Strengthening community provision for people with long-term conditions

Using local insight data, best practice guidance, and tailored support, providers were supported to provide more inclusive, confident pathways into physical activity. By sharing evidence from Active Lives, Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA), and falls data along side insight from We are Undefeatable (WAU) we supported organisations to better understand local needs and barriers. The approach improved provider confidence, enhanced offer quality, and increased participation among groups who are often underrepresented. This collaborative model strengthens preventative care and helps reduce inequalities in physical activity.

Energise Me is a charity that champions physical activity for all in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Its goal is to create a happier, healthier and stronger future for local people by supporting people to have the confidence, support and opportunity to be active on their own terms. Its work is helping people to reduce their risk of major illnesses and depression. It is one of 42 Active Partnerships who work with partners to create an active nation.

People with long-term conditions often face significant barriers to being active, including confidence, access, and suitability of existing provision. Many community providers want to support these groups but lack the insight, training, or understanding needed to design safe, inclusive offers. A coordinated approach was required to help providers understand local need and deliver activity that meets the needs of individuals with LTCs.

• Energise Me shared insight data (Active Lives, JSNA, local falls and LTC data, WAU) to highlight need and participation barriers. 
• Provided best practice guidance on behaviour change, inclusive communication, and designing welcoming, safe environments. 
• Worked directly with providers to adapt sessions, strengthen pathways, and build confidence in working with LTC populations. 
• Facilitated learning networks to encourage ongoing collaboration and shared problem-solving.

• Providers report increased confidence in engaging people with LTCs. 
• Improved quality and inclusivity of local activity provision.
• Increased participation among groups who were previously less active.

• Continued insight sharing and updated evidence provided through Energise Me.
• Ongoing training and development sessions for providers.
• Integration of inclusive practice by providers when undertaking planning and programme design.
• Development of a cross-partnership working.

• Data becomes powerful when translated into practical, actionable insight for providers.
• Providers value simple, confidence-building guidance on working with people with LTCs.
• Collaboration between sectors strengthens system-wide impact.
• Sustained change is achieved when providers have ongoing support.

Emily Khural, Health Manager, Energise Me, [email protected]

We Can Be Active Insight - How physically active are we? - Energise Me