cancer</li>
<li><abbr title="chronic obstructive pulmonary disease">COPD</abbr></li>
<li>dementia</li>
<li>depression</li>
<li>falls and frailty</li>
<li>inflammatory rheumatic disease</li>
<li>ischaemic heart disease</li>
<li><abbr title="musculoskeletal">MSK</abbr> pain</li>
<li>primary prevention</li>
<li>type 2 diabetes</li>
</ul>
<p>The toolkit provides what is needed for a 1 minute, 5 minute and longer conversation, complete with step-by-step guides, behavioural change insights, and all the evidence to back it up. This helps to alleviate the barrier of time constraints that healthcare professionals face when speaking to their patients, allowing them to incorporate physical activity into their conversation.</p>
<p>Through the work of the Moving Healthcare Professionals programme and others, we are seeing changes in the awareness and knowledge of healthcare professionals. We are seeing them becoming empowered to embed physical activity into the care of disabled people and people with long-term health conditions, to improve their health and quality of life.</p>
<h3 id="physical-activity-clinical-champions-training">Physical Activity Clinical Champions training</h3>
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> and Sport England’s Physical Activity Clinical Champions training involves a national network of 50 healthcare professionals providing a free, peer-to-peer, standardised training package to over 22,000 other healthcare professionals. Clinical champions are paid on a sessional basis to provide the training, which <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> has peer-reviewed, sponsored and updated to match the new <abbr title="Chief Medical Officer">CMO</abbr> guidelines.</p>
<p>An independent evaluation has showed that this training:</p>
<ul>
<li>increased knowledge – 1 in 4 (25%) of those who did not know the guidelines recalled them correctly at 4 and 12 weeks</li>
<li>increase confidence – those ‘extremely confidence’ increased from 16% to 30% at 4 weeks</li>
<li>increase regularity of discussions – 40% had more physical activity conversations with patients</li>
</ul>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="https://publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk/2018/06/21/clinical-champions-embedding-physical-activity-into-routine-clinical-care/">Read this blog to find out more about clinical champions training</a>.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="e-learning-courses">E-learning courses</h3>
<p>There are several other digital resources that <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr>, in collaboration with partners, has developed to support healthcare professionals in championing the benefits of physical activity with their patients.</p>
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr>, Health Education England and Sport England have developed a <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.e-lfh.org.uk/programmes/physical-activity-and-health/">physical activity and health e-learning course</a>, which is hosted on the e-Learning for Healthcare hub. The course will familiarise the learner with:</p>
<ul>
<li>the UK <abbr title="Chief Medical Officers">CMOs</abbr>’ physical activity guidelines</li>
<li>the underpinning evidence base</li>
<li>how to incorporate the guidelines into their daily clinical care</li>
</ul>
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr>’s <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.e-lfh.org.uk/programmes/all-our-health/">All Our Health e-learning session on physical activity</a> gives health and care professionals an overview of the topic and provides evidence, data and resources to help professionals in embedding physical activity into daily life. This supports system-wide priorities on prevention, including those within the <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Long Term Plan and prevention green paper.</p>
<h3 id="royal-college-of-general-practitioners-3-year-priority">Royal College of General Practitioners 3-year priority</h3>
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> is working with the Royal College of General Practitioners (<abbr title="Royal College of General Practitioners">RCGP</abbr>) on their 3-year priority on physical activity. This includes their <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.rcgp.org.uk/clinical-and-research/resources/toolkits/physical-activity-and-lifestyle.aspx">Physical Activity and Lifestyle Toolkit</a> and <a class="govuk-link" href="https://r1.dotdigital-pages.com/p/49LX-5IR/active-practice-charter">Active Practice Charter</a>, both developed in partnership with Sport England. The toolkit can be downloaded to help healthcare professionals embed physical activity within the conversations they’re having with patients. The charter inspires and celebrates <abbr title="general practitioner">GP</abbr> practices that are taking steps to increase activity in their patients and staff, and aims to support around 8,000 <abbr title="general practitioner">GP</abbr> practices in the UK.</p>
<p>More resources and condition-specific resources for healthcare professionals can be found on the <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.rcgp.org.uk/clinical-and-research/resources/toolkits/physical-activity-and-lifestyle.aspx"><abbr title="Royal College of General Practitioners">RCGP</abbr> website</a>.</p>
<p>The <abbr title="Royal College of General Practitioners">RCGP</abbr> and parkrun UK also launched the <a class="govuk-link" href="https://r1.dotdigital-pages.com/p/49LX-52M/parkrunpractice">parkrun practice initiative</a> in June 2018, which asks <abbr title="general practitioners">GPs</abbr> to affiliate themselves with their local parkrun and become parkrun practices. Involvement in this initiative will help practices:</p>
<ul>
<li>improve the health and wellbeing of practice staff</li>
