Northumberland’s doorstep delivery of health and wellbeing
12 Mar 2025
A new initiative that delivers health and wellbeing activities directly to residents in their own neighbourhoods is set to make Northumberland one of the fittest places to live in the UK.
The Healthy Communities Programme is a partnership between Northumberland County Council and Places Leisure which aims to remove barriers to participation in health and fitness activities.
Northumberland County Councillor Jeff Watson, Cabinet Member for Promoting Healthy Lives, said: “Health and wellbeing impacts every aspect of our lives, so we want to make it easy for residents to participate in activities that boost their physical and mental health.
“A recent health audit identified what stops people from taking part, such as location of leisure centres and transport, along with poor mental health.
“By taking our community-centred programme beyond the walls of leisure centres and onto residents’ doorsteps, via a specially kitted-out vehicle we can address issues such as preventable illness, fitness, isolation and loneliness.
”Over recent years, the council has invested £74 million into its leisure provision, including the development of new leisure centres and the refurbishment of existing facilities.
“This fabulous initiative aligns with the council's commitment to enhance fun and engaging health and wellbeing opportunities - by helping residents to leap over any stumbling blocks in their way.”
Paul Metcalfe, Contracts Manager for Places Leisure said: “It is vital that we work together to provide more opportunities for people to get active whether that is within our centres or out in the community. As part of the Healthy Communities Programme, we will be providing two specially equipped vehicles and have dedicated colleagues from our Healthy Communities team who will deliver 60 hours of community-centred activities per week designed to cater for all age groups and abilities.
“The new vehicles will allow our colleagues to deliver these activities in communities across the county including in areas which are typically more difficult to reach.. This community-centred approach will help to close the inequalities gap and broaden access for all.
“In addition, a range of specialist services will be available to support people with long term conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, musculoskeletal issues and anxiety and depression.
“The initiative is off to a great start with initial delivery focusing on using exercise to support and improve healthy living for people with Parkinson’s disease.
“We look forward to delivering the programme and seeing the difference it can make to communities throughout Northumberland.”