£312,000 award to spur Derbyshire residents into physical activity

Residents across Derbyshire are being spurred into getting more physically active after the county council approved funding of £312,000.

The award to Active Partners Trust (APT) over three years comes on the back of findings that people have developed an appetite for exercise despite the limits of lockdown.

APT oversees the delivery of physical activity programmes under the Active Derbyshire partnership which works closely with the council to increase the levels of physical activity among young people and adults.

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Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for health and communities Councillor Carol Hart said: “We’re pleased to award this funding and continue our investment in Active Derbyshire to encourage residents to get more involved in physical activity across the county.

“The benefits of an active lifestyle shouldn’t be underestimated. Physical activity can help treat and prevent diseases and improve the health of those with chronic conditions.”

A report by Sport England has found that during the coronavirus crisis there has been a change in attitudes towards physical activity.

The report highlighted how the Government’s guidance around daily exercise had a positive effect with 53% of adults agreeing that they had been encouraged to exercise during the pandemic. In addition 44% of adults took part in online fitness classes or did their own workouts at home.

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Coun Hart added: “The coronavirus pandemic has created a window of opportunity to engage with our communities and promote the benefits of physical activity.

“Despite rules on social distancing and self-isolation, there appears to be a new appetite for exercise across the country whether that’s walking, cycling or jogging.

“This new funding can help build on that participation right here in Derbyshire by making use of the fantastic outdoor spaces we have on our doorstep.”

Since February 2018 Active Derbyshire, through council funding, has made a number of physical activity initiatives including:

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• Making physical activity and exercise daily practice in Derbyshire schools including encouraging a mile-a-day type activities

• Supporting the council’s Physical Activity and Sports Action Grants programme