<li>improve the health and wellbeing of patients and carers, particularly those who are inactive or living with long-term conditions, reducing the need for lifelong medication</li>
<li>raise awareness amongst the parkrun community of services that practices provide</li>
<li>contribute to the development of a local community and environment that is centred around wellness generation</li>
<li>support the UK-wide movement to scale up social prescribing activities</li>
</ul>
<p>More than 16% of <abbr title="general practitioner">GP</abbr> practices in the UK have registered to become a parkrun practice to date.</p>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p>Read this edition’s <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/case-studies/the-parkrun-practice-initiative">case study on the parkrun practice initiative</a> to find out more.</p>
</div>
<h2 id="call-to-action">Call to action</h2>
<h3 id="the-role-for-healthcare-professionals">The role for healthcare professionals</h3>
<p>As discussed above, healthcare professionals play a unique role in supporting people living with, or at risk of developing, long-term health conditions to get more physically active.</p>
<p>With this in mind, healthcare professionals should:</p>
<ul>
<li>increase their knowledge of individuals’, communities’ and populations’ needs related to physical activity</li>
<li>use the resources and the services available in the health and wellbeing system to promote physical activity, including those outlined in the section above</li>
<li>incorporate physical activity conversations and brief advice into routine care</li>
<li>understand specific activities or interventions that can prevent physical inactivity and signpost to their local offers</li>
<li>help create a culture and process of physical activity within their workplaces, for example using the Active Practice Charter</li>
</ul>
<p>They can have an impact on the individual level by:</p>
<ul>
<li>providing high-quality brief interventions for physical activity behaviour changes</li>
<li>being familiar with the important messages</li>
<li>being familiar with local physical activity options</li>
<li>becoming a physical activity role model</li>
</ul>
<p><a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9jDz-lmb5U&feature=youtu.be">Caroline Abrahams - Charity Director at Age UK Full Interview</a></p>
<p>Healthcare professionals also play an important role in using the <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Health Check as an opportunity to assess physical activity levels using the <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/general-practice-physical-activity-questionnaire-gppaq">general practice physical activity questionnaire</a> (<abbr title="general practice physical activity questionnaire">GPPAQ</abbr>). They can subsequently provide brief advice or behaviour change support.</p>
<p>Social prescribing is another important area that <abbr title="general practitioners">GPs</abbr> and other healthcare professionals should focus on, referring people to ‘activities’ or services in their community instead of offering only medical solutions.</p>
<p>The <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.longtermplan.nhs.uk/"><abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> Long Term Plan</a> sets out that through social prescribing, the range of support available to people will widen, diversify and become accessible across the country. Over 1,000 social prescribing link workers will be in place by 2020 to 2021, so that over 900,000 people can benefit from social prescribing by 2023 to 2024. This is reiterated in the <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/advancing-our-health-prevention-in-the-2020s/advancing-our-health-prevention-in-the-2020s-consultation-document">prevention green paper</a>.</p>
<h3 id="the-role-for-local-authorities">The role for local authorities</h3>
<p>Local authorities are the main investors in physical activity in local areas, and should adopt a whole systems approach to ensure that physical activity is embedded across their relevant functions.</p>
<p>A local whole systems approach enables local stakeholders, including communities, to come together, share an understanding of the reality of the challenge, consider how the local system is operating and where there are the greatest opportunities for change. Stakeholders agree actions and decide as a network how to work together in an integrated way to bring about sustainable, long term systems change.</p>
<p>However, leading on taking a whole systems approach to physical activity is just one part of local authorities’ role, as they also have a wider role to play in:</p>
<ul>
<li>understanding local physical activity levels and inequalities</li>
<li>providing and leading action to create physical activity opportunities</li>
<li>linking the whole systems approach to other local authority agendas</li>
</ul>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p>You can find out more about the local whole systems approach to obesity programme in <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-matters-whole-systems-approach-to-obesity/health-matters-whole-systems-approach-to-obesity">this previous edition of Health Matters</a>.</p>
</div>
<p>Building on this work, <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> is working with Sport England to support their <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.sportengland.org/our-work/local-delivery-pilots-community-of-learning/">Local Delivery Pilots</a>.</p>
<p>Local authorities should work with multiple organisations and groups, for example:</p>
<ul>
<li>local enterprise partnerships to invest in cycling and walking infrastructure to support local businesses with active travel and active retail</li>
<li>leisure, fitness and sport providers to maximise the potential of local physical activity assets</li>
<li>community groups to activate and maximise the potential of parks and green spaces</li>
</ul>
<div class="call-to-action">
<p><abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr> has produced a <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/523460/Working_Together_to_Promote_Active_Travel_A_briefing_for_local_authorities.pdf">briefing for local authorities on working together to promote active travel</a>.</p>
<p>Use <abbr title="Public Health England">PHE</abbr>’s <a class="govuk-link" href="http://www.phoutcomes.info/">Public health and outcomes framework</a> and <a class="govuk-link" href="https://fingertips.phe.org.uk/profile/physical-activity">Physical Activity Fingertip tool</a> to identify the percentage of physically active and inactive adults in your local area.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="the-role-for-nhs-organisations">The role for <abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> organisations</h3>
<p><abbr title="National Health Service">NHS</abbr> organisations have an important role to play in the management and prevention of long-term conditions in adults through physical activity. Their role involves:</p>
<ul>
<li>identifying a senior lead for physical activity in line with <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/qs183/chapter/Quality-statement-1-Physical-activity-champions"><abbr title="National Institute for Health and Care Excellence">NICE</abbr> guidance</a></li>
<li>sharing and encouraging training leads to include Clinical Champions training sessions within the staff training sessions</li>
<li>promoting the use of the e-learning and Moving Medicine resources</li>
<li>creating a culture that promotes physical activity, including supporting national and local campaigns such as <a class="govuk-link" href="https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/">One You</a>, <a class="govuk-link" href="https://weareundefeatable.co.uk/">We Are Undefeatable</a> and <a class="govuk-link" href="https://r1.dotdigital-pages.com/p/49LX-52M/parkrunpractice">parkrun practices</a></li>
<li>creating links with local physical activity providers (for example, local Active Partnership, Walking for Health)</li>
</ul></div>Gloucester Beat The Street 2019 resulted in 9% decrease in inactivityhttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/gloucester-beat-the-street-2019-resulted-in-9-decrease-in-inactiv2020-01-24T21:11:26.000Z2020-01-24T21:11:26.000ZActive Gloucestershirehttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/ActiveGloucestershire<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3832338139?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=254"></div><div><p><strong>Introduction</strong></p>
<p>Beat the Street is an inclusive, fun and motivating initiative that connects people with their local environment and encourages individuals to walk, cycle or scoot with family or friends to collect points. Beat the Street Gloucester aims to increase physical activity amongst children and adults.</p>
<p><strong>Methodology</strong></p>
<p>Between June and August 2019 Beat the Street was delivered across Gloucester City Residents were encouraged to register their smartcard online During registration, participants completed a questionnaire which included a range of demographic questions and a physical activity questionnaire Smartcards swiped on Beat Boxes during the game also register data of<br /> the player.</p>
<p>Follow up surveys took place at the end and six months after the game Beat the Street Gloucester</p>
<p><em>“It encouraged me to buy a bike, and get out and about It gave me a goal, and a challenge It gave me an opportunity to meet new people and build on existing friendships I fell in love with cycling again It put a smile on my face and joy in my heart It put colour back into my life and stopped the anxiety from preventing me enjoying life again I really hope BTS runs again next year, for me the prize was the activity itself My reward was the simply enjoying the moment Female, aged 40-49"</em></p>
<p><strong>Who took part</strong></p>
<p>In total, 10,181 people took part in Beat the Street Gloucester (8% of the population). 3,748 players registered online and 412 people completed a post game follow up survey Of those who registered 58% were female, 48% were aged 11% and under and 11% had a long term health condition.</p>
<p><strong>Findings</strong></p>
<p>• There was a 9% decrease in the proportion of adults reporting less than 30 minutes of activity per week<br /> • There was a 3% increase in the proportion of adults reporting 150 minutes of activity per week<br /> • There was a 26% decrease in the proportion of children undertaking less than an average of 30 minutes of activity per day<br /> • There was a 22% increase in the proportion of children undertaking an average 60 minutes of activity per day<br /> • Beat the Street motivated people to be more active<br /> • People felt more connected to other people or their local environment</p>
<p><em>“Beat the Street took me to places I have never been to even after living here for over 60 years! It’s great meeting and chatting to strangers” Male, aged 60 69</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3832345689,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Beat the Street Gloucester Overview.pdf</a></em></p>
<p><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}3832346139,original{{/staticFileLink}}">BtS Gloucester Report 2019.pdf</a></em></p></div>Does increasing girls' and women's participation in physical activity improve their wellbeing?https://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/articles/does-increasing-girls-and-women-s-participation-in-physical-activ2020-01-24T20:32:47.000Z2020-01-24T20:32:47.000ZActive Gloucestershirehttps://www.wecanmoveinsight.net/members/ActiveGloucestershire<div><p>Source: <a href="https://whatworkswellbeing.org/blog/does-increasing-girls-and-womens-participation-in-physical-activity-improve-their-wellbeing/">https://whatworkswellbeing.org/blog/does-increasing-girls-and-womens-participation-in-physical-activity-improve-their-wellbeing/</a></p>
