Exercise Referral Scheme

Over the last two years, the Exercise Referral Scheme has supported over 7,700 individuals with the aim to increase their physical activity levels, improve physical and mental wellbeing and have better management of their medical condition.

As adults, we should be aiming to be active for 2 ½ hours every week, however living with a medical condition can often make this harder. The Exercise Referral scheme supports individuals to slowly build up their movement, have better management of their condition and encourages simple healthier lifestyle choices.

Benefits of physical activity:

Have better physical health
Feel happier
Have more energy
Feel relaxed and less stressed
Make new friendships
Create active memories with family and friends

Exercise Referral participant (Charnwood) said:

"The staff and other participants are really friendly and I really look forward to going each week. The muscles in my legs are stronger, I'm walking better and I've lost weight!"

Exercise Referral participant (Rutland) said:

"The exercise class has been a great way to make friends and workout at the same time. I've built a lot more self confidence since joining the scheme and have become more active in day to day life".

Who can take part?

The scheme offers individuals aged 16+ who are currently inactive (doing less than 30 minutes of physical activity per week) and living with a medium or high risk medical condition to 12 weeks of community or leisure centre-based activity at discounted rates.

Each patient is provided with a specific programme tailored to their condition and is supervised by a minimum of a Level 3 Exercise Referral qualified instructor (medium risk patients) or a Level 4 condition specific instructor (high risk patients).

Eligible medical conditions:

Overweight/Obesity – BMI 25+
Hypertension – 140-179/90-110
High Cholesterol – Readings 6.5mmol/1
Depression, Stress and/or Anxiety – mild to moderate
Type I/II Diabetes
Neurological conditions
Respiratory e.g. Asthma
Rheumatoid Arthritis/Osteoarthritis
Osteopenia/ Osteoporosis
Back Pain
Cardiovascular
Falls Prevention
COPD

Please note not all districts will offer provision for all medical conditions listed but where possible will signpost to appropriate activity for the individual's needs.

How can I be referred?

If you are interested in the Exercise Referral Scheme or feel you would benefit from the scheme, please contact your local GP or other healthcare professional to be referred to your local coordinator.

For general information on the offer in your local district please contact your relevant Scheme Co-ordinator: