Sport, recreation and public health

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The myriad benefits of physical activity for health are well documented. Greater levels of activity lead to significant benefits in tackling a wide range of common diseases, for people of all ages. Sport and physical recreation have a broad appeal, are inexpensive to deliver, and can bring about lasting improvement for individuals of every age and background. It is clear that there can be no effective strategy for public health which does not promote and facilitate sport and physical recreation.
 
Background 
  • In 2011 the Government introduced the Health and Social Care Bill, promising to put local communities at the heart of public health.
  • Proposals included the creation of a new public health body to channel funding to communities, and Health and Wellbeing Boards to facilitate coordination between local stakeholders.
  • The Government also unveiled the Responsibility Deal, aiming to bring together industry and government to incentivize individuals to live healthier lifestyles.
Status
  • The Alliance responded to the Government’s public health consultations by calling for:
  1. A holistic approach to public health which recognises the importance of sport and recreation
  2. County Sport Partnerships to be represented on all Health and Wellbeing Boards
  3. Physical activity to be considered a key indicator of public health
  • The submissions draw attention to the wealth of evidence pointing to the benefits of physical activity and make the case for sport and physical recreation to be at the heart of the national strategy
  • The responses highlighted positive examples of member organisations, including initiatives by the Amateur Swimming Association, the Ramblers and British Cycling.
Actions
  • The Alliance continues to engage with the Department of Health and stakeholders such as the Physical Activity Alliance to ensure that the promotion of sport and recreation are at the heart of public health policy
  • The Alliance will provide opportunities for members to share knowledge and experiences about operating within the public health framework.

For more information please contact Simon Butler.

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