<p><em>This week’s blog come from Spirit of 2012, an organisation set up to recreate the spirit of pride and positivity that defined the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Here they outline the evaluation findings from the Sporting Equality Fund, grants distributed by the Scottish government to get more women and girls participating in physical activity. </em></p>
<p>On International Women’s Day in March, we published our evaluation of the Sporting Equality Fund, a £325,000 set of grants from the Scottish government to get more girls and women participating in physical activity. Fourteen organisations were awarded up to £25,000 for year-long projects – all were asked to look at how participation increased wellbeing. Across the fund as a whole, we saw average life satisfaction go up from 6.9 to 8.0 out of 10, with similar rises across the other three ONS wellbeing indicators. </p>
<h4><strong>SURPRISING IMPACT ON SENSE OF FEELING LIFE ‘WORTHWHILE’</strong></h4>
<p>We had predicted that life satisfaction (12%) and happiness (8%) would both be areas where there was potential for change, as these domains are traditionally associated with active lifestyles. However, there were similar increases in the number of participants who felt that their life was worthwhile (11%) – something we might expect more of volunteering projects.</p>
<h4><strong>LOWEST STARTING POINT SHOWED BIGGEST IMPROVEMENTS</strong></h4>
<p>Most of the projects in this fund were working with small numbers of participants, so we must be careful about reading too much into the data. However, those projects that saw the biggest changes in wellbeing – across all domains – tended to be those where the average starting point had been lowest. These were often projects working with small groups of women and girls, with complex barriers to participation, such as women with addiction problems, refugees and girls with challenging home lives.</p>
<p>We also learnt important lessons about improving girls’ and women’s participation in physical activity.</p>
<h4><strong>WHAT HELPED PEOPLE TO SHOW UP?</strong></h4>
<ol><li><strong>Reaching out to women and girls in spaces where they already go:</strong> To have the best chance of increasing wellbeing, the projects had to reach women and girls who were not already participating in this sort of activity. For some projects this meant partnering with schools, and encouraging teachers to refer girls who were reluctant to take part in PE. Others, such as The Venture Trust, used different referral partners. And some got to know girls in places where they already hung out – chatting about the project at the local chippy, for example. </li>
<li><strong>Making sure advertising wasn’t ‘aspirational’:</strong> KA Leisure found that using stock images to advertise their activity was off-putting, as potential participants felt intimidated and like they would not fit in. Once they swapped to including local girls in their recruitment flyers, numbers increased. </li>
<li><strong>Not leading with physical activity:</strong> Some of the projects didn’t do any physical activity during the first session. Instead they focused on socialising, introducing increasing amounts of physical activity over time. </li>
</ol><h4><strong>WHAT HELPED PEOPLE COME BACK?</strong></h4>
<ol><li><strong>Trusted relationships:</strong> Qualitative feedback overwhelming stressed the importance of building trust both within the group, and with the leads. Activities were designed for participants to get to know the people running the project, as well as build friendships with each other. It seems likely that the sense of trust and belonging were both drivers of the increased sense of wellbeing. </li>
<li><strong>Providing choice:</strong> Community projects asked participants which sorts of activities they would like to try, and then found the staff and equipment to cater for it. Where there were single sports on offer, organisations provided taster sessions so that people could see if the activity was for them. </li>
<li><strong>Making it ok to miss a session: </strong>The project leads also recognised that many participants had busy and complicated lives. Many traditional physical activity or sports courses require upfront payments and minimum attendance: this can be very off putting for people whose circumstances, such as illness, shift work or family responsibilities, make it difficult to plan ahead. Although most of the sessions operated in weekly ‘blocks’, project staff make it clear that if they had to miss classes it wouldn’t mean they had ‘dropped out’: they would be welcomed whenever they could make it.</li>
</ol><h4><strong>WHAT HELPED PEOPLE STAY?</strong></h4>
<ol><li><strong>Integrating the family: </strong>Projects worked with participants to identify the barriers that normally prevented them from taking part regularly, and worked around them. Bike for Good, for example, made it clear that young children were welcome too, which made it easier for parents to take part. </li>
<li><strong>Providing next steps: </strong>Projects took a personalised approach to working out what progress looked like. For some, it was steadily increasing the number of sessions participants attended, or thinking about how they could integrate the skills they had learned into everyday life. For others it was taking on a volunteering role within the project or doing a leadership qualification. </li>
<li><strong>Confidence:</strong> The clearest link between wellbeing and sustained activity was evidenced through participants’ increased confidence. Projects that focused on creating a nurturing environment in which people were treated as individuals saw the biggest wellbeing gains. </li>
</ol></div>