Active NoW

Active NoW

Active NoW: Physical activity referrals across Norfolk and Waveney

Active NoW provides a simplified method for healthcare professionals to connect people to physical activity opportunities that can improve their health and wellbeing.

The programme supports inactive adults, people living with long-term health conditions and those experiencing the greatest health inequalities across Norfolk and Waveney. Working with healthcare partners and local activity providers, Active NoW makes it easier for people to access safe, inclusive and appropriate physical activity close to home.

By embedding physical activity within health and social care, Active NoW helps people manage existing conditions, improve their mental wellbeing and build healthier habits for the future. The programme forms part of a wider shift towards prevention, reducing pressure on health services while helping more people live active, independent lives.

Hear how referrals to Your Health Norfolk exercise classes have benefited multiple residents in the area through Active NoW referrals.

Your Health Case Study

The Social Return on Investment analysis shows £22.45 of wellbeing value and £1.55 of system value for every £1 invested into Active NoW. Together, this demonstrates a robust, evidence-based approach delivering meaningful and sustained health outcomes.

Active NoW has delivered measurable impact since launching in January 2023. It effectively reaches priority populations, with 21% of referrals from Core20 groups, rising to as much as 50% in more deprived areas. Referrals are strongly embedded within primary care, with 57% of referrals coming through GP practices, with 30% also coming via hospitals.

Since launching in 2023, Active NoW has supported thousands of people across Norfolk and Waveney to become more active and improve their health.

Impact highlights of Active NoW

69%

of participants referred have proceeded to take part in regular physical activity after the programme has ended.

14,000+ referrals

received, helping inactive adults and people with long-term conditions access opportunities to be active.

Targeting inequalities

has been effective. Notably, 27% identify as having a disability, over 60% are aged 55+, and 61% are female.

View the latest impact report

Looking ahead: Our future plans for Active NoW

We want to continue connecting those that can benefit the most to activity through Active NoW, so we will:

• Continue to work with the Norfolk and Suffolk ICB and Norfolk County Council Public Health to maintain referrals, open new pathways and explore new opportunities.

• Continue to enable the health and social care workforce to have conversations with patients about physical activity and being more informed on the benefits of Active NoW.

• Continue to advocate for the benefits of physical activity across the health and social care system, working with partners to focus on prevention, personalised care, and reducing pressure on services.

• Working with our Active Communities Officers, continue to adopt an asset based community development approach, working with local physical activity providers to grow inclusive, safe and accessible activity within our communities.

Get in touch for more information

If you have any further questions about the Active NoW programme, please get in touch with our Senior Partnerships Officer Amy.

Please note, if you are waiting on a referral, you will need to contact your GP directly.

[email protected]
+441603217715

Active NoW: Physical activity referrals across Norfolk and Waveney

Looking ahead: Our future plans for Active NoW

Get in touch for more information

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