Feasibility study: Physical activity referral scheme (version 1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Feasibility study: An evidence-informed, co-developed physical activity referral scheme
IRAS ID
209923
Contact name
Paula M Watson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Liverpool John Moores University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 31 days
Research summary
The benefits of regular physical activity (PA) are well documented and have been proven to elicit substantial health benefits, particularly for inactive individuals. Yet the majority of UK adults are physically inactive. Lifestyle interventions aimed at enhancing PA levels represent a non-invasive and potentially cost-effective tool for disease prevention. There are over 600 exercise referral schemes (ERSs) in operation across the UK. The clinical effectiveness of these schemes is somewhat equivocal. This is thought to be in part due to a lack of evidence underpinning the development of such schemes. Furthermore, due to the limited effectiveness evidence, the UK National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) have recommended that ERSs should only be funded to promote PA that collect evaluation data and are underpinned by behaviour change components.
The primary aim of this study is to test the feasibility of a novel, PA referral scheme that is underpinned by evidence and behaviour change components. The scheme has been developed in partnership with service users, practitioners and commissioners to ensure it meets the needs of the local community. The target population of the scheme are adults who are inactive and have a health-related risk factor. The scheme will consist of 12 weeks of PA behaviour change support and follow-up contact at 18 weeks. Rather than focussing on gym-based activities and classes, the scheme will support participants to incorporate PA into their daily lives. Some may choose to achieve this through formal exercise sessions, whereas others may focus on improving walking, or becoming more active at home.
This feasibility study will allow the delivery of the intervention to be explored, teething problems to be overcome, and potential intervention effects to be tested. Staff and participants will be interviewed to explore the intervention's acceptability and potential improvements. Results will inform a controlled trial.
REC name
Wales REC 4
REC reference
16/WA/0231
Date of REC Opinion
15 Aug 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion