Helping people with long-term health conditions get active

As part of Sport England‘s work with the Richmond Group of Charities they’re funding a series of pilot projects designed to significantly improve the quality of life for this large group of people.

Around 30% of the population in England have at least one long-term health issue, but increased physical activity can help manage chronic conditions such as coronary heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer and obesity.

Former secondary school teacher Liam Stapleton found exercise a great help after suffering a stroke on Christmas Day in 2014.

He was left unable to speak or move the right side of his body but has since made a remarkable recovery and now regularly competes in running events.

“I got into fitness following my stroke quite unexpectedly,” he explained. “After eight weeks of exercise I was a new man with muscular arms, 50% lower on my body fat, and the most flexible I had ever been.

“Getting here and improving my fitness has not been an easy road, but my life has completely changed for the better.”

Removing barriers 

Age UK, Alzheimer’s Society, Breast Cancer Now, British Lung Foundation, MS Society, Rethink Mental Illness and Diabetes UK will join the Stroke Association in conducting projects to identify and challenge the barriers to activity that people face.

“Exercising when you have a long-term health condition can be hugely beneficial to your mental and physical wellbeing but it can also be daunting,” said Jennie Price, our chief executive.

“We have chosen to work with the leading health charities to help people get active, because the charities already have the confidence of the people living with long-term health conditions.

“Together we want to help people answer those questions they might have about which activities are suitable, or how much exercise they should do for example. This has real potential to help people lead happy, healthier lives.”

Check out Sport England’s website here.