The successful health referral programme, Be Active is reporting record numbers of younger people being referred onto the scheme. DC Leisure is one of the partners delivering Be Active in its three centres at Alfreton, Heanor and Ripley. The scheme enables health professionals throughout Amber Valley to refer patients with medical conditions to activity sessions that will help to improve their health through physical activity.
A recent evaluation report into the scheme identified that the percentage of referrals by age has dramatically changed over the last 18 months with 100% increase in the number of people under the age of 45 being referred, which has now become highest referred category.
Jackie Goacher, Contract Manager for DC Leisure which operates Alfreton, Ripley and Heanor Leisure Centres said, “We are very proud to deliver the Be Active scheme which really makes a difference to peoples lives. The aim of the programme is to help people of all ages to change their lifestyles, provide advice and support and manage medical conditions.
Each client agrees a 20 week physical activity programme with their instructor, the research shows that it is far more beneficial for them to remain for the full 20 weeks and beyond to ensure there is a marked improvement in their condition. In virtually every area the improvement was at least double in the second 10 weeks sessions opposed to the first 10 weeks. To encourage this everyone completing their 20 sessions is given an Amber Card free of charge for a 12 month period ensuring that they benefit from discounted activity rates and continue exercising.”
Be Active is run by Amber Valley Primary Care Trust in partnership with Amber Valley Borough Council and has just secured funding for a fourth year. This will ensure the continuation of the programme which supports the Council’s healthier communities strategic objective. If you think you could benefit from physical activity to improve your health and well being ask your GP about the scheme to see if you qualify.
ENDS
Note to Editors
Amber Valley Borough Council and DC Leisure Management Ltd are working in partnership to provide leisure centre services in Alfreton, Heanor and Ripley. In April 2006 Amber Valley Borough Council entered into a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) agreement with DC Leisure Management Ltd. Under the agreement, DC Leisure Management Ltd will transform the Council's leisure centres in Alfreton, Heanor and Ripley and manage them for up to 32 years. The project has attracted more than £15 million pounds worth of Private Finance Initiative (PFI) credits from Central Government. A PFI Initiative involves a public sector organisation entering into a partnership with a private sector organisation to deliver a service to higher standards and with greater investment than either could deliver individually. These partnerships are made possible through financial support from Central Government.
News release issued on behalf of Esther Horsley, Marketing Officer for DC Leisure Management Ltd (01773 834817)
